Hello all, I have been lurking for some time as I learn more, plan a new business (that involves Hobies, tours, and other fun stuff), and just generally plotting what type of trouble I can get myself into next. I have learned a lot from the excellent people here, and I would like to take the opportunity to thank them all for all I have gained. I hope down the line, I will be able to help return the favor and offer useful posts myself. It is perhaps not ideal then, that one of my first posts has to ask for help, rather than offer it. And for this help that I am speaking to Florida members specifically.
To the help: I have been intending to enter the Water Tribe's Everglades Challenge for over 8 months now as I find it very fascinating. Unfortunately, due to all the difficulties, delays, and other issues with starting a new business, I did not get my TI ordered when I would like and might not get the boat before the end of the month. Even if I do, arranging to transport it from Phoenix to Florida might be near on impossible and the deadline to register for the race is coming in a week. Is there anyone in Florida who has a TI and is signed up to do the race without a second crewman? If so, I would be honored if I could be your second on the boat. I will list some of my experience below, and will be happy to answer any and all questions since I know it's a big request to let a stranger join you for 300 miles through ocean, wilderness and everything else. If there isn't anyone entered with a TI who still needs a front seat spray shield (hey, I'm begging so I know my place!
), then is there anyone in the area who would be willing to rent/charter/loan/somehow provide me an AI or TI for the week so I could do the race without too complicated logistics? I know that's an even a bigger request, and I would be fine with just about any collateral or whatever necessary.
About me, I am 30, a life long sailor, kayaker, outdoors-man, camper and adventurer. I have sailed everything from little skiffs to Hobie Cats to 41 foot Newports and participated in a number of adventure races in the past (approximately 10 years ago). I am an Eagle Scout, still active as an adult leader in Troop 41 where I teach orienteering/navigation and safety skills. I was trained as a lifeguard and wilderness first aid provider, and I believe in safety first. I have been away from the world of expeditioning and adventure travel, but am looking to get back in a big way. My plan was to run the EC this year to get a feel for it, see what works and what doesn't, and bring my TI back next year to run the Ultimate Florida Challenge with some knowledge and directly applicable experience under my belt. Since I might not have a boat in time, sure I could say I will just skip the EC this year, but that means that next year I have to do a much bigger race semi-blind and I don't like that. Essentially I have left myself in a bind which is not something that normally occurs with me and I am looking for a clean solution out of it. Any thoughts?
I believe I will be a valuable part of a two man team on a TI if I should have the honor. When it comes to the Hobie Kayaks, I do have experience as well. Some friends in Mexico have a couple of AI's and I have used them frequently in the Sea of Cortez over the last year. Just to preempt though, no, I can't take one of theirs out to the race because I would have to have it for more than two weeks all told and during their prime season to boot. I am obviously not as familiar with the TI (having not sailed one yet), but I assume that the AI experience will transfer pretty quickly. In any case, that's about all I can think of so far. If anyone has a lead to help me still do this race this year, please get in touch with me quick. Posting here is good (and Mods, I hope this isn't inappropriate, I couldn't find any specific rules that said I can't post this, but if I missed anything, I am sorry), or please do feel free to call me at (602) 628-4327 if you have unlimited long distance like I do. If you don't, PM me your contact info. Thank you for taking time to read the whole thing, and happy sailing!.... peddling!.... fishing..... kayaking....
OK, these boats are too versatile for any of those verbs! How about happy adventuring to represent all these great boats can do?
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