About the Founder

Dr. Phil Haydon is the founder of Offshore Shorthanded Academy (OSA), combining his passion for offshore sailing with a distinguished career in neuroscience and sleep research.

An Emeritus Professor of Neuroscience at Tufts University School of Medicine, Phil is internationally recognized for his pioneering work on how the brain regulates sleep as well as learning and memory. His research knowledge of the control of sleep translates directly to offshore sailing, where decision-making, fatigue management, and risk assessment determine outcomes.

Beyond academia, Phil is an accomplished offshore sailor and campaigner. He races and trains extensively aboard his Jeanneau Sun Fast 3300, Fearless, competing in solo and doublehanded offshore events recently winning the doublehanded division in the 2024 Newport to Bermuda race. His sailing experience spans coastal and blue-water passages, including an Atlantic crossing.

Phil founded OSA to bridge science and seamanship — bringing evidence-based strategies for fatigue management, cognitive performance, and systems thinking into practical offshore training. His approach emphasizes preparation, simplicity, early problem detection, and the mindset required to sail safely and confidently with minimal crew.

Through Offshore Shorthanded Academy, Phil aims to equip sailors — from ambitious novices to experienced racers — with the skills, judgment, and resilience required to thrive offshore.

courtesy Bill Shea