In the dynamic world of competitive sailing, tradition and technology are merging to revolutionize the sport. Advancements in boat design, weather forecasting, and performance analytics have completely transformed the landscape for sailors today. Jon Bilger, a seasoned sailor and Olympian, is at the forefront of this change. His journey from competing in the Barcelona 1992 Olympics to pioneering cutting-edge technologies exemplifies this evolution.
Jon Bilger comes from a family deeply rooted in sailing, with his father being a triple Olympian sailor. He started sailing at the age of eight and traveled the world with his father to attend regattas. Continuing the family legacy, Jon became an Olympian himself, representing New Zealand in the Barcelona 1992 Olympics. He is also a two-time winner of the America’s Cup, a New Zealand National Champion in multiple classes, and the Founding Director of PredictWind, a project driven by his passion to keep mariners safe and prepared at sea.
Looking back on his journey from the Barcelona Olympics to the present day, Jon’s experiences showcase the remarkable advancements in competitive sailing. While the ultimate goal of being the first to cross the finish line remains unchanged, the technology supporting athletes has vastly evolved. The fusion of tradition and technology has created a new era in competitive sailing, where sailors like Jon Bilger are leading the way.