Profile : Andrew Palfrey

Andrew Palfrey & Iain Murray

Third youngest of seven brothers and a sister, Andrew, better known as “Dog”, has grown up with a strong sea-going heritage.

His great-grandfather came from England to St. Kilda in Melbourne and built wooden boats in the family’s backyard.  His grandfather and father continued the tradition; sadly, all are gone now.  

Andrew remembers learning to sail with his siblings in Cadet Dinghies off St. Kilda.  “I’m the only one left sailing, but my uncle was big in Dragons – he died towing one.”

Andrew’s father taught him values relating to people, honesty and a good work ethic.  “He was a man’s man, he had good humour and a strong personality.”

Perhaps those traits led the 39 year-old to his successful coaching roles, including Richard Perini’s victory at the 2005 Farr 40 Worlds.  “This was one of the best things to happen for me.  It’s the people.  Helping them work better together, melding them.  They were a great bunch to work with.  The same 10 guys are signed up for the next one.”
 
This is the Sydneysider’s third Olympic campaign - the second with Iain Murray.  “Now we have four year’s experience and are seeing the benefits of the work we put in last time.”

Teamed with outstanding yachtsmen Cameron Miles and James Mayo in the Soling, he just missed selection for the 2000 Olympics.  Immediately after the final Olympic trials, the trio contested and won the 1999 Etchell Worlds with a race to spare.  “The Etchell class sailing was part of our Soling training. That win still rates very highly for me, as it was the best possible conclusion to a solid but ultimately unsuccessful campaign with Cam and James”. 

“I accepted an invitation to sail with Cameron in the ‘97 Soling Worlds. As I was employed in the industry of selling and building boats, it was the first time in a long time that I went sailing just for the pureness of it; tight competition, skill levels, preparation and so much more.  That’s what attracted me to Olympic competition.”

A desire to do another Soling campaign was denied when the class was voted out for the 2004 Games.

“I thought my Olympic campaigning days were over, but I was talking to Mothy (Steve Jarvin).  He suggested talking to Iain Murray.  I didn’t know Iain well, but we did a regatta together and off we went.  We’re not getting any younger and neither one of us has represented at the Olympics, so this is important.”

Happiest when he’s sailing one-design classes, Dog says support from his wife Kate, whom he met in Cowes over fifteen years ago has helped achieve his sailing goals.   They have two young children with another due in July.  Having children has matured Dog.  He gets less wound up now; is more patient.  He says family is the most important thing in life.

“Kate knew what I did from the first.  It’s hard being away from home so much, but she wants to see us bring home a medal.”

Can they medal? 

“We wouldn’t be going down this road if we didn’t think so.  But I’ll be happy if I walk away knowing I’ve done the best I can do. I try to live my life that way.”

Of those he rates highly, Dog says:  “I admire Iain.  He doesn’t yell or carry on, he’s professional.  We are a good blend.”  Richard Perini, John Bertrand, Michael Coxon and Kerry Packer are others. “I know very little of Kerry Packer, but in all the tributes after his recent passing, I admired the loyalty he showed to those who helped him. He was generous in a low key way.”

He and Iain finished 10th at the 2005 Star Class Worlds.  “That result was better than it looks and has spurred me on.”

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