Wind forecast graphic for Noon on Saturday.Well both SB and team Dawn Patrol (SOS & DWSB) should have launched by now (barring any problems getting off the beach). Dawn Patrol obviously has the greater challenge there with an estimated +500 empty weight, then plus gear equals very heavy! To launch they are using 3 industrial strength, 1 foot diameter, approximately 4 feet long, inflatable tubes. Each tube is capable of supporting 600kg (that’s 1300 lbs. each)! 1300 lbs. multiplied by 3 should equal no problem getting Dawn Patrol in the water. And the best part is that they compact very well into a hatch with the simple opening of the valve.
I haven’t heard anything from the competitors, and still nothing from the WaterTribe website.
The Tampa Bay crossing is critical. First you have to deal with the high boat density, then a shoal just off the beach. After you get by the shoal you’re out in the open water…where the big cargo ships loom. Oh yeah and if the winds are up you have to deal with major surf! I’d say the biggest decision that you have to make is whether or not to stay inside and cruise in the calmer winds of the Intracostal Waterway (ICW), or to race on the outside where conditions can be brutal. Given the conditions this year I have a feeling most, if not all, of the sailors opted for the outside.
I’ll be sure to let post as soon as I hear word from the water.
