The Massachusetts-born Read has twice been at the helm of National Sailing Hall of Famer Dennis Conner’s America’s Cup campaigns in 2000 and 2003. He was named US Sailing’s Rolex Yachtsman of the Year twice, has won nine World Championships, and has been involved with 46 North American, National and World Championship wins. He is a three-time Collegiate All-American, 1982’s College Sailor of the Year, and as of 2017 he still holds the record for most J/24 World Championship wins as a skipper (six).

Read grew up sailing in Barrington, Rhode Island. He is a graduate of Boston University, where he was a three-time collegiate All-American and 1982 College Sailor of the Year. He is a member of the Boston University Athletic Hall of Fame.

After skippering two Volvo Ocean Races, Ken has returned to his business and sailmaking roots as President of North Sails Group and Executive Vice President of North Technology Group.  While running one of sailing’s most prestigious brands. he is still very active sailing and winning in a variety of classes.  Read has also become an ambassador for the sport of sailing, serving as color commentator for NBC Sports during the 34^th and 35^th America’s Cups.

Accomplishments and Honors