Smith has been designing sails since he was 8 years old when he owned a widgeon.

He is passionate about making boats go as fast as they can on the race course. This
led him to a career in sailmaking. Going fast is an “obsession” for him. This has resulted in the 10 World championship wins under his belt and also was awarded US Yachtsman of the Year in 2006 and 2018, On or off the course, Smith is always willing to offer advice and knowledge to fellow competitors (whether they are his customers or not). He volunteered to coach a high school sailing team for 3 years and also ran many clinics to J70 and Etchells fleets around the country over the course of his career. The younger generation of top tier racers look up to him as a mentor.

There have been numerous articles written about Smith, but a favorite is his inclusion in Gary Jobson’s book, “Legends of American Sailing- 50 Men and Women who Have Shaped the Sport”.

Supporting Links:

JUD SMITH NAMED ROLEX YACHTSMAN OF THE YEAR

Interview With Smith
Sailing World Article by Gary Jobson

Sail Magazine Article

Scuttlebutt Sailing News