Professional sailor Joe Spooner holds the position of “grinder” during a big race. He’s among the biggest and brawniest guys on the boat — compared to an offensive lineman on a football team — who operate manual winches to raise and trim the sails and move the boom using brute strength.
Spooner is one of the best grinders in the world — winner of two America’s Cup championships and training to win a third for the New York Yacht Club American Magic team in 2021.
“Grinder” also seems a fitting description for Spooner’s other occupation, slinging portable restrooms and driving out
