Bill Biewenga
Bill was born and raised in Chicago. After enlisting in the Marine Corps, Bill volunteered for duty in Vietnam. Upon his return, he received a Bachelor's Degree in History form North Central College in Illinois.
After working as a general contractor, Bill started a concrete business with his brother. After three years, Biewenga Brothers Concrete Company grew into a multi-million dollar venture, but struggled during the recession in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Bill rebuilt the company, then left to pursue a sailing career.
Bill has sailed over 200,000 sea-miles including three Whitbread Around-the-World Races and 14 transatlantic voyages. He was worked as a weather-router, the person who sends advice on the weather to boats racing at sea. He also brings a published skill in both writing and photography to Great American II.
On shore he trains for ocean voyages by running three to five miles a day, five days a week. He also works out in a weight room at least three days a week, concentrating on cardiovascular and upper body exercise.
Bill has worked on several teams. His efforts on a high school wrestling team, service as a Corporal in the Marine Corps, work as a contractor, and experience with countless crews at sea has prepared him for his role on the Ocean Challenge team.