Sailor Profile: Chips Howarth (GBR)
- 2001 Musto Skiff European Champion
Here is a Q&A that was completed by MUSTO Skiff 2001 European Champion CHIPS HOWARTH.
What got you into the MUSTO Skiff class?
I was working for the mast supplier, I had been heavily involved in the final development of the boat and loved sailing it during the development. Colin Goodman and I were nearly arrested for ‘kiting it’ up the Hamble River at 15kts during the development! (spinnakers have since been banned from the Hamble River since that incident… an MUSTO Skiff claim to fame that not many people know!).
What have you sailed previously?
Cadet, 470, 420, Enterprise, RS200, B14, GP14, Merlin Rocket, Melges 24, J24, Albacore, Lark, Ultra 30, Fireball, Laser 5000, Laser 4000.
How old, tall and heavy are you?
I am now 38, when I won the MUSTO Skiff Europeans, I was 29, weighed 68kg and 5’10”. I was too light and short!
How much training did you do in the MUSTO Skiff in the year prior to the nationals win?
My training was just loads of ‘on the water’ time at HISC beating the RS700s. The Class was new and a boat handling edge was the key.
Did you do any specific training exercises to improve your boatspeed & handling?
Loads of sailing, focussed on maximising my short leverage, I also think I was more raked than everyone else, I did this to de power but it looks like this has become the fast set up over time… I like to think I was a pioneer!
What were your rig settings (Rake, tensions (shroud & lowers) spreaders (length & deflection))?
Not a clue!
What did it feel like to lift the trophy at the prize giving?
It felt absolutely brilliant as the fleet has some great names (Rich Stenhouse, the Sibello Brothers… currently raked No 1 in 49er, Colin Goodman etc..), to win on Lake Garda and receive the trophy from the great Luca Devoti was a very proud moment.
Do you have any sponsors?
At the time, Selden Masts who still make a great product for the MUSTO Skiff.
What other hobbies do you have?
I now do fell running and mountain biking, I am now at the back of these fleets!
Are you married / have any kids?
Married with two kids, (ages 3 & 5), that slows you down a lot!
What is your favourite band/music?
Oasis, Stereophonics… I am a bit ‘90’s Brit pop!
What’s your favourite food?
Can’t beat seafood in Portugal, there are not enough regattas in Portugal.
What is your day job?
Sales & Marketing Director of Oceanair, a blind manufacturer for boats, super yachts and super homes.
