On A Sailing High

MediaCorp Artiste Darren Lim has come a long way in his career - and private life as led in the spotlight. Copious lines have been written about him and his marriage to Evelyn Tan, the birth of their baby Kristen, and about the 'taming' of erstwhile bad boy Darren into the quintessential family man. What's lesser known, though, is the man and his passions that go untracked behind the cameras. Belinda Au Yong discovers more about this maverick…

Darren joined us for the Day Skipper Course* in August this year, bringing his 10-year interest in sailing up one notch. The freedom associated with being out at sea, and the mastery over a craft in all conditions are universal feelings that pique his interest. Setting sail in one's own keelboat can be a most liberating experience, and his continued passion for sailing comes as no surprise. Although the numerous names for the equipment on board sent Darren into a tizzy, he came out of it with glowing memories and assured all that he had fun, first and foremost.

The holder of a Powered Pleasure Craft Driving Licence, Darren hopes to own his own boat by 2014 - tongue firmly in cheek, "I've got to wait until my fourth kid is 5". That's the addition of 1 kid to the brood per year. Very carefully calculated - one can only wonder if this is a unilateral decision!

The goal of buying his own boat aside, there are many other interests Darren pursues. He counts flying, archery and horse-riding amongst his varied interests. Observing his boundless energy for new experiences, I cannot help but think his career is going anywhere but into the sunset. Here's wishing you all the best Darren! And when you get that coveted boat, do us the honour of anchoring her right here in the club.

Photographs courtesy of John Heng.

What lies yonder…?	Figuring out the workings of the boat.

Listening enraptured as instructor Mr Rupert Ong explains the finer points of keelboating.

Trying his hand at untangling a knotty issue.