Much of the success in my life can be traced to a singular recommendation from an old yachtsman with whom I corresponded. The man was Olin Stephens, who suggested that if I had the opportunity I should go to Webb Institute. It's difficult to describe the magnitude of the shadow that Mr. Stephens casts over yachting; one of the most prestigious design firms carries his name, as do a handful of America's Cup winners and a flotilla of the prettiest yachts ever built. A compilation of his designs, called simply Lines, is the ultimate volume of elegance and performance afloat. The definition of 'elder statesman,' he was still known to show up to his firms' Manhattan offices and celebrated his 100th birthday at New York Yacht Club's Harbor Court earlier this summer. Olin Stephens died yesterday - Saturday, September 13th, 2008 - at his residence in Hanover, New Hampshire. He was one hundred years old. If there was ever a man who deserved an age-old nautical blessing, he did... fair winds and following seas, sir. And thanks for the good advice from a kid who got all this and sailing too, too.

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