Kerry Klein: Mastering the Winds and Waves in Caribbean Sailing

Introduction to Kerry Klein: A Master of Wind and Waves

Kerry Klein is a name synonymous with skill, determination, and versatility in the world of sailing. I first encountered Kerry during the Willy T’s Virgin’s Cup Race at Norman Island in the British Virgin Islands, where her prowess at the helm was immediately evident. Blonde, tanned, and every bit the professional sailor she is today, Kerry impressed not just with her racing skills, but with her ability to wear many hats within the marine industry. I knew then that I wanted to learn more about this remarkable woman, and I got my chance during the BVI Spring Regatta this year. Kerry was part of the crew on #1 Racing – Magnificent 7 – John Foster’s J-27, where she has been a key player for two racing seasons.

Sailing Runs in the Family

Kerry hails from a family with deep sailing roots. Her mother, Heather, and Louise Holmberg were trailblazers as the first women Sunfish racers in the Virgin Islands. Kerry’s father, Ken, represented the USVI in the 1967 Pre Olympic Trials in Mexico City and in the 1972 Olympics in Kiel, Germany. Her brother, Kenny, won gold in windsurfing at the Caribbean and Central American Games in Cuba in 1982. It’s clear that the passion for sailing runs in her genes, but Kerry also possesses something unique—a natural ability to “feel the wind.”

Haulover Marine Center Opens

Mastering the Elements: Kerry’s Racing Philosophy

As we sat under the tamarind trees by the Nanny Cay Marina pool, Kerry shared her philosophy on racing. “By learning to call the waves and wind, you keep the entire crew focused. You have to stay ‘tuned in’ every second during a race to win. By calling the wind continuously during the race, everyone remains in a total state of concentration. The results show for themselves.” Her words are not just wisdom but also a reflection of her meticulous training and experience.

A Journey of Dedication and Achievement

Kerry’s journey is one of dedication and achievement. A native of St. Thomas, she was a competitive swimmer as a child and went on to study Geology and Marine Biology at the University of Florida. She furthered her education with a Master’s degree from the Oceanographic Institute in Fort Lauderdale. During this time, she raced J-24s on an all-women’s team. Her professional career took her to West Palm Beach County, where she worked as an environmental analyst for five years until a serious back injury brought her back to St. Thomas in 1992.

Despite the setback, Kerry continued to pursue her passion for the sea. She holds a USCG 100-ton Masters License and has captained her own daysail ketch, Salt Whistle, for a decade. Her experience includes crewing on the classic 120-foot J boat Shamrock and captaining numerous yachts throughout the Caribbean. Kerry started racing the circuit in 1999 on Magnificent 7 before joining the CORT winner Mermaid, where she raced with Mark Ploch for four years. In 2003, she sailed on the winning Mistress Quickly with Guy Eldridge from the BVI before returning to Magnificent 7. Her track record is impressive, and every boat she has sailed on has benefited from her expertise.

Opti Kids Train with Open Sea Crossing

Looking to the Future

Kerry is not one to rest on her laurels. She has clear plans for her future, both on land and at sea. “I plan to truly settle into the Virgin Islands by establishing a new land-based career in real estate, which I enjoy. I would also like to become more involved in the land-based community. I will still continually work to expand my knowledge and commitment to racing on the water. It’s one of those beautiful sports that is always challenging. You can do it an entire lifetime and truly never master it, all the while enjoying every minute.”

Conclusion

With her track record of success and her ambitious plans, there is no doubt that Kerry Klein will continue to make waves both on land and at sea. Go girl, go—we wish you the best in all your future endeavors!

Nancy Terrell has written for ALL AT SEA since 2004.