Note: This information is in addition to and not a substitute for knowing ALL the rules and regulations in the Official Race Packet. Please read and know all Official Rules. They are not just a good idea. They are the LAW.

When I was a Captain in 1992, my crew wasn't trying to win. We only wanted to finish. To win you need a slightly more intense technique but perhaps some of my thoughts will be helpful.

Most people familiar with the Texas Water Safari agree that the job of Captain is just as hard and important as any crew member in any boat. The Captain is an essential part of the team effort who can aid his team greatly or he can end their participation entirely. When my brother Bob asked me to Captain of his team in 1992, I didn't know what to expect. By necessity, I caught on pretty quickly, and hopefully, I can pass on to you a few tips to make your quest easier.

1. To this day I always pay my apartment rent a few days early. I lived under bridges during the race. That was more than enough mock homelessness for this life time, thank you. Moreover, I got just as sun burned and had MORE mosquito bites than the racers did. Bring Sunblock, Mosquito Repellent, Citronella Candles and Yard Guard!!!

2. General camping skills are a plus, but be especially prepared for the HEAT. Plan on light, cool and QUICK meals. Have GALLONS of ice water around and DRINK THEM. I like to eat lots of fruit and sandwiches during the day and boil-a-bags for dinner. A small stove, a pot and a spoon is all you need. Wear light cool clothing and a hat. A battery operated fan would be a luxury. Tents are OK, but they take time to set up and take down. I slept in my van and occasionally on a cot in the open by the river. Quick stops in convience stores for ice cream are a nice break (but don't tell your crew). If you have enough time, you can catch a quick shower at the Bastrop State Park. That way you will smell better than your crew at the finish line, but I guarantee they won't notice.

3. You must keep up with your boat crew's progress and know where they are AT ALL TIMES! Have your chart showing the RIVER MILES between check points. Figure out how fast your boat is going and GET TO THE CHECK POINT BEFORE THEM! Be careful. Some sections of the river are much faster than others. KNOW THE ROUTE!!! Know their portages and remind your crew of the best approach! They will be pretty out of it towards the end of the race. You may have to tell them which direction is down river.

4. I had ice water for my crew at every stop. Talk to your crew every chance you get. See how they are doing and make sure they are eating, drinking water, and putting on their sun screen. Take care of all the paper work. Your crew won't do it and won't care about it. Be prepared to drive to the next check point as soon as your boat leaves the last one.

5. Make use of the most important -- and what I found to be the most enjoyable -- resource for race information. Talk to the other Captains and ground crews. I met some delightful people on my trip and got some very important information from them. After the first day, the boaters usually get into a set speed and routine. Often you travel from check point to check point with the same folks. They are fun to talk to. I got to know them and learned about their boat crews. We often helped each other, sharing information as well as food and drink. Several times I learned of troubles on the river ahead that I could warn my crew about. At one check point I walked just a short ways back to my van to get my fishing gear. My crew made a quick pass by the stop and I would have not known they went by unless another crew told me. Just another example of how friends are always a plus. If you get behind your boat, you are useless. Stay ahead!

6. If you have drinkers in your boat ( I've known a few people to convert during the race) HAVE COLD BEER READY AT THE FINISH LINE! (Champagne will do in a pinch.) Only after the obligatory finishing celebration can you show them to the showers. Know where the showers are. Have your crew's clean clothes, towels and soap ready for them. You WILL want them to clean up before getting into YOUR car. If you want to be really efficient, have a small fire ready to burn their old clothes. Don't count on them driving back home. Getting them home safely is your last responsibility as Captain!!!