This week on the show, Pam and Sarah are joined by offshore sailor Joan Mulloy, just three weeks after giving birth to her son Xavier. She is the first Irish woman to compete in La Solitaire and, prior to getting pregnant, she was planning on competing in the 2020 Vendée Globe, which starts on November 8, but 2020 turned out very differently for her.
The Vendée Globe is a solo race around the globe and there have only been seven women in the race since its inception in 1989. This lack of representation left Joan feeling like she had limited role models in the sport, especially in an event as unique and lengthy as the Vendée Globe. Entering the race would mean months at sea, away from family, so Joan sought advice from other female offshore sailors who had paved the way. They recommend that she do what her body told her.  So once Joan hit her second trimester she made the decision to scale back her on ocean training, instead opting to stay onshore. In offshore sailing races, you often have to go from zero to hero in a few short seconds, from grabbing a few minutes rest—of which you might only get 15 minutes over a few days of racing—to being up on deck making a quick maneuver. These conditions make it less than ideal for an expectant mother. 
Joan’s passion for her career was clear and starting her family only strengthens her passion, knowing that she is going to be the best mum if she is happy and fulfilled in her sailing career. As with all the sportswomen we have talked to, the importance of your support network is key to success as an athlete, and for the child’s wellbeing. We are very grateful that Joan shared her birth story with us because it’s our hope that these personal accounts will help other women on this journey.
And before you go take a listen to Joan talking about the sport on the WiSP Sports The Sailing Show with Abby Ehler and friends.
Hosts: Sarah Newberry Moore & Pam Relph Jones
Podcast length: 50 mins
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