ISSUE 11 WINTER 2020
GOOdspeed THE TRADEWIND MAGAZINE
I N S I DE
SHEER PHYSICS VERMONT’S RENOUN SKIS
AGAINST THE WIND
ST. BARTH SAILOR’S ATLANTIC CROSSINGS
GEAR UP
WHAT TO PACK ON YOUR NEXT ADVENTURE
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LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
Gearing Up for 2020 AS WITH ANY NEW YEAR ,
there comes a resurgence of optimism and motivation. “This year, I will do all that I didn’t the year before and I’ll maintain that positive intention throughout the year,”—so says, well, everyone. For me, however, the best thing about a new year is the idea that you get to reset the clock, in a manner of speaking. The things I wish I had done more of (or less of) can be things I set myself toward completing this year, and I don’t mean eating less sugar, though Lord knows I should. This year, I prefer to make more active resolutions, taking inspiration from some of our destinations’ athletic gogetters profiled in this issue. From St. Barth Sailor’s Miguel Danet, whose numerous transatlantic crossings are not just remarkable for their physical
feat, but perhaps even more so for their utter fulfillment of his passion; to Vermonter Cyrus Schenck of Renoun’s ingenious application of a polymer to skis to create an adaptable surface with nothing but the pure intention of improving the ski experience; and even our own David and Eric Zipkin, whose annual push to train and ski super challenging terrain as a means of truly disconnecting. It’s their devotion to doing what they love and serving as an inspiration to others that is the ultimate expression of a resolution. And though lofty to go from zero to 60 in just one year, I’m also compelled to focus on the idea of doing what you love and doing it in a manner that encourages others. Statistics claim that gym attendance is up 50% in January and then starts to wane back to normal numbers around late February. This year, I vow not to be a typical gym-goer statistic and instead pursue and push myself in my own physical passions of skiing, sailing and yoga with a commitment that endures, at least through June, and in the meantime continue to be inspired by those around me, forever learning, admiring and maybe, just maybe, following their lead. Cheers to a new decade! MEG NOLAN | mnolan@flytradewind.com | @megnolanvr
LETTER FROM THE FOUNDERS
Winter is coming Welcome to the latest installment of Goodspeed! As we write this, winter has returned to the Northeast in full force and we are anxious to exercise our skis. Tradewind’s fleet is an ideal way to whisk away from one adventure to another. We welcome our return to Stowe this winter (pray for snow!) and are continually excited about the growth of our Citation Jet fleet. On the topic of excitement, we are pleased to announce a new destination to our scheduled offerings: Newport, RI. Mirroring our wildly successful service to Nantucket and Martha’s Vineyard, Tradewind’s service to Newport will allow you to easily depart from our private terminal in White Plains, skip several hours of I-95 traffic and land right in the heart of Newport.
Photo: Christian Oth
Newport has always been associated with sailing, which brings us to the St. Barths Bucket Regatta: 2020 marks yet another year of Tradewind’s participation, which gives us great pride. Explore, dream, discover—and we look forward to welcoming you aboard again soon. ERIC ZIPKIN | ezipkin@flytradewind.com DAVID ZIPKIN | dzipkin@flytradewind.com FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM
@goodspeedmag and @flytradewind
DESTINATION LEGEND:
ACK = NANTUCKET
ANU = ANTIGUA
AXA = ANGUILLA
HPN = WESTCHESTER
MVY = MARTHA’S VINEYARD
SBH = ST. BARTHS
SJU = SAN JUAN
TEB = TETERBORO
PAGE 2 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
MVL = STOWE, VT
ISSUE 11 WINTER 2020
GOOdspeed THE TRADEWIND MAGAZINE
TabLE of
COntents Flight Plan
Control Tower
6
The Hangar
30 16
T H E L AT E S T A N D G R E AT E S T IN EACH OF OUR DISTINCT D E S T I N AT I O N S ......................... 6 Indulging in the Chef’s Experience at Jarad at Le Toiny; Best Reads of 2019; Gear for Every Adventure; Jewels from Bleecker & Prince
H I G H F LY E R ............................. 16
S E E K T H E P E A K S .................... 26
St. Barths’ Enguerrand Espinassou
The rewards of heli-skiing, as told by the Zipkin brothers
S H E E R P H Y S I C S ...................... 18 Vermont’s Cyrus Schenck
A G A I N S T T H E W I N D .. ............. 30
B L U E C R U S H .......................... 23
St. Barth Sailor Miguel Danet competes in the Transat AG2R for the third time
St. Barths’ Tessa Thyssen
In Every Issue C H A R T E R A C O U R S E ................4
H I D D E N H AV E N S .................... 34
S U N D O W N E R S ........................ 40
Mustique, St. Vincent & The Grenadines
Great Rock Bight Preserve | MVY
Elvis’ Beach Bar | AXA
C A L E N D A R .............................. 14
V E C T O R ................................... 36
Not-to-miss events in our destinations
Tradewind’s routes and current happenings
Goodspeed magazine is published quarterly in partnership between Meg Nolan, Will Attend LLC and Tradewind Aviation. | EDITOR: Meg Nolan DESIGN: Ann Zipkin | ann-design | AD SALES: advertising@flytradewind.com | Cover illustration: Steve Thomas, www.startdesignco.com WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 3
CHARTER a COURSE TOUCAN HILL, MUSTIQUE, ST. VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES
IF EVER THERE WERE A PRIVATE ISLAND TO EXUDE EXCLUSIVITY ,
it would be Mustique, made world famous by frequent royal visitor and homeowner Princess Margaret Windsor. Purchased by Lord Glenconner Colin Tennant in 1958 with zero infrastructure and a name that bore evidence to its most populous inhabitant (Mustique comes from moustique, the French word for mosquito), the island’s initial endeavor was to become a booming cotton plantation. Alas, the cotton didn’t hold and in 1968 Tennant formed the Mustique Company, establishing home plots for his wealthy friends, and friends of friends, who sought a tropical hideaway that ensured privacy. Led by Swedish architect and British set designer Oliver Messel, Mustique Company’s various home plots offered their eccentric owners (rock stars, socialites, private entrepreneurs) tremendous freedom to build the home of their dreams while using their investment in turn to help cover infrastructure costs. One such incredible home is that of Tatiana and Gerret Copeland, 30-year visitors to the island, which sits proudly on the highest point of the island and is known as Toucan Hill. Conceived entirely from the vision of philanthropist-businesswoman Tatiana Copeland, whose
PAGE 4 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
temerity and perseverance were essential for the home’s initial construction, Toucan Hill is every bit the marvel Mrs. Copeland originally intended. Drawing upon her love for the Moorish architecture of southern Spain’s Alhambra and the folktales of 1001 Arabian Nights, mixed with the termiteand sun-laden environment’s demand for a concrete structure, Toucan Hill is a determined departure from the norm of modern box-like construction. Its many arches, colorfully painted columns, fountains and Moroccan and Turkish pearl-inlaid and silver furnishings create an ambiance that is decidedly otherworldly, which is just what she intended. “I don’t want this to feel like anywhere else,” Mrs. Copeland explained. “I want people to visit and feel as though they’re somewhere completely different from their everyday, so they can really relax and disconnect.” Her husband Gerret emphatically agrees that there is no other place where he feels more relaxed than Toucan Hill. Despite her neighbors’ shock when she shared the initial drawings—not to mention interior designers who were too traditional to properly see through her vision—Mrs. Copeland set out to bring her
CHARTER A COURSE: MUSTIQUE
imagination to reality on her own, relying on her husband as a partner. The name is actually derived from her initials, T.C., and the idea that “one can’t, but two can,” as she says, referring to their teamwork. Beyond the intriguing design, guests are further wowed by the 360-degree hilltop view that includes both the Atlantic and the Caribbean, and ensures no room is without a full sea vista. Guests and visitors are hard pressed not to drop their jaws upon first glance at the incredible view, idyllically framed by the Moorish arches. With various sitting areas, including individual porches off each room, the ability to share the villa and yet still enjoy private moments away was an important design element for Mrs. Copeland. She was adamant during the design phase that each room be equal in size and offerings so that everyone would feel similarly indulged. The master suite, however, is tucked away from the other four bedrooms, affording the owners more privacy when they entertain and, given its decadent 24-karat-gold bed frame, it is rarely rented with the rest of the property, though there have been exceptions. With a permanent staff of seven, every whim is answered
including unpacking service upon arrival. Deemed an excellent party house by the lovely Patricia, Toucan Hill’s loyal house manager, the property lends itself well to celebrations. However, having enjoyed it during a more serene setting, we can vouch for the indulgent luxury that is a quiet candlelit dinner in the octagonal blue dining veranda, whose windows are forever open to the fresh sea breeze and whose exquisite Brazilian blue marble tile floor is almost too pretty to walk on. Whether it’s the view, the thematic design or the sheer comfort of the villa’s lofty luxury, Toucan Hill will never dull its guests, no matter how many times one is fortunate enough to visit. As such, the Ralph Waldo Emerson quote comes to mind: “Beauty without expression is boring.” LEARN MORE AT
ToucanHill.com WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 5
STYLE & CRAFT The signature style of our new favorite, New York’s Bleecker & Prince Jewelry
PAGE 6 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
FLIGHT PLAN
TEB
CLEVERLY NAMED AFTER TWO OF NEW YORK’S MOST
downtown streets, Leehe Segal’s jewelry design company, Bleecker & Prince, identifies with both the “classic soul with a bit of rugged” of Bleecker Street and the “taste for the finer aspects of life” of Prince Street. However, it’s the marriage of these two conflicting personalities that results in Segal’s eye-catching, colorful and thoughtfully modern designs. With multiple collections featuring earrings, necklaces, bracelets and rings, plus a custom design studio which starts with hand drawings and includes 3D renderings, Segal is quite busy splitting time between New York and her native Tel Aviv. Her custom designs are exquisite and feature diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, though she promises no two will ever be alike, believing wedding bands are sacred, unique and everlasting. PERSONABLE
LEARN MORE AT
bleekerandprince.com
WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 7
FLIGHT PLAN
Fireside Reads Nothing better than cozying up fireside with a good book in hand. We may suggest a glass of wine or single malt in the other hand, but ultimately it’s this list of books from 2019 that we’re most confident will keep you seated long into the night. The Testaments BY MARGARET ATWOOD
Wild Game BY ADRIENNE BRODEUR
The Body BY BILL BRYSON
Trust Exercise BY SUSAN CHOI
Catch and Kill BY RONAN FARROW
City of Girls BY ELIZABETH GILBERT
Maybe You Should Talk to Someone BY LORI GOTTLIEB
The Institute BY STEPHEN KING
The Silent Patient BY ALEX MICHAELIDES
The Starless Sea BY ERIN MORGENSTERN
Where the Crawdads Sing BY DELIA OWENS
The Dutch House BY ANN PATCHETT
The Huntress BY KATE QUINN
The Nickel Boys BY COLSON WHITEHEAD
Nothing to See Here BY KEVIN WILSON
PAGE 8 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
FLIGHT PLAN: ADVENTURE GEAR
Adventure Gear for 2020 Whether you’re heading deep into the mountains, out for an overnight camp, or just for a simple hike or swim in the islands, each of these items is sure to make the adventure more comfortable, safe and enjoyable.
BioLite Headlamp 330
Helinox Chair One
$50 | WWW.REI.COM
$100 | WWW.REI.COM
AeroPress Go
Ember Mug 2
$32 | WWW.AEROPRESS.COM
$100 | WWW.EMBER.COM
Tecnica Plasma S GTX
Garmin Fenix 6S Pro
$180 | WWW.REI.COM
$700 | WWW.GARMIN.COM
PAGE 10 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
FLIGHT PLAN
FORM Swim Goggles with Display $199 | WWW.AMAZON.COM
Yeti Boomer 8 Dog Bowl
The North Face Forecaster 35
$50 | WWW.YETI.COM
$189 | WWW.NORTHFACE.COM
For those who've arrived
Your home is more than a building or an address. It's where you experience life, connection, and growth. The real estate team you chose should be as exceptional as you are, and as your next chapter is going to be. Only one real estate brand in Puerto Rico holds the keys to your most exceptional home and life. Puerto Rico Sotheby's International Realty. Explore with us.
Puerto Rico Sotheby's International Realty 787.523.6500 info@puertoricosothebysrealty.com
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MMXIX Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC. All Rights Reserved. Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC fully supports the principles of the Fair Housing Act and the Equal Opportunity Act. Each Office is Independently Owned and WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 11 Operated. Sotheby's International Realty and the Sotheby's International Realty logo are registered (or unregistered) service marks licensed to Sotheby's International Realty Affiliates LLC.
Š
F L I G H T P L A N : J A R A D AT L E T O I N Y
SBH
Hot Seat J A R A D AT L E T O I N Y
Jarad McCarroll states matter-of-factly when questioned on how he contends with serving his refined fare and multitude of ingredients on an island where very little is grown. Expecting stories of delays and frustration as a retort, it was remarkably refreshing to have this celebrated chef (he was awarded Caribbean Chef of the Year 2020 and three toques by Gault & Millau) hold no one accountable but himself when it comes to delivering on his restaurant’s epicurean menu. His organized, diligent manner is also plain for all to see at his eponymous restaurant, Jarad at Hotel Le Toiny, particularly those lucky enough to nab one of the four counter seats that share space with the chefs’ prep area. “YOU JUST HAVE TO BE ORGANIZED,”
As the head chef of both Hotel Le Toiny’s restaurants—the popular feet-in-thesand Beach Club and the main terrace dining room—Jarad has his hands full all day long; however, his creativity and meticulous nature are most evident at night, particularly via his seven-course tasting menu, aptly titled Jarad Experience. Ranging from parmesan gnocchi to duck terrine and mahi mahi, the dishes ensure no specific meat or fish hankering is left unanswered. However, it was the two vegetable-based dishes in his menu that stood out for us. The first, called “Tree of Life,” and the second, “Our Island,” both earn PAGE 12 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
equal points for clever presentation. Tree of Life is inspired by an actual tree on his property in St. Barths, from which he has a cherished ritual of sunrise viewing with his young daughter. The second is self-evident, and its perfect St. Barths island shape is due to a plastic mold that Jarad himself sanded down to the exact fit for the intended serving bowl and its curved edges. Eager to showcase his talent to the discerning clientele of St. Barths, Jarad’s unique blend of South African upbringing, Swiss training and London-based restaurant experience is apparent. There’s the wood grill barbecue not dissimilar to the braai culture in South Africa (he even uses a scalding hot log piece to brand the yuzu dessert), the military-like precision of how kitchen orders are disseminated and acknowledged (the chorus of “yes, chef” is a constant all night) and the favoritism toward flavors such as elderflower, chive and dill. With a consistent design palette of black stone and marble in the kitchen, on the plateware and even on the waitstaff uniform, the aesthetic is decidedly sleek; however, the simple midcentury-modern wood tables and center-stage panoramic ocean view keep it rooted to its island location. He may not be local, but he’s nailed St. Barths’ signature mix of sophisticated island chic and European affinity. LEARN MORE AT
www. letoiny.com
CALIBER RM 07-01
RICHARD MILLE BOUTIQUES ASPEN BAL HARBOUR BEVERLY HILLS BOSTON BUENOS AIRES LAS VEGAS MIAMI NEW YORK ST. BARTH TORONTO VANCOUVER www.richardmille.com
CALENDAR
FEBRUARY MARCH 14–16 15 19 23
2
ANU
11–15 MVY
artha’s Vineyard 20-Miler & M Amity Island Relay
AXA
James Ronald Webster Day
J olly Harbour Valentine’s Regatta
ANU
Super Yacht Challenge
12–15
Annual Moonsplash Music Festival
19–22
St. Barths Bucket Regatta
AXA
MVL
Mardi Gras Boogaloo
SBH
MVL
Stowe Derby
Photo by Ed Whiting Photo by Marta Frederick Photo by Ed Whiting from The Blue
Photo courtesy of The Islander
PAGE 14 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
Photo courtesy of Nantucket Chamber of Commerce Photo by Jan Hein
APRIL 1–7 ANU Antigua Classic Yacht Regatta 6–7
MVL
Stowe Sugar Slalom
12–18
SBH
Les Voiles de Saint Barth
24–26
MVL
Vermont Maple Festival
24–26
ACK
Daffodil Festival
Photo by Jeff Brown
4/25 –5/1
ANU
eters and May Round P Antigua Race
Above photos by JC Greene WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 15
SAI NT BARTH KI TE ’S E NGUE RRAND E SP I NASSO U
Photo by Chloe B. Photography
PAGE 16 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
CONTROL TOWER | SAINT BARTH KITE’S ENGUERRAND ESPINASSOU
Enguerrand Espinassou’s name is the first that comes to mind when the sport of kiteboarding is even mumbled, let alone mentioned on St. Barths. Having set up shop on the lagoon of Grand Cul de Sac 17 years ago, Frenchman Enguerrand offers private stand-up paddleboarding and kiteboarding lessons ranging from 90 minutes to three hours per day. Fortunately for beginners, he is incredibly kind and patient despite his evident prowess—in 2001 he successfully completed a kite crossing from St. Barths to St. Martin—a 30km distance—in just over an hour. We caught up with the high-flying daredevil on land to ask him a few questions about his current operation and what’s next for the new decade. Where and when did you first learn to kite? I started to kiteboard in September of 1996 in France.
What’s special about kiting on St. Barths? St. Barths is a nice place for kiteboarding because we have different types of water in which to learn and hone your skills. We have flat water on our beautiful lagoon, which is ideal for freestyling. We have some of the best waves in the world at La Tortue. And last, if you like free riding and kite crossing, heading out of St. Jean Bay is perfect. All these spots are why I love teaching and riding here.
What is it about kiteboarding that makes you keep coming back for more? When you start kiting, your rate of improvement is so high, and that feels great. There’s so much to learn. There’s also so many ways to do it, from using twin tips to a surfboard and ultimately, the hydrofoil.
How many lessons do you need to give before someone can do it on their own? I need to give five hours of private kite classes on five different days; then it’s up to the student to work on their own. The secret is to practice! It’s a lot like learning to drive a car—you can get your license very fast, but you’ll be much better if you practice.
What’s new this season at St. Barth Kite? We just launched the Wing SUP and wing foil activity. It has had a slow start, but flying a wing is fun and easy, and now I can merge my passions of kite and foil.
What is your favorite activity on island when you’re not kiteboarding? I love to do stand-up paddle when there’s no wind or take a boat to Colombier and snorkel with the sea turtles together with my family. FOR MORE INFORMATION
Follow @7cielofstbarth | Stbarthkite.com
What is the best time of year to visit to kiteboard every day? The best time in the year to kite will be from Thanksgiving to Easter, though summer is not that bad, either.
WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 17
Photo by Peder Ahlberg
SHEER PHYSICS CY R US S CH E NC K O F VE RMO NT’S RE NO UN SKI S
PAGE 18 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
CONTROL TOWER | CYRUS SCHENCK, VERMONT’S RENOUN SKIS
Photos by Evan Williams
Founded in 2011 by northern Vermont native Cyrus Schenck, Renoun is not just another ski company. Instead their core goal is to be the absolute opposite by offering a product that is “unequivocally different.” With the power of data from a physics-cheating polymer typically reserved for the aerospace industry in his pocket, Schenck went on to develop Renoun’s trademarked HDT™ technology for their skis. In 2014, they launched their prototype Renoun skis, and the response was immediate, from winning ISPO’s Gold Award (now twice) to 100% growth. Tell us what drew you to working in the ski world initially. I grew up in Vermont skiing and was studying aeronautical engineering at Clarkson University when I came across the nonNewtonian polymer that we now embed into every ski. Seeing what this polymer could do was a “light bulb” moment, and I immediately thought of putting it in skis. The rest is history.
Do you see yourself as more a designer or an engineer, or dare we say inventor? I studied some engineering but I’m a far cry from an engineer. The beauty of this job is that I get to do a bunch of different “jobs” every
day. Some days I get to work on our new ski graphics, others I’m planning the strategy for the next season, and others I’m putting my head together with our patent attorneys to protect our IP.
Can you explain in layman’s terms what HDT is and does? Think of Lindsey Vonn’s skis—they are super stiff for going fast. Now think of a powder ski—they are soft to be more playful. HDT allows you to have a ski that can basically adapt to do both. It doesn’t quite reach those two extremes, but it’s the first adaptable ski ever, so your ski is constantly adapting to match conditions and how you’re skiing them. It just makes skiing easier.
What does having stability in a ski truly mean? It just means skiing is easier, no matter your skill level. If you’re a beginner, the ski will literally adapt with you as you get better. For an expert, it means you can charge harder—and when you hit bad snow, the ski will adapt to get you through it faster and easier (and you’ll stay on your feet).
Your tagline—1600 came before us. We will not be 1601. —presumably means you won’t be the same in a long list of sameness, but given what we know of your abilities, we imagine it means something even more for you personally. Care to elaborate? The world does not need more skis (don’t even get me started on how bad they are for the environment) so if we’re going to build skis, they’d better be unique and actually better. Anybody can build skis these days. You can call 100 different factories and they’ll be happy to build you some sticks that slide on snow—want some phone numbers?
WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 19
CONTROL TOWER | CYRUS SCHENCK, VERMONT’S RENOUN SKIS
What are some of your toughest current challenges in the ski market? Where are you creating growth opportunities?
Do you have an ideal client profile? A happy customer—seriously. People undervalue their own customers far too often. I used to wash windows (it’s how I paid for the first seven years of Renoun) and I never advertised; it was all word of mouth. The same goes for Renoun—we want every customer to be not just “satisfied” but “stoked” because then they tell a friend and that’s how we grow 50%+ every year.
The two-year warranty is awfully generous; how come? And does it not make you nervous? Since our skis are handmade, we’re also able to put more care into each one. We’re not cranking out hundreds of thousands of skis like other companies, so we can take more time in the manufacturing process. Our return rate plus our money-back guarantee returns are still less than other ski companies—apparently it’s working.
If you could go back to 2011, what’s the first thing you’d tell yourself? I would remind myself to take it slow. Building an outdoors brand takes 50+ years, and Renoun is no different. Plan production appropriately and take the slow and steady approach. There are some years we’ve grown 100% and it’s super challenging to keep up that pace (especially when self-funded).
What do you miss about window washing, if anything? It’s very meditative and rewarding. You have lots of time to think and plan, which is nice too. My sister actually now runs the business and is building her own tiny house in the off-season.
Your motto is “to inspire”; what do you mean by that? It’s a reminder to not be afraid to push boundaries and do something a little controversial sometimes. Too many companies play it safe. I want Renoun to be the kind of company that someone sees and is inspired to build something based on their own beliefs. If we’re going to inspire anyone, we can’t just be taking the easy road and doing what normal companies do. We’re not here to sell skis; we’re here to change an industry.
We hear you’ve reworked HDT and put it in gym floors. Is it true that Penn State has one of them? Yes. We’ve actually been developing this for four years now and are super excited to finally see it in a real gym. Our floors have the best shock absorption rates in the industry and help decrease impactrelated injuries. It’s a really interesting project to work on. Lots more to come! FOR MORE INFORMATION
PAGE 20 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
renoun.com
Photos by Tim Marcour (top left), Jack Consenstein (middle left) and Jakob Ager (bottom left)
Most brands have massive financial backing, and they can spend to be on top and not have to worry about making a profit. The funny part is they are still too scared to sell direct, so they’re handcuffing themselves. We’re one of the only brands that sells direct to consumer—it’s the future of the industry. Ski shops aren’t going away, but only the really, really good ones will remain.
feels like home
Š JEANNE LE MENN
A place that and so much more...
P R I VAT E V I L L A R E N TA L S , AT T E N T I V E C O N C I E R G E S E R V I C E , T R U S T E D E X P E R I E N C E
Discover more at wimco.com +1 401 849 8012 @wimcovillas info@wimco.com For real estate sales, contact sales@wimco.com wimco.com/sales Villa GEM, 4BR, Gouverneur, St. Barths
ST. BA RT H S ’ J U N IOR CH AMP I O N, T ESSA T H Y S S E N
WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 23
Twenty-two-year-old St. Barths native Tessa Thyssen has been surfing practically her whole life and it’s paid off. A natural talent, this island girl is a former European junior champion, world junior vice-champion and even world junior champ. Despite recent setbacks like her local sponsor’s departure after Hurricane Irma, she’s progressed with a limited budget and is currently ranked #26 in the world (as of press time). This year she hopes to make it onto the Women’s Championship Tour, the premier league of surfing, with an eye toward the 2024 Olympics. Currently based in Mexico, we caught her between legs of her busy travel schedule to learn more about the beguiling life of a female pro surfer. When did you first learn to surf? When I was about 4, I started standing up on a boogie board and riding the waves of a small beach in Guadeloupe, where we lived at the time. My dad started taking me out on a surfboard when I was 5, and a year later I had my own surfboard.
What’s it like growing up in St. Barths as a child and a budding surfer? I lived in Guadeloupe until I was 10, then we moved to St. Maarten for two years and then to St. Barths. I spent my entire childhood on the beach and in the water. I can’t complain!
What is it that keeps you surfing day after day? Surfing for me is a way to connect with nature. The ocean is an element I always admired. I was never good at expressing myself with words, and it’s only when I’m surfing that I really am free to express myself in a way I feel comfortable. Like a painter on a blank slate. Surfing has been my passion since the first time I rode a wave PAGE 24 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
by myself. When I’m surfing I feel completely free and have the most fun. Competing is pushing myself to do better, and justifying my surfing to other surfers, as well as the audience, and achieving the goals I set for myself is the most satisfying of all.
Do you think anyone can learn to surf? Any advice for beginners? Of course anyone can learn to surf. Surfing can be done at any kind of level. Don’t look at me as a standard for the kind of fun you can have surfing. Learn the basics—that is the hard part—but from there on it’s all fun!
As a former European junior champion, world junior vicechampion and even world junior champ—do you find that the competition has gotten harder over the years or easier? The competitive level is getting higher and higher. Women’s surfing is always a little behind that of men, but we’re catching up fast. Current women’s competitive surfing is like men’s competitive
C O N T R O L T O W E R | S T. B A R T H S J U N I O R C H A M P I O N , T E S S A T H Y S S E N
surfing 10 years ago or so, and the gap grows smaller each year. I think it’s good that the competition gets better, because it forces me to push harder.
What is the training like? Give us a day in your life in Mexico. I consider St. Barths home, but I “live” with my boyfriend in Mexico. I actually spend so much time traveling during the year that I don’t spend that much time in either St. Barths or Mexico, but a little more in Mexico. My boyfriend is very athletic too, so it makes it so much more fun that we can train together and push each other to do more all the time.
What is the hardest thing about surfing professionally? One of the hardest things is traveling all the time and living out of a suitcase and board bag. It is also hard not having any major sponsor, and I always have to manage on a small budget and on my own. Some surfers have family or a coach to travel with and can stay at nice hotels close to the contest spots. I always have to get organized with other girls to share a room, etc., just to keep the cost down. I think it’s possible I could have made the Championship tour by now if I had a bigger budget. Unfortunately, success does depend on money in this sport. Lots of good surfers had to abandon their dreams because they simply couldn’t afford to travel, but I’m not giving up. I’m really looking for a good sponsor who will go to the top with me!
And the most rewarding? The most enjoyable part is traveling to new places, getting to surf different waves and meeting a lot of people. LEARN MORE
@tessathyssen
Gustavia, St. Barthélemy
The only place on St. Barths for rhum connoisseurs to try the Caribbean’s finest and rarest rhums.
WWW.RHUMROOM.COM WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 25
Seek the Peaks T H E R E WAR DS O F H E L I -S KI I NG, AS TO LD BY TRAD E W I ND ’S RE SI D E NT DAR E DE VI LS, TH E ZI P KI N BRO TH E RS
PAGE 26 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
THE HANGAR | SEEK THE PEAKS
AT LEFT & BELOW: David Zipkin | AT RIGHT: CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures, Photo: The Public Works
It’s no surprise that the founders of Tradewind are prone to a little adventure themselves. After all, one doesn’t become a pilot—or enter into the aviation industry, for that matter—without a fair share of moxie. When not flying or triangulating the planes in the skies, both brothers have found themselves drawn to the high speed, high adrenaline and high altitude rewards of heli-skiing. Relying on outfitter CMH Heli to set up their trips, the brothers, David and Eric Zipkin, have enjoyed four heli-ski adventures between them, ranging from Canadian mountain destinations such as the Bugaboos in eastern British Columbia to the Cariboos and the Adamants. With such fun mountain names, it’s almost hard to imagine it being anything but a good time. Having learned to ski as kids between annual jaunts to Switzerland and their local mountains in Vermont, the two brothers have a deep passion for the sport. David actually raced a bit during college at Stowe. Quick to extol the wonder of a heli-skiing trip, both the brothers offered us these quick-fire responses in preparation for their upcoming return to the Adamants in March.
WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 27
THE HANGAR | SEEK THE PEAKS
The best thing about heli-skiing? DZ: Terrain and powder. You can ski powder on every run for a week
even if it hasn’t snowed recently. To put it in perspective, the CMH skiable terrain is one-third the size of Switzerland. EZ: Powder.
The worst thing about heli-skiing? DZ: It’s pricey. EZ: You run out of money.
What motivates you to do it and then do it again? DZ: Addiction. EZ: Wide open spaces and the ability to disconnect.
Can anyone do it? DZ: Ideally you’re a very strong skier or boarder. An intermediate
can do it, but to really enjoy it you want to be very comfortable in any conditions. EZ: Any intermediate to advanced skier, but it helps to be in very
good shape to truly enjoy.
Does it make average skiing less enjoyable? DZ: I’m sure it does for some. I love to ski no matter where I am, but
that may be unusual. EZ: No—it’s just different.
How does it compare to flying? DZ: With heli-skiing you can totally disconnect. With flying you need
to pay a bit more attention. EZ: More tiring!
PAGE 28 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
FAR LEFT: CMH Heli-Skiing & Summer Adventures, Photo: Grant Gunderson | AT LEFT & BELOW LEFT: David Zipkin
David and Eric Zipkin with childhood friend Marco in the Cariboos, 2019.
NOTHING LESS THAN TOPNOTCH
Whether you Dine, Drink, Stay, Play or Relax, Topnotch is Stowe’s Premier Resort and Spa. DON’T JUST VISIT... EXPERIENCE IT!
4000 Mountain Road • Stowe, Vermont • 800.451.8686 • Topnotchresort.com
Against the
Wind ST. BA RT H SAI L O R ’S M IG U EL D A N E T ’S MULT I P L E A G 2R C A M PAI GNS
PAGE 30 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
THE HANGAR | AGAINST THE WIND
St. Barths native Miguel Danet inherited his love of the ocean from his parents—sailing and exploring around St. Barths and other surrounding islands since he was 8 years old. His zeal for the wind on the water became fully evident in 2008 and again in 2018 when Miguel competed in the prestigious French AG2R Transatlantic sailing race, which begins in Concarneau, France (Brittany) and finishes in St. Barths. A transatlantic crossing is a remarkable feat; a race of one is another adventure altogether.
All photos © Pierrick Contin
TOGETHER WITH HIS FRIEND AND PROFESSIONAL SAILOR ERIC PERON ,
Miguel earned third place in his first La Transat AG2R La Mondiale in 2008. Eager to compete again, he signed up in 2018 to do it with Damien Cloarec on his same boat, the Macaron French Pastries, a Figaro 2. This year, Miguel is back with Eric and training for the upcoming 2020 and 2022 Transat AG2R races on L’Egoiste, a brand-new Beneteau Figaro 3. The AG2R Mondiale began in 1992 and is a 3,800-nauticalmile course typically held in late April, taking three weeks or so to complete. The record finish time is held by Thomas Ruyant and Adrien Hardy in 2018, who completed the race in 18 days, 11 hours, 48 minutes and 22 seconds. For this year’s race, which departs on April 19 from Concarneau, the expectation is for boats to be into St. Barths around May 12. Miguel Danet and Eric Peron seen here at the Tour de Bretagne racing on L’Egoiste, their updated Figaro 3, which they will sail together in the upcoming Transat AG2R in April.
WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 31
THE HANGAR | AGAINST THE WIND
To prepare for this year’s race, veterans Miguel and Eric are practicing as much as possible, including competing in this past fall’s Tour de Bretagne where they raced together for the first time on their boat, L’Egoiste (seen pictured here), the new Beneteau Figaro 3. They also competed in the F18 Championships in Martinique in January and will spend most of February training in France. Given this is not their first Transat AG2R race, the two are exceptionally knowledgeable and ready for the toughest parts, which Miguel identifies as the first 24–48 hours, which he says can be exceptionally chilly in April and particularly daunting between 2 a.m. and 5 a.m., especially if there is no moon. For Miguel, the most important thing to remember during the race is to respect the sea and realize, as he says, “You are on a 30-foot boat in the middle of the ocean.” As a result, Miguel is responsible for staying on top of the weather and constantly monitoring the wind so the boat can be in the most optimal position. To endure the long hours on the water, the two men must also take care of themselves— sleep, eat and stay hydrated.
PAGE 32 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
LEARN MORE
www.stbarthsailor.com/ag2r-race
Photo © Pierrick Contin
For Miguel, the most important thing to remember during the race is to respect the sea and realize, as he says, “You are on a 30-foot boat in the middle of the ocean.”
For Miguel it has never been about the result but rather about the learning experience at large. As he notes, “I keep learning every day and it is like a dream to be able to sail with a professional sailor like Eric.” Of course, having the island’s support is also powerful; “The Dream Team Peron/ Danet” is how they are known in St. Barths. And as he notes, the welcome home with the island cheering them on from both the dock and various speedboats along their flank is the best part of all. For a man who makes sailing his livelihood and the ocean his office (Miguel owns and operates St. Barth Sailor, a local charter operation), the opportunity to compete and be part of the Transat is simply a dream come true. We wish him the best of luck.
HIDDEN HAVENS GREAT ROCK BIGHT PRESERVE, MARTHA’S VINEYARD
PAGE 34 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
At just over 28 acres, this protected park land is a favorite among informed hikers, bikers and birdwatchers on Martha’s Vineyard. It’s also an ideal spot for a secluded picnic and relaxing dog walk—though the latter is only available early morning or evening and never between April and July. With its tall specimen trees, grassy fields, wetlands and algae-topped pond all scattered along a seaside bluff, the area requires careful protection, which is masterfully overseen by the MV Land Bank. Named for the great rock that juts out proudly in the bight (curved cove) waters at the end of the trail, the area and its loop are well worth the visit, particularly on the off-season where you may have it all to yourself. LEARN MORE AT
mvlandbank.com
WINTER BREAK 2020 | PAGE 35
VECTOR
ARRIVE IN STYLE
Founded in 2001 on the premise that air travelers deserve the highestquality aircraft, crew and service, Tradewind Aviation is an independent alternative to major air carriers, operating luxury scheduled shuttle and ondemand charter flights throughout North America and the Caribbean.
DISCOVER THE TRADEWIND DIFFERENCE SCHEDULED SHUTTLES
—T he comfort and convenience of a private charter for the cost of a single seat —S hared charter flights to unique destinations in the Northeast and Caribbean
Northeast Routes
—P rivate terminal convenience on Northeast routes —P rivate lounge and VIP transfers on Caribbean routes —T icket book discounts, free changes, pets welcome — I nterline Partnerships with: British Airways, United and American PRIVATE CHARTER
—T ravel in style on your schedule throughout North America and the Caribbean —E xtensive fleet of modern Pilatus PC-12 and Citation CJ3 aircraft —B lock time discounts available with low commitment —A RG/US Gold Rated Safety —V irtuoso Travel Network Preferred Operator
Caribbean Routes
DOWNLOAD THE TRADEWIND APP
Tradewind is a preferred air supplier of the Virtuoso network. PAGE 36 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
Tradewind Aviation has been awarded an ARGUS Gold rating, which is held by less than 20% of all US-certificated charter operators.
IT’S ABOUT TIME
...to jump into planning your NANTUCKET GETAWAY
Vacation Rentals & Real Estate Sales 34 Centre Street Nantucket, MA 02554 508.825.5741
www.centrestreetrealty.com
VECTOR
NEW SHARED CHARTER SHUTTLE
FLIGHTS TO NEWPORT
We are thrilled to announce new scheduled service from Westchester Airport (HPN) to the Newport State Airport (NPT). Flights will begin in spring of 2020. Visit www.flytradewind.com/Newport to learn more.
PAGE 38 | GOODSPEED MAGAZINE
Image courtesy of Discover Newport
We look forward to welcoming you aboard!
FLY WITH FREEDOM INTRODUCING THE NEW GOODSPEED CARD CHARTER PROGRAM
Take advantage of significant savings and simplified pricing on private charter in the Tradewind fleet of Pilatus PC-12 aircraft No empty leg or reposition fees—Pay only for the time you fly
TRADEWIND AVIATION CONTACT US TODAY TO LEARN MORE:
800.376.7922
|
203.267.3305
|
charter@flytradewind.com
|
www.flytradewind.com
SuNdowners Sunset libation inspiration from our favorite local spots E LV I S ’ B E A C H B A R , A N G U I L L A —
Sunsets and beach bars are a match made in heaven, but sunsets and bars festooned with former Anguilla racing boats are pure nirvana. Such is the case at Elvis’ Beach Bar in Sandy Ground, whose western-facing views are but one of the attractions, which include board games, large screen TVs for sports and the infamous goatchos (goat nachos)—don’t knock ’em till you try ’em. The main reason to stay, though, is their homemade Rum Punch, whose colors appropriately mirror the evening sky. LEARN MORE
elvisbeachbar.com
Elvis’ WorldFAMOUS RUM
PUNCH INGRE DI E N T S — 1.5 oz. dark rum — 1.5 oz. light rum
— 1 part guava juice
— 1 part pineapple juice — 1 part orange juice — Splash of bitters
Mix all ingredients in a cocktail shaker with fresh ice and shake. Pour and serve on the rocks. Top off with grated nutmeg and garnish with an orange slice and a cherry.
PAGE4040| |GOODSPEED GOODSPEEDMAGAZINE MAGAZINE PAGE
Land TEL / Lurin, St. Barths | 1692 m² | €11,850,000
a view to
call your own...
Doug Foregger doug@wimco.com +1 401 236 0190 Director, International Real Estate For English-speaking clients
Visit our office across from the St. Barths airport.
Lionel Garaix lgaraix@wimco.com 0590 51 07 51 President, WIMCOsbh For French-speaking clients
wimco.com/sales
realestate@wimco.com
CALIBER RM 60-01 REGATTA LIMITED EDITION
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