Sailing had been a part of the Olympic Games since almost the beginning. Every four years the planet concentrates on some very special men and women, and the broiling heat of the Olympic cauldron requests extraordinary qualities if the dream is not to become a nightmare. The people that fill the pages of this unique book titled: Great Moments in Olympic Sailing History have discovered within themselves a bottomless well of determination and talent, and added the ability to perform under the most wonderful pressure. They are unique heroes, and this marvelous book is a worthy celebration of their achievements.

The sailing hero Ben Ainslie on board the GBR75 yacht Teamorigin

As well as the heroes, there are the brilliant teams behind them, the yacht designers, the spectacular locations, and the development of sailing from its yacht-racing origins to the adrenalin-induced sport it is today.

This gorgeous photographic book reflects the entire history of Olympic sailing, with spectacular photographs celebrating heroes such as Paul Elvstrom and Ben Ainslie, fabulous locations, legendary classes – and the never-ending struggle of an Olympic sailor to make his mark. Featuring awe-inspiring images from the best sailing photographers in the world, each with an enlightening and entertaining commentary, this stunning guide is a true celebration of a wonderful sport through the years.

Mark Chisnell is a writer, broadcaster and professional racing sailor. He has published nine works of award winning fiction and non-fiction, written for some of the world’s leading magazines and newspapers, including Esquire and The Guardian, and blogged and commentated on everything from the Volvo Ocean Race to the World Match Racing Tour. On the way, he has also won three offshore sailing world championships, and sailed as navigator with five America’s Cup teams.