Sailing Sensation

Wisconsin native Sally Barkow races to the finish.

PHOTO: BOB GRIESER/PPL

Winner of the prestigious Rolex Yachtswoman of the Year award in 2005, Sally Barkow is the skipper of Team 7 Sailing’s Yngling class sailboat. A full-time racer on the quest for an Olympic gold medal, Barkow calls Nashotah, Wis., home. Fresh off a victory at the 2007 Princess Sofia Trophy race in Spain, Barkow took some time out to tell us what she loves about her hometown.

What is it about Wisconsin that keeps you there?
Family is high on the list. Without their support I could not have this life. I enjoy spending time with them no matter how cold and icy the winter. Also, I think summers in Wisconsin on the lake are hard to find elsewhere.

What has been the highlight of your career thus far?
It is hard to pinpoint just one, but winning the college national championship [for Old Dominion University] is very close to the top, along with winning the first Rolex Women’s Keelboat championship. Both were tough events that pushed my team and me beyond our expectations.

Where are your top five Milwaukee-area places to sail, water ski or do other water activities?
1. PINE LAKE: It may not be best for sailing, but it has its challenges that taught me lessons I use everyday.  
2. LAKE GENEVA: Great sailing, especially when the wind is blowing from the east or west.  
3. LAKE MICHIGAN (South Shore Yacht Club and Milwaukee Yacht Club): The open water makes you feel as if you are completely free.  
4. PEWAUKEE LAKE: This is the best lake for socializing.  
5. BEAVER LAKE: This lake has the clearest bright blue water!