"We don't have any sailors in Australia, we have rowers"
- Ben Lexcen
About this Quote
The quote by Ben Lexcen, "We don't have any sailors in Australia, we have rowers", recommends a powerful commentary on the frame of mind and character of Australian sports culture, especially in the context of competitive sailing. Lexcen, an Australian luxury yacht designer famously known for his work on the yacht Australia II, which won the America's Cup in 1983, likely intended this remark to highlight the determination, grit, and team spirit quality of Australian athletes.
On a literal level, the statement produces a distinction between "sailors" and "rowers". Sailors typically depend on navigational abilities, wind knowledge, and tactical decision-making to steer their vessels, while rowers use large physical strength and endurance to move their boats. By emphasizing rowers, Lexcen recommends that Australian sailors possess an exceptional level of endurance and perseverance, comparable to that of rowers who need to strive and collaboratively to achieve success. It suggests a choice for a hardworking, no-nonsense method rather than exclusively counting on external aspects such as wind or innovation.
Metaphorically, this quote can be deemed a homage to the determination and strength of the Australian spirit. It underlines the concept that success isn't simply an item of natural skill or beneficial conditions but likewise of relentless effort and teamwork. In essence, Lexcen's statement underscores a cultural value: embracing obstacles with a hands-on, solid mindset. This mindset reflected in Australia's successful run in the 1983 America's Cup, where Australia II famously broke the longest winning streak in the competition's history, akin to the relentless pull of the rower who pushes through hardships.
Therefore, Lexcen's words encapsulate a more comprehensive cultural identity where success is attained through effort, unity, and the unrelenting pursuit of objectives, more than just innate capability or fortunate situations. This spirit is emblematic of Australia's more comprehensive sporting values.
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