Involved in ocean racing as a teenager and competing regularly as crew in all the Australian Blue Water Classics, Mark first became part of the wooden boat community 25 years ago with the purchase of the 1964 Sparkman and Stevens designed 'Cotton Blossom'. His romance with classic boats established, it was the purchase of his second boat, the 1956 Philip Rhodes designed 'Fair Winds' in Auckland that found him with a seaworthy vessel ready for the demands of both adventure and racing. Thousands of miles and many ocean crossings and races later, Mark also talks about the deep bond and lifelong friendships that you develop with your crew, especially when you sail together for decades. Visit Ocean Sailing Podcast for offshore sailing opportunities and podcast extras and follow us on Facebook.