For many years I had wanted to witness the spectacle of the Swiftsure sailing race start. I have always loved the view of the Olympic Mountains and the sea and thought the added dynamic of the sails and boats could make an interesting composition. I was, however, equally drawn to the spectators at the edge of Clover Point. Many, like me, didn't have a clue what was going on and relied on the people who were watching friends and family race to explain the chaos of the many classes of boats jockeying for position at the start line. I was inspired to create this painting after seeing a painting by Degas last year at the MET called Horses in front of the Stands.