2003 (post race) Archives
I really hate to do this, but when people start intentionally posting bogus information to the board, I have to take some action. I have the options of simply ignoring the postings, banning the original poster, or shutting down the board.
I choose to ban Mike Stinson
The exceptions were Cornfield Cut Off and Blue Bayou between Victoria and the Dupont Plant. We decided to outlaw these cuts because too many folks had gotten hopelessly lost using them, and because it made it very hard to afford any type of search and rescue protocol if these cuts were allowed.
If there is some sort of cut that requires a portage to enter, and the flow at that point is from a creek into the river (and not from the river into the creek) I would certainly rule it illegal. If, on the other hand, river water is flowing through this cut, I would be wise to find it. I will say that I spent a lot of time as a Safari judge watching illegal cuts during the race, and I would not advise anyone to be tempted to use one. Our plan, back in those days, was to stay hidden (if possible) and not disqualify the team until they reached the flagpole.
Finally, regarding Traylor Cut. Traylor Cut is the big wide channel that goes left about 30 minutes to an hour (depending on if you're a Minor or not) downstream of Tivoli. It is not the little channel that goes right - that channel is the actual river. The Army Corps of Engineers dug the left channel for reasons that I will leave to them. It has always been quite legal to take Traylor Cut and it has actually been a favorite place for solo paddlers to go. Something draws them into it. It has, I believe, not saved any of them much time.
I am trying to figure out where you are coming from on the issue of cuts. You describe the "Burkhalter Cut" as follows (taken verbatim from your earlier post)
"The Burkhalter Cut between Hocheim and Cheapside is an intermittent stream that a couple of pieces of plywood manage to get jammed up in the creek about 50 yards upstream from the its confluence with the Guadalupe usually about 3 or 4 days before the race, backing it up for about 3/4's of a mile making it navigable. The water, after backing up, starts to flow through an old channel cut that has been reworked with probably with a front end loader and flows back into the Guadalupe downstream."
What I read into this is that someone is deliberately cheating by creating an artificial waterway. My question to you is, do you think that taking such a cut is fair and proper?
If anyone were to ceate and/or go over a purpose-made plywood dam to access this "cut" I think that the appropriate remedy is disqualification.
Regarding Traylor cut, as Russ noted this cut is clearly allowed and specifically identified in the rules. I will argue that it is not a cut but one of two branches of the river. It had flow in 1996 which is a pretty good indicator of the nature of the waterway.
Another topic. I don't know if hugs and kisses are legal. I hugged my kids at DuPont in clear view of about 75 people including the Cowboy team. I don't know if this provided my team with a competitive advantage but it sure felt good and noone protested.
Direct link:
1. The use of cuts. As Head Race Judge last year my interpretation would have been that it is illegal to paddle up stream on a dammed up creek to a point where it dumps back into the river due to over flow. The rules state: For any “shortcut” to be legal, it must have a flow of river water through it. The river is not flowing through the cut described (a creek is), so it would be illegal and grounds for disqualification. Thanks for the exact position of the illegal cut, I will make sure that the race committe is informed of its location.
2. Going over Martindale Dam in a canoe. For the outcome to be successful, the river must be at the correct level and the canoe must slide down the back of the dam sideways. There is definitely rebar protruding from the dams structure and below the dam. Going over the dam at the wrong spot could result in serious damage to a canoe and or paddler. Though I have done it both solo and tandem, I cannot recommend it. There once was an Aluminum class team that used to go over Martindale Dam in races. Due to the risk involved it was made illegal to do during races.
P.S. I won't reveal her true age but Braye was flattered by the "young" mother coment
I'm not sure how many of you know about this but at just after 9am, as I was standing on the Westerfield(I think) bridge watching the Jr Safari boats go by, I could hear a vehicle comming WAY too fast, I looked left (river right) just in time to see a young mother scrambling franticly to get herself and a young toddler out of the way of a teenage idiot who decided that the speed limit sign didn't apply to him, and that paying attention to the road was optional. My kudos to that women who moved faster than I think I've seen anyone move, I sincerely hope she didn't have as many nightmares about the incident as I did... Be carefull out there. The woman and child were standing about where the back seat of the Suburban is in the picture. I'm still amazed no one was hurt.. Be carefull out there!!!
(please note the driver is still in the truck, the gentleman who's back is to the camera was standing next to me when the idiot almost killed a young mother and her toddler and himself and his passenger) -- Bruce
Thanks for all contributions ! CaptJack <captjack@ev1.netX> - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 17:55:37 (CDT) Well...this is funny, I know...but my wife refuses to go with me to the junior safari. She says I'm an old man and should start acting like one. Not likely to happen any day soon. As a result I'm looking for a shuttle, or someone who can drive my pickup, or otherwise get me to my pickup at/or from Staples Dam on saturday. If anyone is interested, or if there is a commercial shuttle, please let me know on the board or by email. One thing to note is that I will be last...so the truck will need to be left there until I finally arrive. Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@texaspaddler.com> - Monday, September 15, 2003 at 17:31:35 (CDT) Anyone know what's up with whetstone@kayakstore.com. I ordered a custom paddle from them, then their website went down. Then their phoneline went down. Phone line is back up but can't get anyone to return my call! Anyone know if they are moving locations or just bad with customer service? Alan <apickett@soe.sony.com> - Friday, September 12, 2003 at 11:19:10 (CDT) RE: the post below about dry land training... My training when doing TWS should NOT be taken as a good example; on-water practice was usually limited. I think it helped to sit by the edge of a swimming pool and circulate the water. The motion is slower than paddling but tougher resistance; it toughens the hands on the grip as well. Spend some time turned both directions to keep it balanced. Most of my trouble in the race was in the back. A lot of exercises can improve posture and strengthen the back; do some research or talk to a physical therapist or trainer. Stretching the hamstrings and piriformis (butt muscle) also helps with hip positioning and lower back endurance. Foot brace positioning figures in here as well. Work up slow and steady; avoid injuries. Good luck. Rod Ellis <freman2@aol.com> - Friday, September 12, 2003 at 06:09:50 (CDT) Marek, I too enjoy your site very much. Every time you include a link to it in a post, I find myself sifting through there for far too long. thanks for all the hard work on it. Thunder Sellers - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 14:25:33 (CDT) A couple of ideas for comfortable, light seats: Last year Dave Bartell made one by shaping single-cell foam (by sanding). It looked great, was light (floatation, actually), and worked great. I believe the world's most comfortable canoe seat (kayaks?)(recommended for people with butt bone/tailbone injuries, or whose butts hurt) derives from the idea of quality recreational canoe seats, namely the cross-hatched canvas strap seats. Can easily make one, very light, from a folding lawn chair -- reinforce the straps. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 11:22:25 (CDT) I believe Randy may be up in the mountains at present, soon to return. I'll shoot him an email. He has a great boat. 2 of them, actually. Fast. Comfortable. He stands in it to scout the river ahead, nonchalantly sits back down. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 11:12:52 (CDT) Marek: I continue to find new and interesting things on your site. You've done a great job on it. It is invaluable for people like me getting information and doing research on different aspects of paddling...like marathon racing. I saw Randy Johnson's canoe before the start of the safari. The more I look at it the more I like the basic hull shape. I would like to get more information on that hull. Maybe he'll see this and shoot me an email. The cockpit on my kayak is 22 X 39. I make a bigger cockpit for the next boat. Maybe not wider, but definately longer. I like the designing and building at least as much, probably more, than the paddling. I'm having a heck of a time in designing a comfortable seat that doesn't weigh 50 pounds. The current seat incarnation looks, and acts, like a lazy boy recliner. Back to the drawing board. Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@texaspaddler.com> - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 09:59:49 (CDT) I have a couple of Doug's Pax20 pictures in my 2003 safari report and probably one more in the story from the last year. As a builder of CLC Patuxent 19.5 I would like to have much bigger and more open cockpit for the safari allowing easier getting out and in at portages and other obstacles. I did some safari training with my Patuxent on San Marcos and Guadelupe during TWS 2001 but I am running the safari in Spencer X-treme. There were several CLC and Pygmy stitch-and-glue kayaks in previous safaris. What wooden canoe Randy Jonhson paddles? Anybody has some details on that boat Hey Gerald, I'm planing on making the meet in Oct.,I plan on bringing both boats(Pax 20 & Lt17).Trying to finish the Lt up now(down to combing & rudder ect...).There are some design changes I'd like to make(on the pax),but I'm not sure if I should'nt just build another...probably be better off.I think I'll loft this one myself.ahh these addictions I have...boatbuilding & the safari...at least they work together! See ya in Oct.! Doug Rhude Doug Rhude <Riverrat62@msn.com> - Thursday, September 11, 2003 at 09:36:25 (CDT) Doug: Thanks for your comments on the wooden boats. I have already seen a few areas I need to redesign and reinforce on wood boats...though the basic strength is holding up ok. I need to add more puncture and abrasion resistance. There are a lot of good designs around, but I like to design my own...and add what I think is needed. I believe I saw your boat before the Safari...upside down on the grass. I was wandering around like a kid in a candy store. I would certainly be interested in hearing your views on what you would redesign on your boat...and what other things you'd like to have had. And...I am the guy organizing the Texas Kayak Builder's mini-Bash in October. It is not just for kayaks, but canoes, wherrys, whitehalls, etc, any paddled, or rowed handmade, unusual, or highly adapted craft. There is also a possiblility that a wood racing kayak may show up. I'll work on that one a bit more (can you hear me now...Lee?). It would be nice to see some safari boats there. I hope you'll consider showing up with your Pax 20. I'd love to see it up close and pick your brain. Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@texaspaddler.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 20:26:28 (CDT) Uh!Oh!talk of wooden boats on the safari board.Gerald,have you looked at any CLC(Chesapeak Light Craft)boats? They just discontinued their WR 180(very hard tracking)& redesigned it with more rocker,now it's called WR 18,very fast boat..supposedly more manuverable...of course it is a multi-chine. they do have the Chesapeak models with hard chine,& some Greenland style boats...if you like that snout up in the air!I'm the guy that paddles that Pax 20 on the safari..fast boat & glides forever,but it's a little tippy with a 19 1/2" beam.Research is everything! good luck on picking out a boat! looking forward to your post when you're choice is made. I'm building a 17Lt for the wife(Team Captain),a little TC insentive or insurance ever how you look at it,I'll be good for another year(I hope)! Oh yea,there is supposed to be a wooden boat builders meet at Festival Beach on Town Lake in Austin on Oct.26 '03 from 1:pm till 5:pm.Might see somthing interesting there!at least these are builders & not salespeople (hopefully).mabey I'll see ya' there! ahh well good luck to ya' Doug Rhude 3/2 solo's.....just not very fast....but loads of fun! this is fun ain't it? D.R. Doug Rhude <Riverrat62@msn.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 19:57:25 (CDT) Gerald, keep us posted on what you decide to build. I think the biggest chalange for a kayak is the weight factor, the deck just adds too much weight. From what I've seen of some of the unlimiteds, they kind of look like kayak bottoms with a couple inches added to the sides... As far as moving water skills... brace, brace, brace.... go into the rapid slightly healed over to one side with the paddle in the water on that side, that way when/if the boat looses stability you will be ready since it's most likely to tip the way your already leaning. kind of like when you ride a large motorcycle and approach a stop sign, you purposly lean one way so you KNOW which way your gonna fall, but that foot is already stuck out. I too have entertained building a boat for the TWS, i'm building a stripper Wee Lassie for my wife (who is WAY under the wee lassie's wieght limit), and I'm experimenting using 1/8" strips to save wieght. Not so much for the wee lassie, as it's small enough to be light regardless, but to see how it holds up when I build my 18'+ tandem canoe. On boat design if your determined to do it in a kayak to over to http://www.kayakforum.com/cgi-bin/Building/index.cgi and review the posts, ask around etc. Feel free to email me to colaborate on designs. Bruce <tx_brew@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 18:51:41 (CDT) Thunder: I've never ran a marathon race in my life....paddling or running, and now my knees eliminate the possibility of running a marathon...not that I would anyway. I've built a lot of boats over the years, but only recently got back into building them...and even paddling. Making a living got in the way of having fun. Anyway my kayak is a strip built 28" wide 16' long kind of canoish kayak that I designed and built to fish, explore, and generally paddle around in. After making two runs from San Marcos to Staples, not withstanding my swift water skill level (which at this point seems to be woefully lacking), I know I can do better, AND I know I can build a boat (for me) better suited to that endeavor. Capt Jack mentioned the Safari to me. After investigation I've decided that I will do it. However...shades of John Stockwell (whom I respect greatly because of his exploits, perserverance, and willingness to share information)...I have no illusions concerning where I will place. I do dream though. I will plan, practice, compete...and generally get in the way. But...I will be there. Everybody around here thinks I'm crazy. My wife refuses to captain (I'm in the same boat some of the other guys are), in fact she won't even show up at any of the races...including the junior safari in a week and a half. So...if I haven't made a year long (actually 15 month) commitment...then I don't know what one is. One interesting note: On the last safari...when I was standing watching the canoes get wrapped on the rocks I was talking to a nice woman and her daughter. She mentioned that her husband was one of the race officials, and that he had done the safari many times. Her daughter also mentioned that she had done it when she was 16. I had no idea who they were...still don't...but I have suspicions. Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 12:59:08 (CDT) Gerald, what kind of kayak did you run it in last year. Define "modified expedition/fishing". Just curious. Thunder Sellers <jason_sellers@intuit.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 12:04:30 (CDT) Interesting posts. Since I've discovered that my lightly adapted fishing/expedition kayak doesn't particularly like swift water...and is not particularly fast (I'm ignoring the fact that the kayak is powered by a wheezing old one lunger motor)...I am going to build another kayak for next year. For a lot of reasons it will have to be a hard chine S&G. Anyway...since everything has been done before...and I have a propensity for reinventing the wheel...I'm hoping that some people with more knowledge of running the safari will what attributes I need to design into the boat, or point me at some boats that have the necessary attributes. Certainly I can buy one but that defeats my goal of reinventing the wheel. What makes a boat handle rough and/or swift water and still be fast while doing it? and fast on flatwater? Within the limits of S&G construction I'm open to any and all suggestions and comments. I know...I know....I can just see all the heads shaking and the lips moving, "...here comes another water dog..." But...aint this a blast?...and at least I'm not considering a pedaled craft. Are there pictures of these "Landick" boats that were mentioned earlier? Truth be told, I love Verlin Kruger's Dreamcatcher. If I could get plans and offsets on it I'd build a strip built and set it up the best way I could. I freely admit that this marathon stuff is new to me. I have a lot to learn. If you see an old guy studying your boat and/or technique...and furiously sketching out designs...just humor me. I'll wander off in a minute. Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 10:58:38 (CDT) Mikes predicament leads me to a question. Does anybody have any good dryland exercises that work those safari muscles on days you can't make it out on the water? If Mike wants to attempt the safari again but can't spend 4+ hours every weekend to train, how can he build up paddling endurance, strength, and/or efficiency? Or just in general for myself, is there anything people do in between trips to the lake or river that helps with paddling? Obviously time on the water is best but sometimes that can be limited. Any idea would help but especially if geared towards the following: novice paddler, single blade paddle, aluminum boat David Clark <dclark18_no_spam_please@austin.rr.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 09:58:46 (CDT) Oh yeah and if you aren't able to make it I have been entertaining thoughts of goining solo next year. Then I can say that I am 2/2 with 1 solo and you wont be. And we all know that the only finishes that count are the solos. Mike Clark <clark0612@juno.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 08:30:04 (CDT) David, I was thinking and maybe I should just go for it next year. Even though I will not be able to train that much. I know we could finish without the training but can we beat our previous time. There is no way that I am going to let you rub it in that you are 2/2 and I am 1/1, so lets do it. Im in for next year. Id rather sleep in a cramped aluminum with a paddle sticking me in the back all night then show my face in seadrift having slept in a queen size bed. Mike Clark <clark0612@juno.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 08:25:05 (CDT) David, I was thinking and maybe I should just go for it next year. Even though I will not be able to train that much. I know we could finish without the training but can we beat our previous time. There is no way that I am going to let you rub it in that you are 2/2 and I am 1/1, so lets do it. Im in for next year. Id rather sleep in a cramped aluminum with a paddle sticking me in the back all night then show my face in seadrift having slept in a queen size bed. Mike Clark <clark0612@juno.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 08:24:59 (CDT) Thing about designing a new Safari boat (apart from the fact that most of it has been tried before) is that the history of new Safari boats is littered with as many "hogs" as great successes. Actually, also, "the Great Landick" interestingly experimented with sponsons to make his su more stable, then came out with the "Landick 2" which is a more comfortable, higher-volume, somewhat slower su. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, September 10, 2003 at 08:16:24 (CDT) Mike, don't pay attention to Jeremy. As my captain you'll be sleeping in the bed of my Toyota (I may even throw in a thin pillow and a comforter), you'll take your showers in the river, and I'll even let you clean the boat at Seadrift. To top it off I'll brag all the home that I'm 2/2 and your only 1/1. As my captain you'll suffer right along with me. Think of it as training for the 2005. Jeremy can offer you luxury but I know you'll choose the less glamorous route. After all, I'm your brother. David Clark <dclark18_no_spam_or_viruses_please@austin.rr.com> - Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 20:59:34 (CDT) M P:Although your suggestions are greatly appreciated, they would be of no use. Last year I rented a 26ft RV so she could captain in stlye, convinced her sister and her husband to tag along and drive the RV and I even rigged our canoe with 1 gallon jugs instead of the 1/2 gallons so she would only have to re-supply the water every other check point. Believe me very few captains have had it so easy but the stress of the race was too much. Our daughter had just turned 2 a few days before the race and she got into ants pretty bad at Staples and was quite a handful. We were also the team that wrapped at Cottonseed for about an hour and to try to make up time I pushed my bowman too hard and by Palmetto he was dehydrated, disoriented, and pucking his guts out (all my wife could think about was me being in the same situation) Unfortunately some people aren't cut out for the Safari, its not their falt, some people are just born that way. They are missing the Safari gene. MIKE and STEPHEN: Thanks for the partial commitments. As I said before; on my team the Captain goes in style! Jeremy <bdanson@austin.rr.com> - Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 18:17:42 (CDT) Jeremy, Its a little to early to commit to it but I may be looking for a team to captain next year. Me and my brother finished this year but me and my wife are having a baby soon and I (she) decided that with a new kid in the house I wont be able to put in the training time to really race efficiently. I have been given permission to captain though. If my brother races I will be captaining for him but he is not sure that he will be able to. I will check with him again and if not then I will be a free agent and anyone can sign me as their captain. So keep me in mind.. Mike Clark <clark0612@juno.com> - Tuesday, September 09, 2003 at 08:14:41 (CDT) JEREMY : Can't help you except in the advice dept. Try buying your wife a new vehicle ( that is suitable for TC duty). Maybe even a nice accurate watch sprinkled w/ diamonds ( bankrunning is NOT a girl's best friend ). Your spouse sounds like an intelligent person... now you must pay the price for marrying someone smarter than yourself ! But then again I'm 2 for 2 in Safari but 0 for 2 in marriage...a natural soloist. M P Simmons <mps@ktc.com> - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 16:01:51 (CDT) Actually, Russ, it's more confusing than what you have presented. There are two Pecan Parks, Pecan Park RV's (my neighbor) and Pecan Park Retreat. Then there is a Shady Grove Campground (Spencer Canoes). And then, to really confuse the issue, there was a Pecan Grove Campground (it's the one that used to be at Hochheim and is closed now). I haven't seen any sign of life at Hochheim lately, so I'm assuming they are still closed. Tom Goynes <goynes@centurytel.net> - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 08:52:21 (CDT) Matt: I assume you are trying to reach Tom and Paula Goynes. There are, I believe, 2 "Pecan Groves" and I think the other one is right next door to them. Theirs is Pecan Park "Retreat," not to be confused with Pecan Park "Campground." Not sure what number you were using but I believe the following info from the official TWS site is still correct: Tom Goynes 512-392-6171 Goynes@centurytel.net www.pecanparkretreat.com Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Monday, September 08, 2003 at 07:31:35 (CDT) Is a team captain required for the Jr? And speaking of team captains, my partner Mike and I are looking for a new captain for next years' races. My wife has decided it was too much for her and is not planning on helping out next year. We don't think any of our friends are reliable enough to trust so we are looking for someone with experience. We are willing to pay expenses and insure you have AC, a hot shower, and a soft bed for the race. Thanks Jeremy <bdanson@austin.rr.com> - Sunday, September 07, 2003 at 21:38:16 (CDT) Yo Fumar, I plan rolling up some time before noon & spill some Bud on yer memorial. MMSimmons <878simmons@ev1.net> - Saturday, September 06, 2003 at 20:19:17 (CDT) Anyone know how to get in touch with Pecan Grove Campground? The number on their website doesnt want to work. Thanks Matt... Matt Watson <watsonjm@tamu.edu> - Friday, September 05, 2003 at 13:55:43 (CDT) Henry: I have read your post on lightning and have only one question: Watt? Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Friday, September 05, 2003 at 13:03:24 (CDT) El Fumaro : Have you guys got the seat from ole # 9 encased in lexan yet - or are you still using it for a rolling tray ? M P Simmons <mps@ktc.com> - Friday, September 05, 2003 at 02:34:15 (CDT) Since all of the electronic interfaces at work aren't interfacing and in lieu of a personal meltdown, I will shed some light on lightning. Carbon is a semi-conductor and aluminum is a conductor. Point charges are what gets things going. The shortest gap between the clouds and the earth with the highest amount and accumulation of electric charge is what gets the jolt. A pointed object accumulates a higher percentage of charge than a sphere. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 16:46:29 (CDT) Lee: I sincerely hope you get the K4 fixed. I was thinking you, Spain, Youens, and I could use it to perform a reasonable imitation of the "Thresher." rdrekl@texas.net <Uncle Russ> - Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 12:25:58 (CDT) Colin, thank you. These annual sprint races have proven to be a lot of fun for those who participate. Since there are 14 individual races on the day's schedule you will get your money's worth and go home nice and tired. Sprint racing is all about who is fastest. No multi-man boats, secret portages, snakebites, rose colored recall, erroneous third hand information, illegal drugs or dubious potions to confuse things. The various distances: 200, 500 and 1000 meters will yield different results so there is incentive to try different races. The Three Legged Willie is a fun test of overall paddling and portaging skills. One disclaimer, the K-4 fun race may not come off unless someone sends me a boat mechanic who does house calls. I have two boats needing repair and no time to fix them. Lee Lee Deviney <txpaddler@aol.com> - Thursday, September 04, 2003 at 00:26:50 (CDT) With all this flashbacking to safari's past and histionic statements it sounds to me like you are all in need of some therapeutic racing. It just so happens that Lee is running a small Regatta at town lake Austin on Saturday. We can all Practice our "getaway" starts for the Junior in real conditions. Lee organises an event for all types of people and boats with the bonus "3 legged willie" event. Plus it looks like the weather should be good so come along. The races are short and numerous. At the end we can all try out different boats, surf skis, spencers, C1, K2 K4, C2. see you there for some race therepy. Colin Grimshaw <cagandjepm@earthlink.net> - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 22:51:20 (CDT) POINTED HOOTIE et al : Did I not qualify my statement by admitting it may be prejudicial ? While certainly intending no slight to Mssr's Dunn, Goynes, Mynar, or Bugge, I maintain that " My little brother can beat your little brother". No fair Tommy - you have TWO ! A little slow but still batting 1000... M P Simmons <heaintheavy@hesmybro.com> - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 16:48:41 (CDT) Let's have an "all against all" wrestling match before the safari. That should level the playing field between the fat boys and the scrawny guys with baggy tights. fantz crazznapper <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 16:27:32 (CDT) how about a SOLO (Unlimited & C-1) ONLY race to Corpus. As Devo might say- a "Gut Check" run.... CaptJack <captjack@ev1.netX> - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 16:24:37 (CDT) Hey, Devo! Several years back Polecat and John Dunn made the run to Corpus leaving after the banquet. Then the year after that John Dupont joined them for a run to Freeport during which Bill snuggled up to a rattlesnake on one of the barrier islands. I'm sorry to have missed those trips but very glad I didn't go. They all say they were great fun. Apparently some years back a Safari finished in Port Lavaca, but Tom can confirm or put the lie to that rumor. John Mark Harras <JohnMarkHarras@pzlqs.com> - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 10:17:53 (CDT) RE: short boats. Matt Layden published his story of doing 300 miles Lake Michigan Challenge in a 10' boat: The Michigan Challenge in a Bubble; or, "What Was He Thinking?". An interesting analysis of a short boat performance in a long distance expedition race. Also three more interesting reports from other challengers. Marek <uliasz_at_frii.com> - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 10:15:12 (CDT) Tom Goynes! with his decades of solo and tandem runs and wins and leadership in environmental issues. Bugge with his decades of solo and tandem and long boat runs and wins and boat building and design. Jay Daniels and Jack and Mike designing and building winning Safari boats. Robert Youens, fiercely competitive, solo, tandem, teaching the seminar. Pat Petrisky with the reversible paddle/ row boats... Roger Zimmerman paddling the first Safari, returning to capture the "Oldest Solo" title, then finishing at 65. Linda Cochran for making "it" happen year after year. Fuzzy's snakebite. Dan Miller finishing Palmetto to the pavilion alone in an alum. The "Steppe Strap." Randy Johnson's 5 dnf's then a finish! CLEARLY WE NEED TO CREATE A SAFARI HALL OF FAME, EACH WITH PHOTOS AND ANECDOTES... ?IN THE MUSEUM IN SEA DRIFT? THIS, THINKING AHEAD 100, 500 YEARS WHEN THIS RACE WILL UNDOUBTEDLY STILL BE RUNNING. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 08:41:46 (CDT) It would be great to have a “commemorative” run to either Freeport or Corpus. Dumping out into the gulf for a serious salt water paddle adds a whole new dimension to the race! What about it TWS? James H. "devo" DeVoglaer <j.devoman@verizon.net> - Wednesday, September 03, 2003 at 05:38:18 (CDT) Old Hoot - I understand your point but there was still two paddlers working as a team in the boat. I have heard that the run to Freeport was the hardest. Solo finishes mean the most. Here's another oldie but goodie link you should enjoy. This is from the first year of the Safari http://ops.tamu.edu/x075bb/safari/1stTWS.html point <counter@point.com> - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 16:13:29 (CDT) Dear Point, Counterpoint, Point, whatever...Records are a significant measure of performance. Which record(s) is most important is a matter of one's own perception. Unlike bowling where conditions should be consistent, Safari records and class wins are influenced by weather and who shows up in what. If you can't decide which measure means the most quantify records. A good place to start is here: http://ops.tamu.edu/x075bb/safari/trivia.html Perhaps what really counts is aluminum finishes to Corpus Christi. Old Hoot <Yo@bro.net> - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 14:25:33 (CDT) Henry, I was one of those posting wasp nest horrer stories, infact it was durring a jr safari several years ago within sight of Westerfield crossing on river left. My wife was at westerfield wondering why I was jumping from the canoe and flailing like a rabid octopus. My bowman's head had just hit a hornets nest and that next 1.2 seconds between impact with his head and when my face was in that exact spot still lingers in my mind. It still dumbfounds me to this day that my first reaction to my bowman's head hitting the hornets nest was (wow that's cool,then the coolnest was quickly lost in pain) And then I nearly flipped the canoe when my bowman looked back with the look of, why are you playing around. Roy =:-) Roy Lewis <wwildchild@aol.com> - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 14:01:34 (CDT) After 2 years of training and running the Safari course, I finally did it. This weekend I was stung by wasps. I remember someone commenting on how the person ahead, gets them excited and the person behind gets the surprise. I saw 2 nests before Westerfield. And I know how some Safari folks don't like tampering with the course, but you can consider those 2 nests gone before the Junior. One is head high and about the size of a softball, so be aware until I get back at them. And I wasn't as courageous as Devo, since I dropped my paddle to kill 2 out of the 3 wasps that stung me. I have been highly allergic since birth, but I guess flushing with river water helps immensely. Thirty minutes of pain and no swelling. Age must be good for something or else I was extremely fortunate. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 13:02:06 (CDT) Old Hoot- I disagree- The greatest Safari paddler will always be judged by solo finishes in 45 hours or less. Solo finishes are the only true measure of the individual athelete. It is definitely harder to finish in a C-1 than it is in a solo unlimited. point <counter@point.com> - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 10:35:37 (CDT) The Owl read that a certain paddler was the best safari paddler. The Owl appreciates his loyal brother but the choices for best safari paddler come from a short list. Cochran was under consideration until he lost points for inventing the world's heaviest canoe. Pat Oxsheer quit too soon to oar drunks down the Rio Grande. Joe Mynar won't get his face carved into the Cliffs of Palmetto until he wins the race with all of his children in the same boat at the same time. Landick fails to meet the "Old Man", five finish minimum criteria. Dunn has done everything except win the whole race by himself paddling a log. So, we're down to two choices until Al Widing wins again to celebrate his 80th birthday: Tom Goynes and John Bugge, both of whom have won the race several times and also many classes within the race for over 20 years. Hooter <wiseold@owl.com> - Tuesday, September 02, 2003 at 01:23:58 (CDT) Marek, we are laying up a new boat that we hope will combine some of the characteristics of the Advantage with the proximate efficiency of an XStream for me for Saf04. BTW, I am very much interested in your project to record the boats people have used in different Safaris. Should be very interesting. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Monday, September 01, 2003 at 17:27:38 (CDT) I have been in two terrible storms, both between Palmetto and Hochheim that lasted most of the night, and both with continuous cloud to ground lightning. I think I agree that it might be better to hunker down on shore at the bay, but on the river with huge trees on each side, my only somewhat educated thinking is that it is better to stay in the middle of the river and go on, using the trees on the sides as huge lightning rods--safer to stay away from them on the river than be directly under one or near one on the bank. With the life I have led, lightening is not a pleasant prospect in any event. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Sunday, August 31, 2003 at 15:18:53 (CDT) Gerald. Hardly a silly question. This last Safari I was unlucky enough to get caught in the huge thunderstorm that developed Monday afternoon in the vicinity of Tivoli and the bay. I was lucky enough not to get struck by the continuous lightning. What little coherency (and concern) I had left told me this was not a good situation but my options seemed few. Let's see: graphite boat, graphite double blade, on the water, inhospitable shoreline. I continued paddling, using the philosophy that the odds were in my favor. Stupid thinking when my truly best odds would be to get out of the water and crouch somewhere on shore (more than one person - spread out). I finally made it to the wooden bridge and waited it out under there for an hour. I probably left there too early because I was in a "hurry" and, again, that was stupid. Playing the odds isn't worth it - the consequences are pretty severe when you consider that it is 30 million volts attempting to dissipate after hitting the ground/water. Getting out of the water is probably always advisable - if you can't immediately, do what you have to do to stay upright and hurry. Which is a better conductor - graphite or aluminum? David Bartell <dbart@lcc.net> - Sunday, August 31, 2003 at 09:52:07 (CDT) I don't know if this is a silly question...or not...but what do the racers in the Safari do when a lightning storm start crashing down around you while you're paddling on the water? Funny how one can overlook something like this until the question just "boings" late one night. I don't mind paddling in the rain, but since I plan on living past 100 I have no desire to become a crispy critter. Don't worry if you have no answer to this question. I have at least a thousand more that I'm sure somebody can answer. Real simple ones like...what line to take in the swift water to avoid the sweepers...and the bank... and especially the huge old cypress trees. Having been in a lot of swift water when I was younger...a few years ago...I've discovered that there is a difference in seeking out the rough water to play in as apposed to getting through it clean and fast. I am learning a lot. Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@texaspaddler.com> - Saturday, August 30, 2003 at 22:05:05 (CDT) James: Could not have put it better. (In fact I didn't.) C.J. I think Robert Youens has done much the same, and am virtually certain it was Martindale, although I couldn't swear to it. Seems to me he tried it on one occasion and had a problem with some rebar? (Step in and elaborate Robert.) I certainly am gutless enough never to try it although it may not be as dangerous as one might imagine. I have heard it said there is no true hydraulic below that dam although I suspect that is only at some water levels and to reiterate, no way I would run it. I think that is the location where a kayaker appeared to be caught without his paddle in the "hydraulic" and the "rescuers" from San Antonio would not listen to one who knew better and instead insisted on picking the exhausted paddler up by helicopter, then promptly dropped him to his death. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Saturday, August 30, 2003 at 18:04:16 (CDT) I noticed an earlier posting regarding high water paddling and thought I would dump in a quick thought. High water is tons of fun to paddle, however, you really need to know the section you are paddling and make sure that you are keenly aware of obstacles above (tree limbs, branches, etc) and possibly below the water (read the water for signs of submerged “stuff”). Keep in mind that high water increases your speed and if you add to the speed equation by hammering hard you will typically be exceeding speeds that you are use to paddling. This can have adverse effects on your boat’s handling characteristics and bear in mind that reaction times to obstacles (setting yourself up for maneuvers) will need to be checked. You will be surprised at how fast obstacles appear when you are doing 12-15 mph vice 6-9 mph and you may be surprised at how sluggish your boat appears to react (pure perception as the sensation of forward movement seems to overpower the responsiveness of the boat). I recently paddled a very flooded Alafia River near my home. The river is out of its banks and flowing very fast with many downed trees and other debris in the water. The upper stretches of the river is what I call tree topping as the river is literally running through the trees. At any rate, I first paddled my Fenn Mako Surf Ski upstream against a brutal current in order to “recon” a safe route through the mess. After reaching the turnaround I zipped back to the take out at an average speed of 12.3 mph! I was feeling pretty good about the run until I smacked a bee nest in the tree limbs! Talk about a thought-provoking wake up call. Needless to say you can’t prepare for everything and this is a simple example of how you can get in serious trouble in fast water in a matter of seconds. Smack the bees stinging the heck out of you or navigate through the tree tops? I opted to keep my boat upright through the trees and once out of the debris filed I went over the side and got rid of my little friends! If you paddle high water… paddle with a partner and make sure that everyone is aware of what’s happening around them. Everything is taken to a new level in high water so make sure that the group understands how to deal with overturned boats and themselves in fast moving water.
Paddling on rain swollen rivers can be fun and it’s typically where we set our paddling records. However, flooded water can be fraught with danger. Make sure you are prepared for the experience if you are going to engage in these activities.
I was at the Martindale Dam this afternoon and saw something cool. I thought I would share it with you. There was a Kid (14-16) that was fishing at the Martindale Dam in a 16'ish Wanona (no rudder). He put his fishing pole up about 25 yards before the dam then paddled straight at the center. When he got there he did a slide left, stepped off onto the dam, threw his paddle (Single Blade/Bent shaft) out into the middle of the river below. Dropped the front of the canoe over the Dam and then Straddled it on what looked like a fun ride down the face. Had the paddle back and was upright in under 2 minutes. Paddled under the bridge and was fishing again before the bend. If I was to estimate, he took on under 4 gallons of water in the process. He was fitted with a foot powered bilge pump and was in a dry boat before he was fishing. He didn't even break a sweat. I do not condone that approach nor will I attempt it. I truly believe that the river conditions were in his favor this time. A lower or higher river could have killed him in a Heartbeat. However there seems to be a kid out there that is a contender. C.J. Hall <cjhall@itouch.net> - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 22:13:32 (CDT) John, what are you going to paddle next year? Marek <uliasz@frii.com> - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 19:17:06 (CDT) Although I have never paddled the boat in question and have proven that I have little knowledge of it, I would like to weigh in (no pun intended) on the subject of spray skirts in general. I think there is only one reason not to take a spray skirt and that is if you cannot afford it. Think about it for a minute. What does a spray skirt for a solo boat weigh? A pound? Two pounds? Certainly no more if Paula Goynes has made it and it will be strong and waterproof at that. Some folks may never have encountered a truly bad bay. I think the Lord has always saved the worst for me. But if you have ever seen one, there is no boat typically paddled in the Safari that will not take on sufficient water to make your crossing a living hell. Moreover, in truly bad storm conditions like the first night of 1989, it can make an enormous difference. I agree that I would not consider air bags weighing 5 - 10 pounds unless I had a low confidence level and/or a big river. But a spray cover is worth its weight in Russian white diamonds when you really need it. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 15:22:41 (CDT) The Advantage and Voyageur have built in floatation--will not sink. I once bought a Voyageur that had big white water floatation bags. Theory, I think is that with A LOT of floatation, if you turn over in rapids the boat will float/bounce over rocks and logs instead of wedging and wrapping. They add maybe 5-9 lbs and take up space you can walk in (getting thru junk). And, these are remarkably stable boats, far less likely to flip than the high-end boats. So, I didn't use them in my Advantage in Saf 03. But, maybe I was lucky. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 14:29:27 (CDT) Actually, Norm is now the happy owner of my Advantage. Truly great boat for Safari. He'll be making the banquet, easy, in this boat... We called him the Energizer Paddler in the 03Saf... in an 85 lb boat that kept filling with 40 lbs of water, he just kept coming up behind us and sometimes ahead. I think he slept 45 minutes on a log, second night. Amazing energy and drive and good spirits. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 14:20:54 (CDT) Doug, Norm can put a hole in anything. Remember, before he became a Ranger, he was a pole vaulter. Ever hear the old saying about the bull in the china shop? Norm knows I'm playing, he is a great guy & a heck of a singer. Ken Shaver - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 13:48:15 (CDT) WOW! Do you think Norm can get down the river without puttin' a hole in it!? Congrats Norm on the new boat! two words Norm,Patch Kit...(maybe two). Ahhh.it's all outta respect ya' know ! Happy Paddlin'ya'll Doug R. #62 3/2 solos Doug Rhude <riverrat62@msn.com> - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 12:13:42 (CDT) Alan, I finished solo in 02 in the voyager & a spray skirt is really optional. The two times I have finished the safari were both in a Wenonah, & got less than a quart of water in the boat both times put together. Norm just told me he got a voyager & he was excited. The boat has plenty of flotation , so the extra would just take up space. This advice & 86 cents will get you a cup of coffee at Circle K, so please take it for what it's worth. Norm was right about the TWS, It is a GREAT adventure for all, new & old, fast or slow, but there is nothing like the feeling of getting to the seawall at Seadrift. Ken Shaver - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 11:12:24 (CDT) I actually have a voyager on order. For those of you that have used flotation bags, would you recommend them over a spray skirt? I am curios how much weight they would add. Also, might make a comfortable bed to lay back on. Thanks. Alan <apickett@soe.sony.com> - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 09:04:41 (CDT) John and Alan: Now I understand. I finally went out to the Wenonah website and found that that boat is indeed 17 1/2 feet. So it is not disqualified by overall length, but apparently is by the width formula as you point out Alan. Actually, I think Jerry Cochran has a jig, but it almost certainly will not qualify given what you said John. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 08:32:03 (CDT) I am looking for a partner with a boat for novice or alum. class in the spring tx. area. I have been training with some friends for awhile. I can steer or just paddle. Would like to make the 04 safari. I am 5'9 165lbs good shape 36yrs. Thanks Mark Hebert <MHebert7@houston.rr.com> - Friday, August 29, 2003 at 06:09:03 (CDT) I think Wen. tried another 17.5' solo about 5 years ago, I think called the Encounter. Not meant to be fast, just higher volume for the great lakes and Boundary Waters. A bit of a dog, tumblehome in the wrong part of the gunnels. Voyageur is a good boat. In addition to James Green, I believe Mike Drost did Safari in one last year. However, with the efficiency/speed dead even and the Advantage an inch wider, it would prolly be a hair better for Safari. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 17:00:08 (CDT) John: Interesting. I didn't realize Wenonah made a recreational solo boat that long. Alan: From what John is saying, the width would make no difference because it does not pass the overall length rule. Also, Alan, I got your email and did enjoy meeting your former partner at Town Lake the other day. I saw the boat you paddled and assure you (as I did him) that you are more men than I am. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 13:08:12 (CDT) Thanks for the advice and education on Gatorade, Bob. I certainly wasn't intending to recommend it, but illustrate how even a blockhead can make it to Seadrift. I've always wondered why the hallucinations were especially bizarre and colorful that year... Norm <nthomas90252@aol.com> - Thursday, August 28, 2003 at 09:39:26 (CDT) Okay. Did some figureing. According to the formula. the Voyager would have to have a minimum waterline of 2.51 ft. As it turns out, the Voyager has a waterline of 2.29 ft, which makes it ineligible for C-1 Class. Solo unlimited would be the class for voyager. Alan <apickett@soe.sony.com> - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 17:19:30 (CDT) The Wenonah Voyageur does NOT qualify as C-1. It's 6" longer and and inch narrower than the Advantage. Wen. thought it would be a faster recreational boat. However, turns out in their official trials and in Ken Kettering's trials in Mnpls to be dead equal to Advantage in efficiency. This is the boat that James Green paddled in Saf03 but could not qualify as "c-1" John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 17:09:41 (CDT) Alan: I'm not 100 percent certain (but that never stopped me from having an opinion--opinions are like colons: everybody has one) but if this is a solo boat, 18 1/2 feet or under, it most probably is wide enough that it would qualify under USCA rules. That class is governed by a formula which you could find by looking on the USCA website. The rules are, again, that they not be over 18 1/2 feet long but also that their width at an assumed waterline of 4 inches, is not less than a certain fraction of the width. (I don't remember the exact ratio.) Thus a boat can be skinnier, but it has to be shorter.) But basically, the whole idea of the formula is to limit the class so that boats are not too long and not too skinny, either of which would have a tendency to make them faster. Thus common sense dictates that a boat designed for solo cruising with some gear, would be wider (if only for greater carrying capacity and stability) and would thus qualify. As I recall, an Alumacraft, with no rudder and a solo paddler with a single blade, would qualify for USCA-C1. She or he simply would not be competetive in the class. So even if the boat would qualify, and even if we mere mortals could compete with the likes of Mark Simmons, John Bugge (fourth place overall in C1) Bob Spain, Tom Wilkinson (before he caught the sick-of-getting-beat-by-Bob-Spain syndrome,) or Jerry Nunnery (Ye old Palmetto Hotline rumor has it there is a comeback in the works), we still would need a true USCA-C1 to have a hope. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 16:25:09 (CDT) Anyone know if a Wenonah Voyager qualifies as a C-1 for racing? Alan <apickett@soe.sony.com> - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 15:14:41 (CDT) Thanks, Norm. that was great post. Thunder - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 13:39:31 (CDT) Norm and Others: PLEASE! Don't eat Gatoraide!!!!!!! Eating the stuff straight can kill you. I don't have the reference now, but info came out several years ago. For a while Gatoraide was selling their powder in straws - each straw just enough to put in one quart of water. Very convienent for backpacking, etc., but people (some kids) started eating it straight. There were a few deaths. They stopped with the straws. I caught one of my Boy Scouts at Philmont doing it, and I made him drink about a quart of water ASAP. Think of it as consuming a dose of flavored salt. It sucks the water out of your body into your stomach. The salt once absorbed may be way too concentrated a dose - and will screw up the electrolytes in your blood - thus impacting your heart contractions, brain function, etc. and possibly making you a dead person. At the very least, you'll be performing sub-par. Some athletic literature says straight water is best, others say to dilute Gatoraide 1/2 strength, and yet others say diluting to recommended strength is best. At the amount we comsumed on the Safari (1 qt per hour while paddeling and some while resting, or about 20 - 25 gallons over 3-4 days), we diluted it half strength and never got ill. Just DON'T EAT IT! Bob Brown, 'Agin Bulls. Bob Brown <rdbrown@tamu.edu> - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 12:45:00 (CDT) BELATEDLY, ABOUT RUDDERS: Carbon rudders can break where aluminum rudders will bend. This happened to me this year and I went fm Ottine to Seadrift without a rudder -- With an alum rudder, I would have heaved it back to approx straight and been on my way in 2 minutes. NOTE TOO, THO: Aluminum rudders (housing, whatever) CAN break beyond repair. Hence, I advocate some training without the rudder. You ABSOLUTELY CAN paddle an Advantage or XStream start to finish without a rudder...IF YOU KNOW YOUR STROKES AND DRAWS, SWEEPS, REVERSE DRAWS. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 11:52:14 (CDT) Goynes's low stroke is where you consciously keep the doubleblade axis about breastbone height instead of maybe a foot higher. The latter is faster, but requires MUCH more shoulder action and energy for The Big Race. With a single, you try to cut yr paddle so that, with the full blade in the water yr control hand is maybe on a level with your eyes and your elbow is DOWN, not up. Note: this is prolly yr best measurement of paddle length for Safari. Also note: you will see some (veterans!) with paddles so long their control hand is far above their heads...wasting energy and wear, the heart having to pump blood up 2 feet into that hand/arm. THERE ARE SOME EXCELLENT VIDEOS ABOUT STROKES, AND VIDEOS OF PREVIOUS SAFARIS...THAT MANY OF US NOVICES HAVE STUDIED AT GREAT LENGTH FOR JUST SUCH FINE POINTS. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 11:47:11 (CDT) I've been gone for a few weeks and have just read the last bunch of postings and thought I probably had something to offer -- So --For those who are thinking about doing this Safari, here's the real deal from my viewpoint . Who am I? I'm 51 and not the lean, mean fighting machine I was when Uncle Sam decided to draft me way back when. I'm probably as stupid as I ever was. From a technical paddling standpoint, or scientific training standpoint, I'm not much of anything. I do have 6 out of 7 finishes, 5 of them solo. Several of the finishes were not pretty, but they were great fun. In some years I have tipped many, many times. With the exception of my first Safari in 1978, every race has been 100% double blade.The last 6 have been from '98 through '03. The year I tipped the most, I got 2nd solo. I have paddled plastic sit on top kayaks most of the time (I think I've paid my dues on that and don't plan to do that anymore); I have paddled with stock plastic paddles and carbon fibre; I have paddled with no rudder, broken rudders, cracked boats, leaky boats, and very leaky boats; all of them were very heavy boats. I have never been able to spend much, if any time on the river before the race, so I don't have more than maybe a couple of hundred river miles more than whatever the total is for the 6 1/2 Safaris completed. I have done the Safari with nothing but power bars , water, and some powdered gatorade that I ate every now and then. The only time I didn't finish, I was running too fast all night behind a tandem, while in my sit on top, had nothing but power bars (again!), and threw up so hard, that, even though I kept going the rest of the night, I had ruptured something in my esophagus, couldn't swallow anything but water, and didn't have any hard candy to get some calories ( was just too far gone by Hocheim, and had a couple of scary underwater tree wrecks while I was out of it.) It was almost two weeks before I could eat solid food, and not finishing bothered me for the whole year. So I learned about peppermints. And over the years I learned a bunch of other stuff, too, mostly from the school of hard knocks. The point is, if you want to do this thing, you can. If you want to be up with the big dogs, there's a lot more time and work, and attention to detail involved. If you can do that -- outstanding -- if you can't, don't walk away -- but learn from some great advice here, in the archives, and from some very selfless experts who share knowledge that you could only learn by trial and error over several years of Safaris. But for Pete's sake don't cut yourself out of a marvelous adventure for fear of where you might end up in the final standings. I guarantee you, even the man/woman who doesn't make it to the first checkpoint has an interesting story to tell. And there's a whole community of interesting, quirky, diverse, strong willed people that are a hoot to get to know, however long or briefly. Rangers Lead the Way. Norm Thomas <nthomas90252@aol.com> - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 11:18:59 (CDT) I noticed on Marek's Solo list, that 3rd palce was a Wenonah voyager, James Green. Does anyone know if James had a rudder or flotation bags on his canoe? Thanks. Alan <apickett@soe.sony.com> - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 10:01:05 (CDT) RE: solo boats in TWS. In my 2002 and 2003 safari reports I have compiled lists of all solo paddlers. I've just started to add a boat type/description to my 2003 table with links to pictures in my photo report wherever possible. I will try to do this for 2002 as well. I think it may be useful information for newcomers to the Safari. I would appreciate your help in providing information about your boats or any other solo boats in in the last two safaris you know about. You can be as specific as you like. Length, beam? I can always add more information to my tables. And, I need this information for both finishers and nonfinishers. Any comments or corrections? Gerald- I forgot - YOU NEED A REAL RUDDER! if you want to play in this game- or you're Mark Simmons (but nobody is Mark- King of C-1!- not even Landick! or Devo!) You ain't seen nothin till you make the run from Staples to Gonzo- Cottonseed was the warm-up..... CaptJack <captjack@ev1.netX> - Wednesday, August 27, 2003 at 00:00:52 (CDT) Gerald- since I sucked you into this discussion/insanity pool.... :) Most all of us use both a high quality carbon kayak paddle and a Zaveral bent-shaft racing canoe paddle. They use different muscle groups so it really helps in the long range to be able to switch back and forth. I use use my carbon Werner Camano for most of the SanMarcos and when I get below the last big log jam below Slayden I switch to the Zav for awhile. The double is better for fast stabs and manuverablility in the narrower part of the SanMarcos and once you get in the big deep ditch(Guad) it's a good place to cruise with the single. Yes- it's better to be trimmed about 1" low in the bow when running the shallower parts of the SM. Most all of the C2, Alums & better Standards have sliders on their seats. When they are coming up on a shoal they will slide forward to trim the bow down so the bow wave will give them lift over the shoal. If your're trimed stern low you will experience the vacuum cleaner effect of the shoal- can you say sucking slow speed.... yes- Tom & Paula Goynes make the best (probably only) custom spray skirts for the Safari. Their email addy is: goynes@centurytel.net - or their phone# is: 512-392-6171 PS- congrats on your 1st run to Staples- it's always the most adventurous one- it get's better every time you make the run.... CaptJack <captjack@ev1.netX> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 22:25:55 (CDT) Might as well ask another silly question for the amusement of the bulletin board. I have removed the skeg from my kayak...hopefully for better handling in the swift water. This boat has an elliptical hull, 28" wide, not radically sharp or V'ed at either end. Kind of canoeish. Will I get better handling in the swift water trimmed bow heavy, or stern heavy? I suspect bow heavy would be faster...but not if I go like a javelin so far up in a sweeper that it will take Lewis and Clark in full exploration mode to find me. I've already severely damaged one huge old Cypress tree just below Cottonseed Rapid. I don't want to make them an endangered species. Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@texaspaddler.com> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 20:57:06 (CDT) I guess I'm just gonna to have to ask...what is the Tom Goynes low stroke? Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@texaspaddler.com> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 18:27:02 (CDT) Does anyone know where I can get a relatively inexpensive spray skirt for a large cockpit kayak (about 24 by 41)? I was thinking Tom Goynes makes them, but I'm not sure I have the right email address to get in contact with him. Anyone else? Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@texaspaddler.com> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 18:24:15 (CDT) Uh... someone knows me well. We are laying up a boat (canoe, not kayak) that we hope will have some of the Advantage's comfort with ballpark XStream efficiency. Greater volume, for bigger paddlers and/or slow old dawgs like me that take a 4 day load. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 17:05:54 (CDT) Uh, Devo uses the low stroke. Bartell. I believe Steppe high-strokes in the short races... Did anyone notice down around Victoria? John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 17:02:13 (CDT) John: I agree with you on the low hold, having tried to sustain a high one for about 21 hours and nearly having to be hospitalized. Only problem is that the only person I have myself seen who can use the "Tom Goynes" stroke and actually go fast happens to be named Tom Goynes. Bob: You forgot the most important class distinction of all--the one between those Safari-ites who have class and those of us who don't. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 14:52:40 (CDT) George, I've gotten a lot of advice about paddles over the past 5 years of year-round training. Most of the best paddlers leave me with the impression they paddle solo unlimited and tandem unlimited boats and the long boats about maybe 60% single blade maybe 40% double. Single maybe requiring a little less energy, a little less wear on the shoulders. With either/both, I recommend the "Tom Goynes" low stroke. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 13:21:41 (CDT) If I recall them correctly, the kayaks Marek is referring to are beautiful boats, about the length, lines, and speed of the XStreams and Daniel's SU's, i.e., fast and efficient and reasonable weight. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 13:11:40 (CDT) Wow - I've not checked in to this page in weeks, and there seems to be a lot of "class consciousness." Maybe there should be a separate page for semi-pros and another for the rest of us, or maybe one race for those under 40 and another for those over 40. My goal is to eventually do the Safari in a single. I naively tried 3 years ago in an Old Town Loon 111, with only some lake paddeling experience. I think I even took a tent and stove with me. I lasted only 12 hours, having flipped 5 times, once under a tree. Last year John Edwards and I enterd in an aluminum canoe. We did paddeling practice on the Brazos, and did about the first 20 - 30 miles of the Safari course on a couple of weekends. We finished in 96 hours. This year we did all of our practicing on the Course, and did the two pre-safari races. We finished in 76 hours. My advice is to at least do the top 85 miles of the Safari course to get in most of the rough water and the portages. Do two pre-races, especially the one to Sea Drift to realize just how big that bay can be. The pre-races are good to learn to keep up with the pack, but at the same time to pace yourself. I'm 58 and John is 55. We even finished 3rd in one of the pre-races. We'll do at least one more year in the tandem aluminum, and maybe try to place in the top 3 aluminums (which is hard to do if you believe in sleep), and then I'd like to try a solo kayak when I'm 60. We could do it a lot faster with no sleep and enough Vivarin and Lamotil, but we're not into that. By the way, half of the entrants are over 40. You don't have to be an athlete or have super-expensive gear to finish in under 100 hours. Practice the top 85 miles, enter the 2 pre-races, and go see Seabiscuit. Bob Brown, Agin' Bulls. Bob Brown <rdbrown@tamu.edu> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 11:33:50 (CDT) Looking for another boat to assist with training/shuttling vehicles on the Upper San Marcos on Fridays. Call if interested, 512-452-9282 gaston jones <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, August 26, 2003 at 08:43:33 (CDT) Colin: When I raced, because I had no technique whatsoever, I used the widest blade (on a Black Bart or Black Buck) I could find. I don't think they even had Zavarels back then. When I started looking at paddles recently, I called the company to discuss the various blade configurations, widths, weights, etc. I have no idea to whom I was talking, but the guy on the line told me that even Serge Corbin uses a 7.75. If true, that would certainly be a wakeup call. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Monday, August 25, 2003 at 08:14:18 (CDT) On the subject of paddle length, with the Zavs, try and buy them uncut without the handle stuck on. The new and 2nds paddles they sell always come with good instructions on how to cut and stick them and how to unstick the handles when you want to shorten them yourself. I have recently been cutting some of my longer blades down by .25" at a time where needed and had success with improved comfort and ability to increase rate. The other often missed factor is single blade paddle size and area. Recently we attended the USCA nationals in Pensylvania and discovered that there were paddlers ( not neccessarily women ) using blades narrower than our standard 8.25". There were a few men racing with 7.75" powersurges and they weren't slow! Blade length was generally a tiny bit shorter too. When I try to work out paddle length and blade area I try and consider the rate at which I need to paddle at, at which position I feel strongest and have a good paddling movement. The Blade area maybe should relate also to the paddlers maximum rate and physical size and shape as well as to the suckiness of the hull you are propelling along. I don't think that there is any paddle length or shape that I feel is ideal for all conditions though, but I think as a racing paddler the key is to be able to adapt and use paddles within your range ( I seem be OK with 49' up to 51"ish. 6ft with 31" reach)In USA C2 cruiser I have found that pulling quite hard at a high rate out performs pulling really hard at a slightly slower rate,this factor being really evident in shallow water.
There are similar considerations to be made when using double blades, blade area and length act as your base gear ratio. You can alter this only by a small ammount physically with hand placement and by how you hold onto the water.You need to retain as much of your "swing" and keep "leaning" on the paddles. A tired paddler tends to slip the paddles a bit and reduce the attack of the initial catch. In the safari this isn't aways a bad thing and probably indicates that the paddler is able to adapt. Its still best to take the time and work at finding the right paddle for your shape and size.
Uncle Russ, I get your point about being a contender. Just the fact that I will make the attempt and possibly finish will be enough for me. I also thank those who commented on the single paddle and who make any other comment. I tried the single paddle out today....after I was seriously humbled and a bit of reality crashed down on me. My practice until today has been 10 or 20 miles on flat water...lakes (It's been many years since I ran swift water). Today I ran the San Marcos down to Staples dam. Very enlightening. I thought I had it made after running the chute at Rio Vista Dam....sitting low at the time. My high seat, which worked so well, on flat water...absolutely sucked on the San Marcos. I turned over twice while trying it out, once before Cottonseed and again at the Martindale low water crossing. No problems when I didn't use it...with the seating anyway. I may have also damaged one huge old cypress tree when I hit it head on while dodging a drop line. I also broke my double paddle and had to finish the last 4 miles with a little $10 canoe paddle. I'm certain the two people I were with were having a ball betting on whether the old man would make it down each little batch of swift water. I had also added a small temporary skeg to my kayak on the flat water to aid in tracking just a bit. It worked ok...on the flat water. The skeg sucked on the swift water. The skeg is coming off and joining the high seat in the trash bin. I have some redesigning to do. I do believe now that the single paddle will work as a back up. Anyway...I learned a lot today...and have much more to learn. I'm gonna have to study some of the better Safari boats and learn more about what works....and doesn't work. Man...this is a blast. Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@texaspaddler.com> - Sunday, August 24, 2003 at 23:47:20 (CDT) re: kayaks in TWS. When photographing TWS 2001 I was paying special attention to kayaks since I was kayaker then (pictures include Thomas Mendenhall and CaptJack). To the kayak finishers of TWS 2003 you can add James Sutherland and Doug Rhude, both in homebuilt plywood kayaks. Marek <uliasz.at.frii.com> - Sunday, August 24, 2003 at 09:44:40 (CDT) Gerald: I would attempt to contact Trent Garton and/or Randy Johnson who both had solid finishes in traditional sea kayaks (also Norm Thomas who used a traditional sit-on-top kayak). They can most assuredly give the best advice on the good points, bad points, paddle options, etc. Perhaps they are lurking here and can contact you directly. [There most certainly were other finishes in sea kayaks this year, I apologize for not knowing the names]. Dave Bartell <dbart@lcc.net> - Sunday, August 24, 2003 at 09:33:18 (CDT) Gerald: There is absolutely nothing wrong with not being a contender. The question is: a contender for what? At a minimum, you will be a contender to finish. The race is many things to different people and something different for each. As to single-blading your boat, I think most will agree with me that if you can balance it well and get a good purchase with the paddle, there shouldn't be any reason it won't work. You need to pay attention to length. Some people go by the formula that the length should be equal to the distance from your butt on a firm chair to the bridge of your nose plus 18 or 19 inches. I'm not sure that works universally, due to the difference in seat heights. For example, I use a 52-inch for high seats in aluminum and USCA-C1. In USCA-C2, I think I used a 50 or 51 and sometimes went as low as a 48 in the Spencer C-3s. But I would bow to the far greater experience of many folks on this board. If you can, go by and see Duane with your boat, and if Tom Goynes is home nearby, ask him. I'll bet if you applied the above formula and posted the result along with the height of your seat from the bottom of the boat (including Safari padding,) someone would weigh in with more specific advice. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Saturday, August 23, 2003 at 23:42:56 (CDT) The boat I currently have is a 28" wide kayak designed that way so I can sit up high when I want...which is most of the time (most older people will understand). In some respects it's a low sheer, decked canoe. I've heard some people talk about using a double paddle with a single paddle as backup and for when they want to use different muscle groups. Can those who have done it, and any others, tell me if this is a viable option to consider, the negatives and positives. I will not ever be a contender. My goal is to finish. 16 1/2 miles next month will be no problem...but 260 next year...certainly will be. I have carefully worded and phrased this question/comment so that, hopefully, Uncle Russ won't feel the need for more self abuse. (Just kidding, Uncle Russ. I enjoy every comment you and others make. I have great respect for all who have attempted the Safari.) Gerald W. Kennedy <srchr@texaspaddler.com> - Saturday, August 23, 2003 at 19:41:27 (CDT) Michael: I got to thinking about what you said: "A really really skinny C1 is the same width as a really really fat C1 at 18 1/2 ft." and it took me several hours to realize I had no idea on God's green pastures of creation what you meant. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Saturday, August 23, 2003 at 19:37:36 (CDT) Michael: Careful, there Son. You are starting to take Uncle Russ seriously. What I really mean to say is that, given Mark's incredible successes, you obviously have the genes to go out and whip his butt like any proper brother would do. I only have a half-brother who is ten years younger than I am, and I would gladly whip his butt (literally,) if I could find him. Never liked the little SOB. Of course I don't even like my closest friends. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Saturday, August 23, 2003 at 13:17:47 (CDT) RUSS: A really really skinny C1 is the same width as a really really fat C1 at 18 1/2 ft. I missed how suggesting that someone who has bagged 8 wins in 8 trips (consecutive) out of San Marcos ( 9 if you count their twofer in Masters) might be the gold standard to measure against constitutes a rivalry. Let's see - who else is on that list ah - nobody! Hell, Mark and Pat were almost as close to the Mynar boat as the " other" tandem boat was to them. Anyone DREAMING about doing what Mark has done in C1 should wake up and apologize. Yeah, I may be prejudicial in believing He is the best contemporary Safarier, but like a good brother he keeps proving me right. Michael Simmons <mps@ktc.com> - Saturday, August 23, 2003 at 00:09:36 (CDT) Dave: Unfortunately, I have to sit really, really high (as in Cruiser, ICF, Aluminum, or one of the big boats.) I don't hurt--I fall back. On one of the last races I did many years ago, I was in one of the really really skinny C1's. I have no idea what it was called. It was one of John's decked and bulkheaded boats that was about as tippy as a K1. I had no problem with stability until I began to have back spasms. Coming into Smithville it took me 30 minutes to get from the first bridge to the second (about 1 1/2 miles.) My lower back would spasm and I would fall back, turning the $#*? over. Get back in/spasm/turn over/fall out. Lovely day. Spelce later recommended I visit Dr. Kevorkian. By the way, what have you and Stockwell done to deserve all this abuse on the BB? (I think I saw someone beating up on you earlier in the year.) In a perfect world, noone would say anything bad about anybody on a Safari bulletin board except maybe about Bugge. Anyway, I hope they keep aiming it at you and don't decide to abuse me. I'm perfectly capable of abusing myself. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 16:25:47 (CDT) My Norton Anti-Virus software has worked excellently in keeping the Sobig virus from infecting my computer. If we just had a filter or process in place to get rid of anonymous hate messages - I suggest these folks take up suicide bombing at the log jams below Palmetto. Practice on week days, please.
Regarding solos. I would say that the Extreme and Rainmaker boat are very similar in the results they provide. They can both be stuffed with gear, multiple paddles, a safari load of food and still support a 200 lb. paddler. They are made to "butt-scoot" over shallow logs with full weight and they paddle efficiently with both double and single blade. They give up some maneuverability (less rocker) to gain efficiency but that is overcome with time on the river. You might be surprised at how low some folks sit in these boats. That, I believe, is one of the keys to success. Do not take it for granted that the height initially provided is a "required" height. The key is to start low and work up. Some can sit higher than others - not necessarily paddle harder, but certainly sit higher. Find a spot that works, put in LOTS of training time and your body will adapt to the sitting position. I believe another key to success is to acknowledge those aches and pains that won't go away in time (such as sciatic pinches). You have to start adjusting things early and test for results. It takes months in some cases to solve some issues - lots of garage time scheming and modifying. If you are considering one of these boats for Safari, and have no prior experience with a similar boat, I would recommend ordering new or finding a used boat NOW and start the training and adjusting process before year's end. Dave (Lives 1, Completions 0). I of course meant to say "Sawyer Sabres" Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 14:10:07 (CDT) Warden: I understand what you are saying. No doubt about DeVogler and son. They could beat me and my son to shreds any day even if they were paddling a bathtub. And my son is 36 years old. I guess my thinking (without really knowing jack about the boat they were in, but having seen it) was that they might well have done better in an ICF-C2. If I'm dead wrong on that, have mercy on me and see my disclaimer in the sentence above! I know kayaks can be faster than canoes. I guess my impression of the ones you are talking about (again, not being particularly troubled with actual knowledge,) is that they are on the order of Olympic boats. My impression of the recent history of the Safari (in the area of top boat design) has been a transition from very tippy boats to somewhat more comfortable craft that cruise well, but are maybe a tad slower. When Tom and Red, followed by John and Mike won it all in ICF tandem boats in the early to mid '80's, the Mynars countered, not with Sabre Sawyers or Olympic K4's, but with the Spencer C3. John tried it the very next year in a low-threat environment (with Donna and me) before quite properly kicking us out the following year and putting Shively and Cochran in to eventually win. Then came the C4, the 5, 6, 8, 9, etc. I was in some of them before I died, and they were all very sittable boats. Now I could be wrong. You may be talking about kayaks that are not tippy and which you don't have to sit right on the bottom of (My God, I ended a sentence with a preposition.)
Mark: You need to address this sibling rivalry issue. Russ: One might further paraphrase " I knew West Hansen, and you sir are no West Hansen - let alone a Mark Simmons. Michael Simmons <mps@ktc.com> - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 13:28:31 (CDT) Well, old jake-leg has found a partner...Paint "antagonist" on your boat and see if J S don't hand you your ass on Saturday. Then change you boat name to Sobig.GG (annelid). M P Simmons <mps@ktc.com> - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 13:19:41 (CDT) Re: Stockwell bashers. The Colonel is one of the few folks who will freely offer his thoughts on what he has tried, what works and what doesn't. It has been my observation that he has spent the last five years trying just about everything to increase his odds of making it so the seawall. Inevitably as a result of this experience he has built a respectable knowledge base particularly in comparison to the novices he is always trying to assist. This is a lot more than I have witnessed from some of our tight lipped and mildly arrogant veterans. What folks should recognize is that people like Stockwell encourage and bring new people into the sport, without new blood there would be no competition or growth with the event. It would be sad to see Safari evolve into an event where the same dozen old men get together to race canoes, (not much unlike a USCA event). Folks who take anonymous cheap shots typically are just insecure about themselves. Warden <Warden@TDCJ.com> - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 12:57:28 (CDT) Uncle Russ, there are a plethora of suitable safari kayaks just not many available locally. In Texas, or the US for that matter we are collectively paddle sport novices. Europeans, Aussies and South Africans are light years ahead of us when it comes to marathon (kayak) racing. The 404km Murray Marathon has dozens upon dozens of touring, ocean, and unlimited style kayaks racing year in and year out. And these are not tupperware jobs, they are sleek laid up hulls and depending on the engine I am certain they would equal or excel our landiks, spencers and rainmakers. They are not totally unavailable here in the states, and we actually have a number of US built ocean/touring kayaks and surf skis that are fairly efficient and fast. Just ask Devo, top 15 in a double Kayak with his son this year in safari. Warden <Warden@TDCJ.com> - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 12:33:44 (CDT) Mercy. I have not ever had the opportunity to meet John Stockwell, (although I am about his age as reported on this board, so I may not remember the meeting,) but it amazes me how one individual can engender so much of a following, especially negative. Some folks seem to think he and a couple of other soloists are the antiChrist. Sheeesh. I envy you John, because, personally, I have never cared what people think about me as long I am getting attention of some kind. Thunder: I NEVER NEVER meant to discourage you from a solo effort. I have not finished many Safari's and only feel I did well in one race, but for a few years it was the entire focus of my life. But I have never went solo, and I regret that. And I would join with dmckay in the view that just finishing is an incredible accomplishment. For Heaven's sake, don't be discouraged from your effort by a discussion of boat types. My focus was not so much to dump on solo, but to emphasize the number of tried-and-true designs that are out there. By all means go, just don't re-invent the wheel. That is the sole meaning of what I was clumsily trying to say. Uncle Russ <rdrekl@texas.net> - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 10:07:07 (CDT) what is your name antagonist....? you are a COWARD.....!! so what if Stockwell has one finish 87hrs.....John Stockwell is a great friend of the safari, he has logged more miles on the river in these last 5years in training and safari attempts along with his participation in all the other races than 90% of the other safariest around,.....and he did all of this in his SIXTIES....I hope that I am ALIVE when I reach SIXTY!....he has logged countless miles in extremes, advantage, alumacraft and tandem u`s with never a hint of rudeness or unkind critisism of anyone else.....John Stockwell is the essence of what safari is all about.....overcoming heartbrakeing failure and achieving his personal goal of a solo finish at his age is a tremendous accomplishment that we should all be proud of......thanks to John and all others who share thier views and advise (crazy or not) to this BB.......!! doug <dmackay@grindingsource.com> - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 08:47:08 (CDT) for sale, fully outfitted Safari tanden unlimited 21' kevlar boat 626-9814,sans hookers De <boat617@yahoo.com> - Friday, August 22, 2003 at 03:37:02 (CDT) Thunder as you already know Safari is all about trying. And doing what most red-blooded Americans would call crazy. Train. Have a good plan and once the gun goes off never look back or quit. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Thursday, August 21, 2003 at 17:11:51 (CDT) Russ, thanks very much for your answers. I got all the info I need. And the conclusion is that running solo is probably a bad idea for me. I truly thank you for saving me the headache of trying. Thunder - Thursday, August 21, 2003 at 16:35:28 (CDT) Warden: You are of course correct. My obvious point is only that most kayaks, whether they be whitewater, sea kayak, or whatever, don't happen to have the optimum hull design that you mention. Also they don't usually happen to be made of a carbon/kevlar/vinylester layup, so they tend to be heavier and more flexible. Granted some sea kayaks are made of Kevlar, and if you get them to the bay, you can laugh your ass off at everyone else. But again, you are correct that it's all about words. A kayak by any other name would cruise as sweet. I have a carbon/Kevlar decked and bulkheaded USCA-C1 in my backyard that has little more cockpit space than a sit-a-top fishing kayak. There may indeed be some kayaks out there that are just as good in the Safari as the great old original Landick boat or it's very different successor, the USCA-C1s, (J-200's etc.) and the Extreme and all the other skinny boats that have been made. But I doubt it. If you design one, it will probably be just Safari C1 with a deck.
Thunder: As I pointed out in a previous post, folks have finished in whitewater play boats. But, to paraphrase Lloyd Bentsen: "I knew West Hansen, and you sir, are no West Hansen." (On the other hand, maybe you are, and he is a szhizophernic.) Thanks everyone for the advice. I have had my eyes opened a bit. I was thinking that I could grab a 15 foot Dagger or Wilderness Systems boat off the rack and be able to do this. Thanks for setting me straight. What is the most common solo craft in the TWS? Last year I ran the good old 17' Metal with my partner. Thunder - Thursday, August 21, 2003 at 14:57:03 (CDT) Thunder, this past year may pal and I both solo were leapfrogging with a couple of tuff dudes in 15 foot(?) sea kayaks all the way to Seadrift. Notable difference was that we slept a lot more than they did, they worked harder than we did. Their boats were a lot heavier. Roy Lewis and CaptJack both had good finishes in boats ballpark like you are considering. Tuff guys. The Wenonah Advantage is really good Safari solo. There are some of the Tuff Weave around you could buy/rent/borrow. 55 lbs, which is prolly 20 less than the kayaks, and much friendlier. I've got sev. years of training and trying in 20-foot SU's, and love 'em, but there is a learning/conditioning curve. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, August 21, 2003 at 14:15:00 (CDT) Water ain't smart enough to tell if you are paddling a canoe or kayak, all it knows is the shape of the hull. There are at least three general types of Kayaks I would consider to be good safari boats, and at least that many general types of canoes I wouldn't recommend paddling over 10 miles. When it comes down to brass tacks, what is the difference between a kayak and canoe? I have seen decked canoes with rudders, kayaks paddled with single bladed paddles and a dizzying array of lengths widths and styles in both type of paddle craft. The only thing I haven't seen is a kayak where one paddles in a kneeling position, but I bet the Colonel is working on a prototype. For safari, regardless what you call it, you optimally want an efficient hull design. In a nutshell this will boil down to a long waterline and minimized wetted hull surface area. Skill and experience factor into the equation as the more efficient the hull, the more difficult it is to paddle proficiently, generally speaking. Warden <Warden@TDCJ.com> - Thursday, August 21, 2003 at 14:13:08 (CDT) You may also want to ask yourself the more burning question: "Why would I want to paddle a kayak in the Safari?" This is a question with only a little less relevance to the history of torture than the |
