I grew up racing on our family boats, starting with a Niagara 30 then a Viking 33. My parents raced so I didn't have much of a choice. When I was old enough I started racing and crewing on other boats as well. 420s, Lasers, keel boats. I raced my boat for many years but switched over to racing OPB (other people's boats) several years ago. I have to admit I'm pretty loose when it comes to sailing; I'll go out with anyone. These days I mostly race round the buoys but I enjoy long distance races better when I can manage the time. As everyone notes above, whenever there's another boat in sight, the race is on whether they know it or not 