Doug and Sigrid Knight, who reside on Bainbridge Island, have excelled in aquatic competitions, each specializing in different areas—Doug in sailing and Sigrid in rowing.
Doug, an experienced sailor, secured a spot in the 1980 Moscow Olympics. Regrettably, the U.S. and 60 other nations opted out of the event in protest of the Russian invasion of Afghanistan.
The Knights’ journey commenced at Queen Anne High School in Seattle in 1952, and they have been inseparable ever since. Initially, they shared a passion for skiing before Doug’s interest in sailing was piqued. In 1956, Bill Buchan, who is coincidentally married to Sigrid’s cousin, approached Doug about competitive sailing. Despite Doug’s limited prior experience in competitive sailing, they quickly mastered the techniques and sailed to victory.
They favored the star boat, a 23-foot racing keelboat that was once prominent in the Olympics. Known for its distinctive mechanics and higher physical demands compared to modern sailboats, the star boat presented an exhilarating challenge for the duo.
Between 1956 and 1980, Bill and Doug dominated the international sailing scene, securing numerous triumphs and accolades. Doug fondly recalled, “We achieved victory in numerous races, defying age stereotypes as my competitors jokingly referred to me as ‘grandpa’ while I continued to outperform them.”
Some of Doug’s notable achievements include the 1971 World Championships, the 1980 Olympic Trials in Estonia, and three Baccardi races leading up to the 1980 Olympics.
Reflecting on his successes, Doug remarked, “Winning the world championship was incredibly fulfilling as we surpassed all competitors. I took part in several World Championships, consistently achieving top rankings.”
Beyond the thrill of victory, Doug and Sigrid cherished the opportunity to travel the world through sailing, exploring countries like Germany, Sweden, Spain, and Portugal.
In 1972, the Knights decided to make Bainbridge Island their home. While Doug pursued house construction, Sigrid embarked on a 39-year career with the Washington State Ferries.
Despite realizing most of his ambitions by 1980, Doug’s dream of competing in the Olympics remained unrealized due to its cancellation by President Carter following the trials. Disappointed by this turn of events, Doug bid farewell to competitive sailing.
Subsequently, Doug found solace in hiking the Olympic Mountains, while Sigrid discovered her love for rowing, sparked by a serendipitous encounter at a Fourth of July celebration.
Sigrid, a devoted member of the BI Rowing club for nearly two decades, transitioned from competitive rowing to recreational sculling, savoring the serenity of the water.
Despite facing minor obstacles, Sigrid remains dedicated to rowing, appreciative of her ability to pursue this passion at her age.
Currently, Doug and Sigrid delight in watching younger athletes from their condo near the ferry dock, reminiscing about their remarkable sailing career.