I only knew of Mark as the man who wrote THE book everyone reads when they take up racing.  Then I found we could retain him for personal coaching – Wow!  Mark has done two regattas with us and some single training days for the Class (Solent Sunbeams). He has made every element of training and practice valuable yet fun.  He always has the perfect anecdote for every occasion and can improvise a training opportunity out of nothing.

What have I taken from our time with Mark? The confidence that we can work out what to do using some basic Rushall principles. He made us focus on what is going to really make a difference in any specific race or part of a race.  And concentrate on what will create speed or advantage in that particular situation – i.e. to prioritise.  Often he helped us not to try to be too clever.  For example, when on a run in Chi harbour, if there’s no clear advantage left or right, just go straight!  Simple but often forgotten.  Mark, please come and sail with us again soon!”

Mark was very helpful to us in understanding the correct strategy for
the sometimes complex cross tide at the 2017 Laser 4.7 Worlds in
Nieuwpoort. His boundless enthusiasm and deep knowledge are unmatched in
making the complex simple.

Best of all: Mark never gives a flat answer. Instead, he guides sailors
to the correct conclusions by asking counter-questions; Much more memorable!

“Mark Rushall has been training us, Oman Sail, on the Tour Voile. We are a mixed crew of professionals and Omani sailors learning offshore racing. Mark has been really valuable for me as a skipper, to help have a clear view on situations. He’s always been very clear in his observations.

Mark also trained the Omanis on their 100% Omani regatta and he was also onboard with them on two occasions. Mark’s approach does fit well with the Omani mentality, as any learner, they need very simple explanations and tips. They also need someone who can say straight forward things with a gentle way – this is probably something that is one of Mark’s biggest characteristics. Thank you Mark, for your very valuable work with us.”

I’m awaiting the written job offer, but if it is as discussed my mind is made up! It is time to stop swanning around the Med! Thank you very much for your time and mentoring. It was a great help and much appreciated. You are extremely good at it.

“Working with Mark Rushall has made the biggest difference to our campaign, even bigger than all our technical projects put together! Behind the scenes, there is no one that goes above and beyond like he does. Mark inspires me to think outside the box, pushing me tactically whilst being supportive all at the same time! Without him, I don’t know where I would be, and someday I hope I can finally be mini Mark!!”

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