New Head Sailing Coach Brings Championship Experience, Passion to Role

By Sam Sosani

Cristina Ortiz Vivas, the new head coach at Lake Forest Sailing, is ready to make a splash.

“With a strong team and community around me, I believe hard work and commitment will lead to great results,” she said. “What excites me most about Lake Forest Sailing is the opportunity to continue building a program where young sailors can grow, push their limits, and discover everything this sport has to offer.”

“I’ve had the privilege of being coached by some of the best in the world, which has given me valuable insight into effective teaching, motivation, and leadership,” says Cristina Ortiz Vivas, the new head coach at Lake Forest Sailing.

As a competitive sailor, Ortiz Vivas has gained an impressive amount of experience. She represented Mexico in eight World Championships, numerous international regattas and took part in two Olympic campaigns. She has been recognized as a national champion in Mexico five times. Additionally, Ortiz Vivas received the Luchador Olmeca Trophy, an honor awarded annually to an athlete who has made an outstanding impact on Mexican sports.

“My proudest moments have always come from representing my country,” she said. “There is no feeling quite like seeing the results of years of hard work and countless hours of training unfold on the sport’s biggest stages. While I am proud of the podiums I’ve achieved, the honor of competing for my country stands above all.”

Ortiz Vivas smoothly transitioned into her role as a coach. Three of her sailors qualified for Mexico’s Opti National Circuit in 2024. The following year, two of her sailors qualified for the circuit, and one of them received the privilege of representing Mexico at the South American Championships. She has coached Optis, Lasers, C420s, and Hobie 16s.

“I’ve had the privilege of being coached by some of the best in the world, which has given me valuable insight into effective teaching, motivation, and leadership,” she said. “I strive to bring that experience to my own coaching, helping sailors grow not just in skill, but in confidence, resilience, and love for the sport.”

Ortiz Vivas can inspire young sailors through her drive and passion for the sport.

“My greatest motivation is to teach, to lead, and to share the many opportunities and life lessons that sailing has to offer,” she said. “I’ve learned many lessons, but the one that has stuck with me the most is that success requires time, effort, and commitment, but it’s equally important to enjoy every moment along the way. There will always be highs and lows. At times, you may feel like quitting, but remembering the joy and progress you’ve experienced can keep you going.”

When growing up, Ortiz Vivas fondly spent many moments being surrounded by sailboats and the water. As both of her parents represented Mexico in regional events, she could take inspiration from their success in the sport. Additionally, she truly looks up to her brother, Federico, as he has also accomplished many admirable achievements like becoming the national coach for Mexico’s Olympic team. Ortiz Vivas’ biggest rival and friend has always been her twin sister. Her rivalry with her twin sister, Andrea, helped to push her to attain a top ranking in Optimist sailing and windsurfing.

Ortiz Vivas joined Lake Forest Sailing Oct. 1. Naomi Jamboretz will be managing the program for the fall season. The duo will collaborate in forming a new chapter for Lake Forest Sailing.

Ortiz Vivas can’t wait to put sailboats into Lake Michigan. “I continue sailing because every time I step on the water, it feels new,” Ortiz Vivas said. “Sailing is such a complete and dynamic sport that no two days are ever the same.” To learn more about Lake Forest Parks & Recreation's Sailing Program, click here.