In this episode of San Diego Argonauts Radio, Jess Atkinson talks with Brad Read, back-to-back 2025 and 2026 DF95 National Champion, about improving race performance, simplifying boat setup, and building a strong local fleet.
Also available on Apple Podcasts:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/2x-national-df-95-champion-brad-reads-tips-on-moving/id1874110517?i=1000795903813
Brad’s first recommendation is time with the transmitter in your hands. Practicing mark roundings helps develop depth perception, judge laylines, and avoid crowded situations at the windward mark. He also discusses consistent rig settings, adjusting forestay tension, sailing with flatter sails as the breeze builds, and understanding sail twist.
The conversation covers how Newport’s radio sailing community grew during the pandemic and the value of having experienced sailors teach newer fleet members. Brad credits the Argonauts and Jon Rogers’ clinics as an example Newport has drawn from, emphasizing that helping others improve, and keeping racing fun, benefit the whole fleet. Jess and Brad also look ahead to the 2027 DF95 National Championship in San Diego.
Dan Schreier closes the episode with a Region 6 update, including the IOM regional championship and DF95 Nationals in Texas, parts availability, and ways clubs and individual sailors can help grow radio sailing through the AMYA.