Heidi Frist

Sailboat Skipper
Suzie Q

When Heidi’s children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren look at portraits of her and wonder “who was this woman?”, she wants them to know what kind of life she led. Through sailing, Heidi has found a sense of independence and confidence, and also important friendships, while she adjusted to a new stage in her life. Her first trip to Key West for sailing education was the best experience of her life. Having never travelled on her own before, the trip gave her a new feeling of empowerment and a desire to sail as much as possible. She now passes on this excitement by inviting other women racing who have never raced before, never even sailed before. She loves witnessing their “Aha!” moments while learning to race, like learning how fast a spinnaker comes down and a jib goes up. Heidi also invites veterans on her boat through the Valhalla Sailing Project, sharing the racing camaraderie with those who miss the tight-knit bond of the military. She is proud of her sailing life, boldly saying “I do this” about her experiences on the water.