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When and where did you first sail?
When I was about six weeks old, I sailed onboard my grandfather's boat with my family in Burnham-on-Crouch, Essex.
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What has been your proudest sailing moment?
I think it would be finishing my first Volvo Ocean Race in 2006 – we went through a lot and finished as a great team with a good result.
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Can you recall your scariest moment at sea?
Without a doubt, it was losing someone over the side.
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In 3 words, summarise your role on the boat?
Driver, Trimmer, Team-player.
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What do you miss most when you are at sea?
Not so much what… but whom - María, my fiancée.
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How are you enjoying life in Abu Dhabi?
Abu Dhabi has been a great place to spend the winter. Great weather and sailing conditions as well as plenty of entertainment going on.
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Best Abu Dhabi moment?
We have had a great winter of training and sailing. On a personal level though it is probably finishing the Abu Dhabi International Triathlon.
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What do you think visitors to Abu Dhabi can expect when the yachts come in on New Year's day?
Based on the other events I've seen there I'm sure Abu Dhabi will put on one amazing show!
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Which leg of the race are you most excited about and why?
Leg 1, from Alicante to Cape Town is always very exciting. It is the first leg of the race and everyone will be anxious to see how we will perform against the rest of the fleet. There is always a good mix of conditions and challenges and it usually gives a good indicator as to whether you have prepared for the race well and if you are competitive.
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Who is your sailing inspiration?
I'm not sure if I could pin it down to one person… I have been lucky to sail with lots of good guys throughout my career which has motivated and inspired me to pursue my goals.
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Are there any 'home comforts' that you'll be sneaking on board?
Sadly, there isn't much room for home comforts on board; I can usually find space for my i-pod though, usually loaded up with some good music and a bit of comedy too…
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What's the first thing you'll do when you reach port after each leg?
I guess that depends on what the team has in store for us – last race it was a medical and a blood test! Personally, I'd rather have some good food and a cold drink.
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Do you have any tips for budding young sailors who are keen to get started?
This is a tough race to get involved in so you have to be prepared to get your hands dirty and work hard! Sailing is a sport that rewards experience so the more you can get the better.
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What would you have done if you hadn't been a sailor?
Before I decided to sail full time I was studying to be a lawyer. On reflection I am happy with the choice I made.
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How will you prepare for the race? (exercise/food/sleep)
As a team we will be doing a lot of sailing, testing and development in the months leading up to the race. The racing will be tough though so right now; I am focused on getting as strong and fit as possible.
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How important is winning to you?
Winning is of course important, ultimately it is what you get measured by. But the journey is as important, as well as what you learn along the way.
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How will you keep morale high if you experience any difficulties. How will you keep everyone focused/entertained?
Everyone involved in this race is always very focused and professional, when the going gets tough though a level head and a good sense of humour always come in handy.
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What is the best piece of advice you have been given about the race i.e. 'look after the boat and it will look after you'?
I've been lucky to have been given a lot of good advice along the way! I'm not sure what the best bit is – it's all been really useful.
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What would we find under your bunk?
If past experience is anything to go by it will be a load of spare parts, stacked up, usually making the bunk un-comfy!