Crew Practice

Well, we spent saturday on the water practicing kayak rotation on Jim's boat. The Lutak Cat (Jim's boat) is well suited for the needs of the kayakers. The 29' catamaran has a lift in the front that was designed to drive 4-wheelers off when on shore. This lift is ideal for kayakers to get on and off the boat, as it lowers right into the water. With just a few rotations Alain and Tania (our kayakers) were pretty comfortable with the system.

But, it hasn't been tested on rough water yet. I am learning that my ability to handle rough water can sometimes surpass my kayakers ability to do the same. Thus we will most likely be using a zodiac to pace me when the conditions start to get rough.

We all got a look at the Arcturus. This is Terry's boat. It has room for 8 in the lower area of the boat. It has some large deck space and a large galley area. So I am hoping that Terry will commit to the entire trip. Right now it seems he is about 75% committed.

Between the Arcturus and Lutak Cat, we should be set on meeting the needs of the crew and the safety of the swim.

We had Matt Davis (local photographer) and some high school students (shooting video) along with us. It was nice to have everyone out together - made the upcoming swim all the more real and served as a good motivator.

I reckon everyone was waiting to see me swim. I can see how it would be exciting, but after an hour or so, I figured their enthusiasm would wear off. I swam for almost 2 hours while we were out. When I got out of the water everyone seemed pumped up. I guess the realization that this is really going to happen is starting to sink in. It's only 3 weeks away.

Boy do we need funding. The Lutak Cat burns alot of fuel. Hopefully we'll be able to conserve as much as possible, but it is still going to take some money to make this swim happen. If you'd like to help go to our support page to donate.

Well, lot's to do in the coming weeks. I will keep you posted.