Gay – A person who is emotionally, romantically or sexually attracted to members of the same gender. Men, women and non-binary people may use this term to describe themselves. – Human Rights Campaign
Age/Name/Years on the water/ location
22/Alejandro Carriazo/My whole life
What was the first boat you ever sailed? What was the experience like?
Hobie Cat Getaway. I had never sailed but always dreamed of it. I spent countless hours reading and watching videos to learn as much as I could. One day I had enough of virtual sailing and decided to rent a sailboat. I remember pushing off and thinking, “I better know what I’m doing cause if not, I won’t be able to bring the boat back.” Needless to say, I figured it out after a few failed tacks and I caught the sailing bug… never going back.
What about your first race? What kind of boat did you sail, what was the experience like?
First race was aboard a Navy 44 with one of my sailing mentors. Barely any wind meant we were going a whopping 1.5-2 knots… how fun! I am more of a cruiser but a little friendly racing never hurt!
What are you currently doing within the sport? IE teaching, cruising the world, racing etc. Tell us about your current/planned adventure.
I am in the U.S. Navy so mostly driving big ships to ensure we protect freedom of navigation. Best job in the world! I do a bit of teaching in Annapolis but it’s all within the academy.
What made you fall in love with sailing?
The freedom of moving around with nothing but the wind. There is nothing like setting your sails and shutting your engine.. picking up speed as the boat gets quiet. The waves slapping the hull, the wind in your face, and the occasional wave over the bow make it for an unforgettable and indescribable experience. Words can never do sailing any justice. Go out sailing but beware, it’s addicting!
What is/was your favorite boat to sail on, and why?
My 1980 Hunter 36 Cherubini of course! Crazy how I went from sailing a Hobie Cat to a 7 ton monohull solo!
What is your biggest achievement in sailing? This can be anything from buying a boat, to rebuilding the engine to your first major race/cruise.
Buying a boat at 20 years old with my own money was something I never thought would be possible. I have gained confidence doing maintenance and I do all the work on the boat myself, from fiberglass, to diesel repairs, sail maintenance, and everything in between! Plus, it saves me a lot of money… which I spend on the boat anyway.
What would you like to tell inexperienced/younger sailors or someone on the fence with trying?
Three, two, one… I’m sailing!!! Just go for it. What is holding you back from embarking on an incredible journey? Meet people who have sailboats and ask them to take you out. We all love sharing the sailing experience.
What’s something you would like to impart on veteran sailors?
I’m too young and inexperienced. But to all the sailors that have mentored me, A HUGE THANK YOU! I wouldn’t be here without your guidance!
What do you like to do when ashore and not working on sailing things? IE biking, cooking, scrapbooking, gardening etc.
I bought a boat because I sacrificed having a car
How do you identify? Anything else you would like others to know about you? Website/FB link to share? An interesting fact about you?
Gay Man.