The Texas Marathon Canoe Racing Billboard was created to allow paddlers from across the country to post notes to be viewed by other boaters. A note can be anything from Safari tips and news to items forsale. Please feel free to post boating related internet sites, suggestions or comments on these web pages.
the road to Prairie Lea #2 is now blocked with a locked gate well up the hill from the river. The landowner in the vicinity of the gate doesn't like paddlers, especially nekkid ones, so I recommend avoiding PL #2 during the Safari.
LD GOT SAFARI FEET? Mumbles Brownstone <MB@iwiseguy.com> - Monday, June 03, 2002 at 10:38:52 (CDT) Tom. I aint sure if you were saying you dreamed about those 15 ft Gar or if this tackle shop is real, either way I sure know if you run into one of those you had better be showing a little more than a can O Gar Spray. perhaps som buck shot Jon Schoepflin <jon.schoepflin@nextel.com> - Monday, June 03, 2002 at 10:34:35 (CDT) AccuWeather seems out of touch. Missed the 1-2 inch rains last week. Now is not mentioning the bit of weather and cool that are blowing in Tuesday with possible rain. Had St. Petersburg as fair and mild the day last December when James was plowing thru heavy fog and substantial waves. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Monday, June 03, 2002 at 08:43:41 (CDT) Yes, I had one of those safari dreams the other nite. I was in a fishing tackle shop down near the coast and they had mounted on the wall some of the gar that they caught on the river down there. They were about 12 to 15 feet long and about 4 ft girth. Probably weighed about 400 to 500 pounds. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Monday, June 03, 2002 at 01:33:32 (CDT) Any word on the Martindale lwb for long solo boats? Go thru right or left? john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Sunday, June 02, 2002 at 22:04:31 (CDT) I'm having those pre-Safari dreams again even though I am not racing this year! Anybody else go through this? Hey 2002 racers! Be nice to each other out there and have FUN! ginsie <ginsiegirl@hotmail.com> - Sunday, June 02, 2002 at 15:44:19 (CDT) Good luck, all. Have a GREAT race! john <goodpaddle> - Saturday, June 01, 2002 at 22:27:49 (CDT) hey john put the grease paint on dude. lock and load. u are right river is very close to last yr. a little more junk frm. luling to gonzo, but clos. i would like either 6 inches or 3 ft. more water. i will be standing on the seawall when u finish this yr.. give it u;re best. good luck all TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN richard miller <richetel@yahoo.com> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 18:27:02 (CDT) Seem ballpark same this year/last year. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 16:51:32 (CDT) Here's for last year. What are they now? San Marcos River on 6-9-01 @ San Marcos 214 cfs at 5.53 ft. @ Luling 277 cfs at 6.61 ft. Guadalupe River on 6-10-01 @ Gonzales 1,090 cfs at 12.69 ft. @ Cuero 971 cfs at 5.34 ft. This was as far as we made it so I didn't log down the levels for the rest of the river. I get these from the USGS Daily site. I believe they are an average reading for the day. Take Care, Darryl Jiral # 3711 john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 16:03:36 (CDT) TOURING KAYAK FOR SALE. 14? Spectrum Aquaterra Expedition kayak (no rudder), red w/ accessories (spray skirt, cockpit cover, air bag + paddles). Total new value $950; asking $595 or best offer. Call 979-845-0283 (days); 979-690-067 (nights); or email sarcher@neo.tamu.edu. [College Station, TX] Steve Archer <sarcher@neo.tamu.edu> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 14:50:44 (CDT) CANOE FOR SALE: Old Town Penobscot 16? Royalex canoe (red) + accessories (straight and bent-shaft paddles, cane seat back, removable center bench, anchor). Total new value $1,400; asking $895 or best offer. Call 979-845-0283 (days); 979-690-067 (nights); or email sarcher@neo.tamu.edu. [College Station, TX] TOURING KAYAK FOR SALE. 14? Spectrum Aquaterra Expedition kayak (no rudder), red w/ accessories (spray skirt, cockpit cover, air bag + paddles). Total new value $950; asking $595 or best offer. Call 979-845-0283 (days); 979-690-067 (nights); or email sarcher@neo.tamu.edu. [College Station, TX] Steve Archer <sarcher@neo.tamu.edu> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 14:50:03 (CDT) QUESTION: Does anyone have notes...? How does the water level now compare to last year. Temp seems about the same. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 12:38:54 (CDT) Errr...what I meant to say below is that there are NO log jams between Tivoli and SeaDrift, not "now" jams. Robbie Cooper <scoop@austin.rr.com> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 09:17:52 (CDT) Ted, I paddled Tivoli to SeaDrift last weekend, and there are now jams the last several miles of the Guadalupe (or, oddly enough in the bay either *grin*). I don't know about the leg between Dupont and Tivoli though. Robbie Cooper <scoop@austin.rr.com> - Friday, May 31, 2002 at 09:16:23 (CDT) Do many people where gloves to do the safari? Or is it best to keep the hands slathered in diaper ointment? I used gobs of ointment last year and did'nt get any blisters, but my hands were swollen for about 2 weeks after the race. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Thursday, May 30, 2002 at 15:31:21 (CDT) POSSILBE PO'BOY FLOATATION: Polyurethane foam was tried years ago and found, eventually to break down and absorb water. The marine version was like $245 per can. Now, Home Depot has a new "waterproof" version at $5 per can, called Great Stuff!". If you imbed empty plastic water jars (gals &/smaller) in the foam you can create large floatation fore and aft for $10 or so and less weight than styroform. BE CAREFULL, THO. It expands by 2-4x over maybe 15 hours. Can deform yr boat. So apply in layers. (Floatation? There is little doubt, if I had had abundant floatation my 2 boats would have floated at the top of the 2 bad spots (a number of logs did) and NOT been sucked under/into the junk and current... would not have broken... I could have paddled on. Well worth the added 2-3lbs.) john <g> - Thursday, May 30, 2002 at 09:19:51 (CDT) Lordy, an power line laid underground and rivers could have 23,00 volts. Energize you for the next 50 miles. Heat yr MRE's... I just saw and lifted my boat over the pipe. It was to the left of a root system on a transriparian fallen tree. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, May 30, 2002 at 09:10:24 (CDT) Has anyone ran the Dupont to Seadrift section and are there any jams? Thanks, Ted. Ted <TEDTBSSS@AOL.COM> - Thursday, May 30, 2002 at 08:29:41 (CDT) Laura and Henry thanks again for the shuttle. FYI you can order the salmon from seabear.com and the heatermeals from heatermeals.com mike stinson <stinsonmike@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 17:35:22 (CDT) Dave. Each time we have ran this section we have gone over the large tree trunk. No small task but not difficult. The pipe is even more above the water line due to the river level making it a tough passage and the cable is connected to a submersible pump, where you no doubt felt the bite due to leakage voltage to an unproperly grounded pump. Paddler - Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 10:37:15 (CDT) john, you mentioned seeing a 4" pipe on the Luling/ Palmetto run this weekend, I saw the same pipe (I think it was just above I-10) The pipe along with a 3/8" steel cable next to it, both appeared to run to the riverbottom. One of the two had some power to it! hot, as in electricity...our aluminum passed on a slight shock or tingle to our hands through the handles while pushing over??? is that possible? if so, not good. Did anyone else get to check it out? Dave <dj@ocvauto.com> - Wednesday, May 29, 2002 at 01:34:05 (CDT) Does anyone know if Spencer's will be open the day of the TWS start? I am going to be down there for the start of the race and wanted to go check out their boats after I watch everyone run Cottonseed. Thanks Jeff Jouett <jj@visualcnc.com> - Tuesday, May 28, 2002 at 12:03:27 (CDT) WAY TO GO, JAY (RAINMAKER!)! Great rain last night. And, it hasn't yet turned scorching hot (evaporating as much water) as years past. More! More! Just one or 2 more, Jay. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, May 28, 2002 at 08:01:50 (CDT) !! SOS SOS CALL 911 #2 Running out of time and still need a TC. Plan to make the banquet and take a shot at a modest record. Fun. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Monday, May 27, 2002 at 10:34:42 (CDT) Kevin! Your pictures are a big part of Safari. It's always fun to look through the albums and see the year in review. We'll miss that! Ginger Turner Ginger Turner <gingerct@juno.com> - Monday, May 27, 2002 at 08:15:37 (CDT) Does anyone know if Pecan Grove will be accessible and continue to be a checkpoint this year? When we drove by today, there was a sign saying that they were closed until further notice due to some legal issues. If not, will the bridge then become the checkpoint? Steve Daniel <sdaniel@zydecodevelopment.com> - Sunday, May 26, 2002 at 18:01:09 (CDT) The Water Safari has always been special to me as a racer and in recent years as a photographer. I hope the photo albums have entertained and evoked memories. Photography is especially rewarding when you capture emotion, a class win and most of all a first finish. This could not have been accomplished without the continued support of all who purchesed my pictures. I am sad to announce there will be no more Safari albums. I will continue to photograph for personal pleasure and support teams as they compete. Thanks to all who have purchased photos but please make other arrangements if you want pictures of this year's race. Thanks again, Kevin Bradley Kevin Bradley <bradleyk@GVTC.com> - Sunday, May 26, 2002 at 12:50:15 (CDT) I'm sure Howard was quite a guy. I can't imagine rowing backwards 260 miles down the river. Sore neck!! He built some nice wood rowing rigs that will be enjoyed by people for years to come. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Thursday, May 23, 2002 at 23:19:28 (CDT) Condolences to the Gore family. FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR. NO REST FOR THE WEARY # 9 Stale Greek <www.stalegreek.com> - Thursday, May 23, 2002 at 17:38:00 (CDT) HOWARD I WILL MISS U. THE SAFARI LOST PART OF ITS 'LORE. I WAS LUCKY EHNOUGH TO HAVE RACED AGAINST U AND SHALL ALWAYS REMEMBER. I'M SURE THE LORD HAS A SET OF OARS THAT WILL FIT U'RE HAND DUDE. SEEE YA RICHARD MILLER <richetel@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, May 22, 2002 at 21:17:02 (CDT) Howard Gore, one of the Safari greats, passed away yesterday. Visitaion is this evening in Lake Jackson and the funeral is tomorrow 2:00PM in Freeport. He was a great competitor and a great contributor to the sport in Texas. Let's all keep his family in our prayers and remember him during the Safari this year. John Mark Harras <JohnMarkHarras@PZLQS.com> - Wednesday, May 22, 2002 at 07:57:07 (CDT) SOS, 911: My TC seems to be receiving a "can't refuse" job offer (eating, feedings kids is a good thing). Hence I urgently need a patient TC who would like to help make a small, happy bit of history. John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 17:20:37 (CDT) Hey "Tie Guys". I enjoyed your site. Lots of good pics. See you at the river. Asleep at the Keel <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 14:38:41 (CDT) I paddled the entire San Marcos between Christmas and New Year: high water, three or four fallen trees only, but the Old Mill rapid was "interesting" and I didn't run it. I suppose that the Old Mill is not a problem right now. Are you running it on the right side? I am planning to arrive to TX a few days before the race and do some paddling including Palmetto-Gonzales. Marek Uliasz, Colorado <uliasz@frii.com> - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 12:55:37 (CDT) Last year, I photographed all boats at Rio Vista, then we drove to Cottonseed, walked along a long line of parked cars and waited at least 20 minutes or longer for the first boat (http://www.frii.com/~uliasz/wayfarer/tws2001a.htm). I believe that first boats arrive at Cottonseed in about 1 hour. This year I am not photographing but paddling. However, maybe, I should photograph again at Rio Vista and then go to the start ... It wouldn't affect my overall safari performance. Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 12:46:53 (CDT) I experienced my first "safari sickness" while participating in last years race and I now find myself feeling sick because I am not participating in this year's race. I do plan to be at the start and will have my sons with me. Ages 4 1/2 and 1 1/2. After the start of the race I plan on going to Cottonseed to watch the boats come through. How long will it take to drive there from the start of the race, and how long is it before the first boats arrive there? Thanks...Jeff Jeff Jouett <jj@visualcnc.com> - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 12:13:28 (CDT) Paddled Gonzo checkpoint to Pecan Grove checkpoint on Saturday - clean and green all the way, with the usual minor sweepers. There is one area with a few down trees (open on river left). There was also large cypress tree down all the way across the river just before the bridge. TH Tom Helm <tom.m.helm@bhpbilliton.com> - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 10:16:38 (CDT) Most of this website is aimed at the novice, or less experienced Safariest.... I expect the old timers will see the stretch between Palmetto & the confluence as old hat. Less experienced boaters should still check it out.
At this water level, it isn't all that bad, low but not at all pushy. If the water rises during the race, and especially for the slower boats, doing this stretch at night... it could still be....'interesting'. Bunch of us paddled Luling to Gonzo 90a this weekend. It really is not that bad. Water is low but far from bone dry (it will go down some more if we don't get some rain). As for the junk, I had to get out of my boat 5 times: Palmetto lwb, Ottine, Son of Ott (takes 1 min to run boat down to the left), above S o O had to shove it over a 4 inch pipe to the left of tree roots (1 min or less), and below Palmetto there is a large jammer but with a straightforward portage up the bank and around to the right. ???What's the report on the "Gnarly" above Luling? John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 08:44:57 (CDT) Just wait to see the FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR ,gonadians this year. nothing less than double D's... COME OOOOON! An eliment that is, well...A tool, if you will,put in place to thrust our aluminum canoe into a new relm of mind boggle. YES! Here we come again, to set you free... Sincerly, FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR!!! No rest for the weary. stacy h greer <www.stacyhgreer.com> houston, tx usa - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 01:29:36 (CDT) just wait to see the FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR ,gonadians this year. nothing less than double D's... COME OOOOON! An eliment that is, well...A tool, if you will,put in place to thrust our aluminum canoe into a new relm of mind boggle. YES! Here we come again, to set you free... Sincerly, FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR!!! No rest for the weary. stacy h greer <www.stacyhgreer.com> houston, tx usa - Tuesday, May 21, 2002 at 01:21:41 (CDT) Geee.... Bob GREAT pix! Looks like a busy Saturday night for all the slow people. Calling all River Fairies!!! Bring your Saws and lots of elbow grease or be prepared to crawl through it in the dark :( Where are the big boat guys when you need them! CaptJack <captjack@ev1.net> - Monday, May 20, 2002 at 23:28:02 (CDT) I'm planning on doing Luling to Gonzo this Sunday. Looking for a shuttle if anyone is doing the same section. let me know. Will probably camp in Palmetto on Sat evening. mike mike stinson <stinsonmike@hotmail.com> - Monday, May 20, 2002 at 21:57:57 (CDT) Thanks for the pics! jon.schoepflin@nextel.com - Monday, May 20, 2002 at 17:37:29 (CDT) Lots of excitement on the lower San Marcos: Ran from Lulling down to Gonzo this weekend. Seems like every 100 yards there is a tree dropped directly across the river. LOTS of strainers. At this water level, they are not particularly dangerous, but they are a great nuisance. At slightly higher water, they could be very dangerous. Please scout the section from Palmetto to the Guadelupe confluence carefully ! A few pictures to illustrate: LogJam03.jpg
There is a 150' log jam between Palmetto & Slayden. Too loose to carry accross, too firm to bulldoze through: LogJam01.jpgSon of Ottine is currently unrunnable: SonOfOttine05.jpgYou can carry through the shallows on river right, and then over the fallen tree trunk: SonOfOttine07.jpgAlso, lots of evidence of river termites which happen to be making nice shoots through certain strainers. Lets be safe out there ! Bob Brooks <kayaker@tamu.edu> - Monday, May 20, 2002 at 17:11:42 (CDT) Rainmaker - Jay = I reckon you have the paddle now. Guess I need to get it one of these days. Please give me a call when in the area. Is there a big race coming up soon? Sure seems to be a lot of buzz on this billboard about some race. Take care and thanks. Chris Huff n Puff <agiedc@itouch.net> - Friday, May 17, 2002 at 23:23:37 (CDT) FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR # 9 Willie Nelson <Willie@everbodyssomebody.com> - Friday, May 17, 2002 at 18:56:54 (CDT) Does anyone know when the Safari entry list will be updated??? Thanks Boater - Friday, May 17, 2002 at 14:53:13 (CDT) Rain dance! Rain dance! RainMaker, do yr thing! john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, May 17, 2002 at 10:33:08 (CDT) Found-Polar Heartminder Heart rate monitor at the big jam between Palmetto and Slayden. If it's yours let me know. Jay Daniel <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.com> - Friday, May 17, 2002 at 01:17:31 (CDT) Is anyone going to be on the San Marcos between Luling 90 and Palmetto Park on Saturday? I plan on running that section and need a shuttle. charlie stewart <isdcps@chron.com> - Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 22:25:28 (CDT) Anyone interested in Lithium batteries with "bomb proof" packaging please call Bob Fay at Spectrum Batteries - 281-533-9596. Be prepared with the voltage and wattage rating of the bulb you intend to run and the length of time you HONESTLY plan to need illumination. This is a company located in Brookshire, Texas (a few miles west of Katy) that specializes in applications for oil field electronic equipment and wants to provide packs tailored specifically for the Safari at the best possible cost. Dave Bartell <dbart@lcc.net> - Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 18:45:47 (CDT) I just don't remember too clearly about her angina. She had a white stetson and an orange rodeo suit. She kept saying "You come over here, darling, and have a drink..." Eventually that became, "Whassa matter? U too good to drink with li'l ole me?" Her 2 sisters told me sotte voce that it might be best if I did... I kept looking upstream hoping for reinforcements, maybe I could introduce Kieffers Ken and Karl and hit the river before they caught on... When she got up, bottle in hand, I dived... Now, Ken and Karl never caught up with me that night and I've always wondered... John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 16:59:51 (CDT) Need your safari boat rigged? Composit water jug holders, bike bottle holders, pill bottle holders, rudders, lights, you name it. Phil Bowden (512)787-0535 Phil Bowden <pbowden@austin.rr.com> - Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 15:17:49 (CDT) I need some help, Please!!! My name is Scott Shirey and I will be covering the 2002 TWS as a freelance journalist with the goal of getting a fairly ambitious article published about the race. A well known national publication has at least committed to reviewing the submission for potential publication, but they have made no promises yet. I have explored other options as well and feel somewhat confident that this article will get some good exposure. What I need from y'all are email addresses of racers and captains participating in the 2002 TWS. I have an email questionaire that I would like to send out to everyone which will help me get to know you better and give me some perspective while I am covering your incredible exploits during the race. Thank you for your help. Scott Shirey 512-796-8364 Shirey@cometaustin.com Scott Shirey <Shirey@cometaustin.com> - Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 10:42:39 (CDT) Actually the Swan Slayer got a great look at Bugge's 9-man as it pulled around at Gonzo 90 last year. Hansen got to stare at Bugge's back disapearing in the distance. My fear is getting the same view of Bugge's solo boat from the same Swan Slayer. If that happens someone please bring kerosene and matches and we'll send the boat to its ultimate reward. Lee Deviney <txpaddler@aol.com> - Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 00:20:50 (CDT) 99 boats entered early. Is that more than last year's early entrants? 113 boats entered last year. Looks like another record could be set this year!! Tom <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Thursday, May 16, 2002 at 00:10:11 (CDT) Bob Brooks, check with Robert Youens or Zoltan Mraz to get a good description of the 2001 Bugge boat...... doug <dm@grs.com> - Wednesday, May 15, 2002 at 13:27:17 (CDT) Anyone know the exact length of John Bugge's 9-man last year ? I need to update the Trivia page:
trivia.html UH... After the Prelim one of the good guys in our community complimented me and some of the other oldies for our efforts and said he understood we were "recapturing our childhoods..." To which I said, "Huh?" (He meant well.) Thing is, they don't teach us in school about aging and prostates and angina and such. Basically, I don't recommend any of it. My advice: If you are given a choice, Don't (age). But, "Recapturing childhood?" I'm paddling for the same reason I played soccer as a youth, fought internationally for 15 years, international rugby, tennis, and chess, for decades: fun and fitness. At no point have I been noticeably out of shape. Gave up tennis about 5 years ago (my old pal died on me) and took up canoe racing. Must say that I was prolly better at rugby and judo than Safari. Never was outstanding at ultradistance, thought playing back-to-back rugby games, or 2 tennis 5-setters in one day was "endurance." Little did I know. I rather like to sleep. Anyway, we'll never know if I might have been any good. Prolly not very. Came in about middle in the Prelim, which means about 30 YOUNGER people were ahead of me. And, 30 younger people were behind me. I can't speak for Roger and Zoltan, or John Smith, but have the impression that they've been "paddling straight on thru..." like me. Don't mean to ramble. But, all you "kids" have a lot of years/decades of fun to look forward to, male and female, IF YOU STAY FIT. Age does take its toll: I believe we can count about 15 solo efforts by oldies since I've been around, and only Tore has finished (2x!!) (But, we're all pretty sure he's an android.) Anywho, I've got $5 on Zoltan to finish this year. And, I just might get lucky one of these years. Speaking of which: good luck, all! John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, May 14, 2002 at 22:54:12 (CDT) Looking for anyone interested in shuttling this weekend. Saturday, May 18 - paddling Staples to Luling 90. Sunday, May 19 - paddling Palmetto to Gonzo 90A or Gonzo 183. Dave Bartell <dbart@lcc.net> - Tuesday, May 14, 2002 at 16:51:26 (CDT) Snake Bite Kit, Disclaimer, I've never had to actually use mine but it looks like it will work. :) I like the Plunger type. It looks like a syringe, you place the suction cup over the wound and press down on the plunger and it causes a very strong suction that is suppose to suction out the poison. It has worked well on thorns impaled into my leg, but I havn't been unlucky enough to try it on a snake bite yet. You can get it at academy, REI and perhaps even walmart. Roy =:-) Roy Lewis <wwildchild@aol.com> - Tuesday, May 14, 2002 at 08:19:51 (CDT) - FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR - SAVE THE BEST FOR THE LAST Willie Nelson <WN@everbodyssomebody.com> - Monday, May 13, 2002 at 17:33:16 (CDT) Snake Bite Kits --- any suggestions on where to purchase (online or in Austin area), and suggestions on type/brand/model of snake bite kits? Thanks in advance. Robbie Cooper <scoop@austin.rr.com> - Monday, May 13, 2002 at 17:08:27 (CDT) Where for art thou Fumar Couchar Mopar? The entry list is updated thru May 10th, and no Team Lukenbach? Say it isn't s Wes Sheward <wessheward@yahoo.com> - Saturday, May 11, 2002 at 18:14:00 (CDT) Hey Roy, You mean mean person. I remember that wonderful glourious looking Klondie bar. You could see the chill of the bar in the heat of the day. After 38 miles of paddle that was REAL torchure! However, with my super strong will and determination (Team's name this year) I prevailed and the devil did not suceed in tempting me. However we'll look forward to two klondie bars at the finish. My daughter wants to be the youngest to ever finish the safari at 11 years old. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Friday, May 10, 2002 at 19:26:29 (CDT) Thomas, I don't know about most wild, but for just complete class and outstanding costume, the guys wearing burger King crowns and ties last year would have been my vote for last year at least. Perhaps there needs to be a consolation prize for best dressed, especially if carried throughout the race. Not to take away from the competitiveness of the race but rather instill a little fun. Hey wait, who said FUN this is a race, oh but wait we tourture ourselves to have FUN. HHmmnn I'm confused. Nurse more meds. Thomas, if you and your daughter are the best dressed I will personally give you two each a Klondike bar, just like the one I offered to you last year at Hochheim? (ok that was cruel (but fun) considering it was like 95 degrees and you were tempted with what would you do for a Klondik bar. Roy =:-) Roy Lewis <wwildchild@aol.com> - Friday, May 10, 2002 at 08:27:48 (CDT) For Rent, for this year's Safari. C-2 Veteran Boat . Heavy Duty reinforcement, Kevlar boat. Finished last years safari in good form. Spray Skirt,rudder, slider seats, very stable. $275.00 or best offer. Roland Guerrero <roland.guerrero@amd.com> - Friday, May 10, 2002 at 00:03:14 (CDT) SOLO BOAT for rent - Three time finisher solo kayak for rent.(4th place solo unlimited in 1997, 2000, 8th place solo unlimited in 2001) Includes boat, water jugs, spray skirt, light system, emergency single paddle, double paddle, PDF, Course description booklet, Team Captain manual with maps, racer equipment list, Team Captain equipment list. Will rent now till after finish of race.$ 250.00. email or call 972-293-6415 for further details. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Thursday, May 09, 2002 at 16:44:24 (CDT) HEAR YEA HEAR YEA, To the "Cowboys" and other loud colorful dressers of the Safari. We "Team Determination" do here by challenge all to the be the "loudest/brightest" dressers of the race. We believe we have it in the bag and will even put a case of beer or soda on the line to prove it. We'll even let you pick the judges since all paddlers are so honest! See you at the Safari. Thomas & Kathryn Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Thursday, May 09, 2002 at 16:34:44 (CDT) A reminder: The TCRA will hold it's Unlimited Championship race this Saturday, May 11 at Palmetto State Park, just south of I-10 off Hwy 183. Registration starts at 8 AM, with the following race start times: USCA 9:00 AM Solo (men and women) 9:10 Tandem (men, women, mixed) 9:20 3+ persons (genderless) 9:30 The USCA class is open to any USCA boat: Cruiser, Standard,or Aluminum. Registration fee is $10 for TCRA members and $15 for non-members. There will be an opportunity to join TCRA at registration. For more information or to volunteer to help with the race, contact Ginger Turner (512)459-5742 or Ginger Turner <gingerct@juno.com> - Thursday, May 09, 2002 at 07:11:01 (CDT) Paddlers...It's that time of year again...SAFARI time. Once again I'll be at the finish line awaiting your arrival, to assist you on your road to recuperation, relaxation and rejuvenation. Please call 713-355-HAND (4263) to make a (tentative) massage appointment to add the ultimate finishing touch to your 2002 TEXAS WATER SAFARI. Your SAFARI massage specialist- Carole A. Penning RMT - Wednesday, May 08, 2002 at 12:54:40 (CDT) A 3' X 6' silver lame sleeping bag (?) with velcro closures at the open end and a small net rectangle sewn into the other closed end was left on my car at the Prelim Finish in Victoria CP Saturday. If you are looking for it, let me know. Laura Fatter <lefatter1@mmm.com> - Wednesday, May 08, 2002 at 08:16:08 (CDT) I understand you had a race there this past weekend. Where can I view the results? Tony Short <backyardriver@nmo.net> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 22:50:37 (CDT) I drank 1.25 gals Sat and did not p for 6 hours.(Had the fluid in the front and the trim of my boat changed when it was gone.) Did not bonk, was strong eno at the end, but did not p much for 12 more hours..... (AM WRITING THIS FROM NOME, AL, WHERE I AM PREPARING TO PADDLE THE BERING STRAITS SAFARI IN JUNE/ PLS NO ONE MENTION MY WHEREABOUTS IN THE LULING RODEO COMMUNITY). goodpaddle <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 16:21:41 (CDT) I talked to Caldwell Co. SO and the Highway Patrol troopers in Luling and they will start patrolling the Hwy 90 bridge checkpoint more often on Saturday and Sunday afternoons. The Seguin bridge is outside Luling PD's area but they will probably be the first to arrive if you call 911 needing help. If you have a problem there but do not need police assistance, call Caldwell Co. SO (512-398-4343) and let them know about the problems you are having. The more instances they know of trouble down there the closer they will patrol the area. Above all else, stay safe. Darryl Jiral #3711 <drj@co.hays.tx.us> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 14:14:47 (CDT) Ken K.,I pray that the Colonel realizes what a special friend he has in someone who will go through such an exhaustive search to find a motivative team captain prospect such as the likes of RODEO GAL!....it truely warms my heart to see the lengths that one will go to help a fellow safariest get to Seadrift!!....In fact, I am so touched by this revelation that I would be honored to be RODEO GALS "special assistant captain" come June!....while she`s waitin on the Colonel she could show me a thing or two bout "Bull Ridin"!! doug <dm@gs.com> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 13:40:27 (CDT) The Colonel just didn't know that the RODEO GAL is the front runner in the bid to be his team captian. In the ad for the job I stressed the importance of being able to intimidate a crusty ol' ex-marine back into the water....she passed the first interview with flying colors. She is in training too, and up to a liter of Jack Black before she is out cold...Don't worry she will be on top of her game come June, and if yer not careful that is not all she will be on top of... Ken K <pmf@y.c> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 13:02:17 (CDT) Hello paddling people~! How do I get on a team? When is this race? I have tons of experience with Marathon paddling but nothing like TWS. I live in Belize Central America, we have a race here called La Ruta Maya, it isn't nonstop. I love to read the stories about the snakes and alligators, we have saltwater crocs, sharks and manatee we paddle around. Sounds like maybe we could get some of the TWSer's down here to play. Nothing like Luling 90 here, the worst is the rude Howler monkeys at Bermudian Landing.
Ever hear of the La Ruta Maya Belize River Challenge? 170 miles over four days. Check out the website, www.bighjuices.com I have completed the race twice and it was alot of fun and beautiful vistas along the Belize River. It is for three paddlers only in a 16 foot canoe or now they are building 3 person 20 footers specially for the race. I reccommend it to anyone women, men and mixed. The only thing that womens cash prizes are grossly unbalanced for the men to the womens teams. IE. mens 1st place-$3000
womens 1st place- $900.00 Aside from that it is a good race. AND NOW FOR THE REST OF THE STORY....!! Colonel Stockwell shatters the all time record to Palmetto as Kieffer pulls into Luling to face the forlorn rantings of the 300LB RODEO GAL!!!.........what happend next??? more safari lore?? doug <dmackay@grindingsource.com> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 11:13:58 (CDT) Water usage: I agree with John that water usage is highly individual. I am constantly fighting dehydration, tend to drink more than most. I went through 3 jugs on Saturday, for instance, my partner went through only 2. Particularly on the first day, I really have to force hydration, after which my body adapts and fluid needs go down. Don't know any scientific basis behind this, but it's pretty consistent with me. Jay's pee test is pretty much the only way to really know if you're getting enough, although many times you won't pee at all for the first few hours of the race. Jerry Brown <jsbrown15@attbi.com> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 11:12:25 (CDT) I tried using a bite valve once and promptly ditched it. It caused more resistance, making harder to suck the water, and caused my mouth to hurt. I use 3/16" ID tubing, works fine for me even with longer tubes. I think part of the problem that some folks run into is that they try to suck really hard to get the same amount that they might through a regular straw in their Sonic Cherry Limeade (love those). Just keep a little bit going almost constantly rather than trying to chug, may work better for you. Jerry Brown <jsbrown15@attbi.com> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 11:05:11 (CDT) Perils of Luling: Couple of years ago I narrowly escaped being pummeled at Luling gravel bar by a 300-lb female rodeo person. Running fm SMCP to Palmetto, was waiting for Kieffer to go into Luling for dinner. She and pals were drinking hard whisky, to loud music. She wanted to talk, wanted me to drink. I was polite for ten minutes then tried to excuse myself so I could tweak my boat and rest. She took offense, became increasingly belligerent--little question in my mind that she was capable of throwing a serious right hook, or sitting on me, if she got the chance. Craven, I eventully shoved my boat out into the current and dived after it, while she was plowing into the water after me. Recovered my boat around the bend, and paddled on. True story. :-> :-> john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 08:38:19 (CDT) Water jugs. You are not using bite valves in your jugs? Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 07:31:41 (CDT) I just made up an interesting scatter chart of the results of last weekend's race. I graphed times against Classes: 02trmrGraph.html Bob Brooks <kayaker@tamu.edu> - Tuesday, May 07, 2002 at 02:14:10 (CDT) Vance- I agree with Jay- if you're using 3/8" hose on your water jug- that's what's making your jaw muscles sore. Use the 3/8" tubing to come out of the jug a few inches- then run the rest in 1/4" - I put the 3/8" tubing in boiling water and put the 1/4" tubing in the freezer before I put them together- it makes it a lot easier - I get my white rubber corks at a place that sells supplies for making home made beer - I put a "V" slot in the bottom of the 3/8" tube so that it can't pull a suction on the bottom of the jug - I also put a piece of a plastic toothpick between the 3/8" tubing where it goes through the rubber cork- for a small vent hole. The 1/4" tube never makes my jaw sore- the 3/8" tube sure did! The following URL address goes to a picture of one of my waterjugs. Safari Jugs CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 21:44:58 (CDT) Vance: you probably need to go to a smaller drink tube. The smaller the diameter the easier it is to get fluid through. Look at the tubes on a Camel Back or such system and they are about 1/4" id. Jay Daniel <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 19:27:16 (CDT) Luling 90 problems. I have run into this before on the river. Is there anything that can be done. Should we get the Sheriff involved? Jon Schoepflin <jon.schoepflin@nextel.com> - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 18:34:02 (CDT) Have any of you experienced a sore mouth after paddling all day?? The pain is hard to describe, but it hurts especially when I eat. The pain is generally in the roof of my mouth and lasts a day or so. It may be attributed to drink tubes, but I don't know for sure. Serious replies only, please. Vance Jones <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 18:24:56 (CDT) Marek, water consumption is a very individual thing. Dave Bartell and I seem to "pump" a lot more fluid that some others, for me almost twice as much as some. Over time you can run tests: Weigh just before you paddle. Keep up with how much you drink. ?8 lbs per gallon? Weigh when you take out. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 17:51:48 (CDT) Beware of Luling 90. When I came through there was a large party upstream from the bridge with the most viscious dogs I've seen in a while. Thank God for deep water there. They were filling the river up with beer cans. As i came by the parking lot a gang started throwing rocks at me. They missed me but hit the boat once. Luling 90 seems to have reverted to it's former self. I certainly would not have wanted to have had my shuttle parked there. Phil Bowden <pbowden@austin.rr.com> - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 01:54:29 (CDT) When I started doing the TWS an old timer told me that if I was peeing less than every two hours I wasn't drinking enough. If I was peeing more than once an hour I was drinking too much. I suppose thats not very scientific but it seems to work. On log clearing: If someone is inclined to think log clearing is the proper thing to do would they please get the 17 or 18 major logs (including two Jams) between Palmetto and 90A. I mean forget hte daylight stuff if you're gonna do it, get the stuff we're (at least I) gonna see in the dark! Jay Daniel <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 01:13:56 (CDT) Marek, Here is a link I followed from the Tips & Guides section of this website: Hydrate Or DieKent <shout@thisthing.net> - Monday, May 06, 2002 at 00:03:00 (CDT) Marek On water consumption. It depends on how heavy a sweater you are. I sweat a bunch. Last year I consumed about one quart per hour, but we were going at a moderate pace. When we pick up the pace on our practice runs I consume close to 2 quarts per hour when the weather is hot. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 23:47:02 (CDT) Roger, I loved yr account of 1963, the history, lore, and insights. Had thought about noting that people were zinging our only "original." Besides jam cleaning/riverratting is therapeutic. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 21:17:23 (CDT) Correction, Laura Fatter. Still hypoxic from the race (or was it all the beer?!). Susie Jechow <jec@delrio.com> - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 18:19:56 (CDT) Can anyone tell me what happened to Laura McFatter in the River Marathon? Susie Jechow <jec@delrio.com> - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 18:13:14 (CDT) On water consumption, 1/2 gallon every four hours seems to keep me going. Roger Zimmerman <a-zsurplus@tisd.net> - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 16:18:28 (CDT) Ice. Are there any formal restrictions on ice containers during safari? Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 11:44:13 (CDT) Water consumption. Does anybody have experience how much water is needed when paddling in different climates: Texas - very hot and humid and Colorado, Utah, etc - not so hot, but very dry and often windy. I understand that in Texas about 1 quart/hour is recommended. I suspect that when paddling in dry Colorado I may be loosing more water. Even with relatively cool temperatures in May I don't have troubles to drink 1 quarter or more per hour. I need to extrapolate my Colorado paddling experience to the Texas conditions. Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 11:39:52 (CDT) My bad -- our "after" picture from the '92 TWS is at the "Stories and Photos" part of this site.... ahhhh, and it feels like it was only yesterday... (no -- yesterday's Prelim wasn't anywhere close to that of the '92 TWS!) Mary Wilson <icanoe40@yahoo.com> - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 09:32:04 (CDT) To Linda and all others involved in the organization and running of the Prelim yesterday -- THANKS !!! It's always great to know u r there! And a HUGE congratulations to all the novice teams who finished the race! Welcome to the Prelim. (this is JUST a taste of what's in store for u...). Now, two side notes: first, Bob Brooks and I stayed at the Country Comfort RV Park in Victoria Friday night -- nice place, but NO comfort -- no showers or toilets! Nope, not even a port-a-potty. But alas, we thank Scott "Asleep at the Keel" Johnson for the use of his toilet and shower if needed -- he camped right next to us! And, on my second side note: my 2-cents worth on clearing downed trees/log jams at Palmetto State Park -- many folks swim in the river at the park and some could potentially be swept downstream, consequently into a downed tree. I had a friend drown on the Brazos at Hearne in 1990 because he dove in to save his son who'd slipped off a sand bar while walking back to shore. Both had become trapped in a tree that was submerged and out of sight. I have no qualms about clearing any trees or debris of this sort at or below a swimming or fishing area. On the rest of the river, I see no problem with it either as when water levels rise, that debris often is carried further downstream to cause more problems (perhaps for those living on the river and who swim off their land adjacent to the river). Again, my experience and my opinion. (ahhhh, I love America!) p.s..... for those who do not know me, I am a 1992 finisher, a TWS Race Official in 1999 (Staples and Gonzales 183 Gravel Bar), and am competing again this yr with Bob Brooks -- I'm the one on the left in the picture of 3 raggedy paddlers and a clean team captain on his unofficial safari homepage.) Mary Wilson <icanoe40@yahoo.com> - Sunday, May 05, 2002 at 09:24:26 (CDT) Now to more serious matters. I have nearly completed an Excel spreadsheet showing all the TWS finishers, 1963-2001, to go in the History section of this web page. And let us not forget to thank Bob Brooks for his good work in hosting the web page. I am missing the 1983 TWS records. If anyone has it, could you mail me a copy and say you did it on the Billboard so I don't waste people's time with multiple copies. Thanks, Roger Zimmerman 210 Madera Dr. Victoria, TX 77905 Roger Zimmerman <a-zsurplus@tisd.net> - Saturday, May 04, 2002 at 22:27:25 (CDT) Hey folks!!! If you wanted log jams, you should have been with me on the 347 mile 1963 TWS. There were 59 log jams on the San Marcos River. Not just a tree across, but big tangled jams, many stacked up as high as the river banks and many several 100 feet long. There was a log jam below highway 35 that was 3 miles long. No one cleared the river back then except the GBRA, who concentrated from the Salt Water Barrier up to the Railroad Trestle. If people don't clear the river it will be like that again. Every one of those trees down across the river will be the start of a big log jam. In 1963 after portaging around the 3 mile log jam below Hiway 35 in misquotes so heavy you could hardly breathe, we had a mandatory portage to the right (down toward the wooden bridge) across 2 miles of swamps, mud and even more misquotes into the bay and paddled across to Austwell. It took some boats a full day to do this portage and several quit the race because it was too tough for them. They gave us 9 days to get to Austwell because of the log jams and the overland portage. The lead boat's time was into Austwell was 96:35 (4 day 35 minutes) and they were rowing at a good pace. I was one of the last ones into Austwell arriving in the afternoon of the 7th day in the first solo boat down the river. No other solo boats got to Austwell. We had to camp out on the beach at Austwell until the morning of the 10th day for the three bay legs to Corpus to start. Many of us were out of food and scrounged crabs and oysters. They did give us water there and in the mornings before each bay leg, but nothing until you got to the next camp. Each bay leg started at official sunrise and you had to be to the next camp by official sundown. We hit 40 knot winds on the 11th day down around Rock Port. Around 56 boats started in San Marcos and 15 of us were left in the race at Austwell. Eleven boats capsized in 6-8 foot breaking swells and were rescued by the Coast Guard or swam there own way to shore. Four boats, me included, reached the inland intercoastal canal and proceeded not only against the wind, but against an outgoing tide. Only two reached reached Ingleside before official sundown. I was a couple of miles short and got disqualified. Only two boats finished the race. The GBRA back then kept the Guadalupe reasonably clear above the salt water barrier and they have been doing a fairly good job from Dupont to the bay in the last couple of years. Otherwise you would have miles long jams between Dupont and the bay. Do you want GBRA to stop their cleaning of log jams? Heaven forbid!! So don't tell me what a tough TWS is like. I've been on one of the toughest ones. We had to drink river water while on the river. Don't know when they started team captians to hand out water and ice. What we have now is nothing like back then. An even tougher one was the 1966 377 mile TWS that ended in Freeport. Only one boat finished. So if you want tough, add the long bay legs back in. High winds in the bay has proven to be much tougher than the log jams. And make every one go solo!! Men and women against the river and bay. Let me hasten to add that I would rate the river part of the current TWS races as tough or tougher than the first race, but for different reasons. The river portion (including to Austwell or Seadrift) of the race was shortened from 9 days (216 hours) in 1963 to the current 100 hours (4 days 4 hours). In 1963 I only heard of one boat paddling at night and they turned over and lost all their food. Got disqualified at Austwell because they had more food. You now have to paddle at night to finish and many paddle straight through with no sleep. With fewer log jams, you sit in the boat and paddle longer at a time and body parts go to sleep, your butt hurts, you hallucinate, you have trouble standing when you do get out, you get cramps, you get nauseated, some loose their ability to navigate or think clearly, etc. etc. So in a way, fewer log jams make it harder because you paddle longer at a time. People also run higher heart rates and paddle a lot faster now than back in 1963. If you ever see me trimming the river again, just don't thank me on the Bulletin Board. Besides, how much trimming could a 64 year old do anyway? I'm too old and lazy to do much. Jay, if you want to put this in the TCRA newsletter you have my permission. Roger Zimmerman Class of 1963 Roger Zimmerman <a-zsurplus@tisd.net> - Saturday, May 04, 2002 at 22:16:36 (CDT) I like to brag a little bit and I like to beat people that I don't like. Most people like to brag at least a little. What if someone I don't like says "I did the safari in 56 hours last year". And I said "well I did it in 62 hours this year, but I would have beat your time if it wer'nt for all those log jams that nobody cleared because they did'nt think that it was natural to clear them". Do you think what I said is going to mean anything, NO IT WON'T. My friend will just say "Yea, excuses. Excuses are like buttholes, everybody's got one and they all stink. And I will go down in the books as having a worse time than my friend whom I don't care for. It is justifiable to have a slower time when the water is flowing slower, you can always look at the cfs records and have a good excuse, but nobody keeps a record of how bad thelog jams were. Go Chainsaws!! True Texan <Willcall@hotmail.com> - Friday, May 03, 2002 at 23:43:53 (CDT) I'm in Victoria tonight away from my computer. Tried to access the Safari sight to print out an entry form for tomorrow's race and can't get the link to work. Is the site down? Wanted to fill it out tonight vs. tomorrow. See some of you at the race. Jeff Jouett <jj@visualcnc.com> - Friday, May 03, 2002 at 18:59:39 (CDT) For Sale: South African K-1, Flyte Model, Fiberglass layup w/ overstern rudder and spray skirt included. Excellent condition, has only seen flat water. 500$ Epic Excalibur Mid (Wing) 2 piece length lock, cost ~470$ barely used will sacrifice for 350$. Epic Wayfarer one piece w/ safari feather angle - good condition 250$. Can deliver to Prelim or Unlimited races. Ken Kieffer <perromasfuerte@yahoo.com> - Thursday, May 02, 2002 at 12:11:23 (CDT) It's true, I saw very few snakes during the race, as compared to the multitude we counted to entertain ourselves during practice. Now, regarding the front-runners scaring off the snakes....I guess that makes sense, but if you go as slow as we did, I think the snakes would have safely assumed the race was over by the time we got down to the lower Guad. Regarding the gators, don't worry about them. By the time you get to gator country, you will not give a damn about the gators! We had to portage over a tree down in gator country in the middle of the night, and the gators seemed quite entertained. They were swimming around trying to get better viewpoints, I think, to watch our efforts. I hope they were small, but hard to tell when all you see is the glowing red eyes....even the big ones have narrow, beady eyes. Only time I worried about them was when 'natured' called that same night during a big portage. It is amazing what wrapping a rope around your waist and pulling a boat will do to a previously inactive digestive system....... Kevin <Trainwreck20@hotmail.com> - Thursday, May 02, 2002 at 11:36:10 (CDT) Thanks, Capt J.K.-----That makes perfect sense about the snakes and gators. Gives me warm fuzzies. Now, as far as practice runs go, I'll just use all the accumulated knowledge about rigging lights to the boat, and apply it towards a couple hundred watts of heavy-metal off the bow as I approach gator-land. Oughta get 'em scampering. I don't think duracell will suffice, though. I'm thinking deep cycle marine cells---(whoa! I'm only kidding!!! I think some pissed off landowner or fisherman would be far more dangerous than a ol' alligator). Kent <shout@thisthing.net> - Wednesday, May 01, 2002 at 23:56:42 (CDT) "Cleanin' up the river" It doesn't mean squat what we say or what we feel about the river because Kiefer is right! The week before the race Bugge, the Mynars- etal will do a quick run down to make sure there's nothing there that can slow down the big boats. It's their race- we are all the also rans / maybe finished? - To the guy worried about the snakes? by the time you get to an obstacle where a snake or a gator might have been hangin' out- nada- not during the race- too many other people plowin' down the river ahead of you. It's not like practicing on the river before the race- by the time you run 100+ boats down the course in the time frame of a few hours- you won't see any wildlife- unless your DeVoglaer & Shea :) CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Wednesday, May 01, 2002 at 18:31:16 (CDT) Richard- Klausmeyer's probably not around his puter at the moment- but yeah- he & Balcolm did their Novice Aluminum in 97 and ran Standard in 99. They were also the officials at 236 in 98. CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Wednesday, May 01, 2002 at 18:19:39 (CDT) Hey Greg have u finished a TWS? If so, what year? This befor i unload on u. RICHARD MILLER TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN richard miller team grumpy old men <richetel@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, May 01, 2002 at 18:13:48 (CDT) Futzing with the course is like paving the Baja 500. If you want to keep it known as "The Worlds Toughest Boat" you should let nature do its thing. I agree completely with Mackay and Kieffer. In fact Doug and I are bringing in scrap logs and creating 3 jams on Thursday before the race Won't tell you where they will be but -hint "near rapids". I guess that will make us River "Gnomes". Cue the evil laughter. Greg Klausmeyer <hammer1@pdq.net> - Wednesday, May 01, 2002 at 16:33:34 (CDT) A reminder that all who pre-registered for the Prelim still need to check in to sign insurance waivers (they must be witnessed) and to pick up t-shirts. The put-in there is very narrow and steep allowing only one boat at a time to launch so get there early enough to be in the water ready to start at 9 a.m. Good luck to all and see you there. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Wednesday, May 01, 2002 at 16:11:09 (CDT) For Tom Pope and others. I placed results of a lantern battery test (2 6 volt Duracells in series driving an MR11 12v12w bulb)in the tips and suggestions section. Before the veteran karate chops come I do acknowledge that I AM a Safari FNG - actually at over 50 I'm a Safari FONG - a @#$%... Old New Guy. Dave Bartell <dbart@lcc.net> - Wednesday, May 01, 2002 at 14:18:52 (CDT) First of all, let me say I'm not racing this year, and not until I've adequately scouted the entire course.--------- So, uh, about these water mocassins... What is the ratio of sightings for land vs. water, i. e., sightings-while-portaging/sightings-while-paddling? I've only been on the San Marcos once, and never on the Guadelupe, so I know nothing of log jams. I'm think that seeing snakes in the wa ter is not nearly scary as bumping into one on a portage. I suppose the same for log jams. I know they love to sit on branches overhanging from shore. I've heard they can be territorial and aggressive. Yow! I read somewhere on one of the TWS websites that no participant ever been bit. I don't want to be first (or second, third, etc...)!--------- My worst experience with snakes was on Brushy Creek in Round Rock. Stay away from Brushy Creek!!! I discovered the creek and thought it looked excellent. I'm a sit-on-top kayaker and love to find streams and paddle all day upstream, leaving time to paddle back. I love fighting the current, but sometimes I have to walk a lot upstream, pulling the boat. I thought the creek passed under Parmer Lane. I parked in Round Rock and began my journey upstream. It was shallower than it looked from the road, but I thought it was deep enough for a fantasic ride all the way back. I was obsessed with making it to Parmer Lane. I hoped to find a put-in/take-out at Parmer Ln, scout that section of stream, etc. I finally made it to the road. It was not Parmer, it was FM1431. I turned around to go home, and the water was too shallow to float home. Boy did I feel stupid. I walked back most of the way. I suppose it totalled about a 15 mile round trip. It sucked.--------- After a couple hours, I made a mistake and went river left, instead of river right. The stream dead ended in a shallow pool, about 20ft across, about one foot deep. Snakes sleeping in the mud starting zinging across the pool in every direction. There were tens of them, and I was terrified. It was close to sundown. I was prepared to head back upstream until I found a take-out, just leave my boat and walk to my truck if I had to. A $600 kayak is not worth a poison snake bite. Fortunately the shore at the downstream end of the pool consisted largely of wide open, flat rocky area. It was really grassy, good for snakes, but I guess the stream had kept it generally swept clean. Unfortunately, the only way back to the creek was either back through the snakes or through dense trees and undergrowth (more snakes?). My kayak is the Ride by Wilderness Systems, and at 13.5ft long, I stood at the stern and slowly shoved the boat into the trees, rustling it around, hoping to scare away any snakes that may lay ahead.-------- It's wierd, cuz of that 'it can't happen to me syndrome'. At the time, I'm was thinking simultaneously 1)its so hard to believe its gonna happen to me, and 2)people really DO get snake bites, and how could I possibly get out of here without getting munched?-------- I'm scared of all the portaging on the Safari. And what about those gators?!?!
Chris paddack and I used D cells to power a 12v 12w MR-11 for our practice runs in 2000. We used 10 to give a voltage of 15. They would last us for about 5 different 3 hour night runs. This is in line with John's time of 10 hours as Alkaline batteries will "recover" if unused for a period of time. After the 5th night run they would come on but would soon after change to a sickly yellow golw. Jay Daniel <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 21:31:06 (CDT) I should have said that the 6 volt batteries I opened were Duracell. They had the same part number as the D cells. It sounds like energizer makes a better 6 volt. A note to those using MR-11's. Their design voltage is 13.5. Jay Daniel <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 21:04:09 (CDT) But Norm- yuz forgot to tell the FNGs that's yuz a "RANGER" and that's why you put up will all that S_*T! and if you never walk out of the woods at Benning- they don't come lookin' fur ya... (sounds like Doug's lease at AlligatorLk :) I sleep paddled from Swingin Bridge to Tivoli last year zzzzzzzzzzzzzz.................remember to tie your paddle to you or the boat! as long as you or the boat are going SE you'll eventually get there.... maybe... CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 18:25:36 (CDT) Man, oh man, love this billboard --- stopped laughing long enough to decide to put my two cents in -- and you oughta know I'm just an ig'nant unskilled paddler who loves this race, first did it and finished in '78 with a buddy in a big old aluminum barge and a rucksack full of Chef Boyardee, then 20 years later got a few solos in a rudderless plastic sit on top, and an old/, was a pretty good kevlar, til I busted it in Cottenseed/ canoe --- anybody who 's bored with how easy this race/adventure is oughta jump in your scow and come with me: take the tour through the monkey temple that is between Victoria and Dupont (the 4 hr. side trip down to Middle earth is worth the effort); or you can park your dinghy with me just outside of Gator Lake and take the 3 hr. nature hike/ search for a pay phone. If that merely wets your whistle for real adventure, don't eat after Victoria, dump all your water at Tivoli, and spend 10 hrs. exploring scenic San Antonio Bay; run aground with me on the sandbar in the middle of the bay and just stare at the 25 mph wind for a couple of hours ( you really can see the individual molecules zip past); or capsize with me in the barge canal, get stuck in your spray skirt til you are completely out of air, trapped by your life jacket upside down against the boat and realize how truly peaceful it is out of the wind and waves til you have to argue with yourself to come topside; finally, crab crawl the last mile through the water dragging your boat because you can't paddle and you can't stand. Then repeat annually. See you on the river. And at the logjams. And at the Mo Norm Thomas <nthomas90252@aol.com> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 17:57:41 (CDT) I need Fuzzy Churchman's new email add. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 17:41:18 (CDT) I opened a square Energizer lantern battery and found 4 DOUBLE D'S inside, not D-cells. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 16:06:22 (CDT) Tom, 3 years ago I cooked not a few batteries ($$) and kept notes. This could not be considered a comprehensive test, and there are a lot of variables (why people are so reluctant to post info about batt. lives-- for example, 2 years ago I got about 2 hours out of a faulty lithium pack, which proved only that there was something wrong with that l. pack). But, basically, I got over 20 hours with combinations of the 6 volt "lantern" batteries and something over 10 hours with D-cell packs. This might give you a starting point. Good luck. john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 16:04:04 (CDT) Dave It will be interesting to see the results of your battery testing. Last year we used mr 11 with two alkaline 6volt batteries in series. We got good use for 1.5 nights on each set. We took 4 batteries. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 12:37:18 (CDT) I think a lot of excellent points have been raised regarding grooming of the river, specifically the safari course. I am not a wild-eyed log hugger and when I am paddling for fun, fishing and the like I would also prefer clear passage down the river. Sometimes I think a few properly placed C-4 charges would clear up some of the more stubborn jams and open the river up for greater enjoyment. This discussion board and the people posting here are not talking about camping and fishing, we are talking about racing and granted many people that are running safari are not "racing" per se but are looking for that elusive finish. The pervasive thought with this type of safarist is the clearer the course, the fewer boat crunching possibilities, easier passage and greater chance for them to finish. With the best intentions these folks go about chopping a neat line through the stuff. Now to some of the more serious competitors you are tipping the scales to the advantage of certain classes of boat/racers through this modification of the course. Think of it as you would playing a game of chance, if you have been dealt a hand form a well shuffled deck and you get crap, it is still fair. Now if you introduce an artificial bias into your shuffling (put all face cards on top) it is no longer random or fair. Everyone has to negotiate the same set of obstacles so I say the most equitable (and random) scenario is to deal with the hand nature has dealt us, not one that has biased by our actions. Looking at the opposite end of the spectrum if modifying the course by clearing debris (and affecting certain peoples/boats advantage) should it be equally acceptable for folks to close up these passages??is this really any different? Good luck to all in the race. Ken K <pmf@y.c> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 11:08:59 (CDT) Tom, A good question that many of us newbies want answered as well. Will alkaline do the job instead of lithium? My guess is that if trying to drive the MR-11 bulb (12V, 12W),the answer is no, unless the weight of two (possibly more) change outs per night is not a factor (my arms ache already thinking about the long-haul Gonzo dam portage). Energizer's website shows that the 6 volt lantern battery is rated for higher current capacity than the D cell. So at equal voltage in series the lanterns should do better. The problem with alkaline is the assumption of voltage decay to a cutoff point in providing the capacity numbers (.8 volts for a 1.5 volt cell). It is hard to know if the bulb will continue to burn at the lower voltage. Certainly if it does it will dim considerably. So how much of the time that the bulb stays illuminated will it be useable? Beats me. Probably need a milder, lower voltage bulb than the 12V MR-11 if running alkaline. Forget the numbers. I will make run-time tests in the next week on the MR-11 bulb (12V, 12W). One test with 8 in-series D cell alkalines and one with 2 in-series lantern batteries. I'll let you know. I will also have a test on the lithium cells (at 13.2V)done very soon as well. Dave Bartell <dbart@lcc.net> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 10:29:17 (CDT) RE: Kevin> Ah shucks... I meant 10%- didn't even catch the typo- 1% sounds even better :) - I noticed a few other typos floating through that post... CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 09:01:52 (CDT) RE: battery question. Tom If you are refering to the square lantern batteries they will last the same amount of time as the D cells. If you open them up you will find 4 D cells inside. Jay Daniel Jay Daniel <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 08:52:19 (CDT) Mackay, I will be like Paul and leave this site to wonderful gentleman like you. Maybe I should ask your father-in-law about tree trimming. And yes, I trained with the Navy Seals and look forward to running my C-1s during Safari. And I bet everyone that paddles to Seadrift is thinking about Safari Lore as they pass a tree that was trimmed and opted to portage instead. Later, dude.... Henry - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 08:25:18 (CDT) 171 of 1784 is 1%, eh, CaptJack? Not to be picky, but seems closer to 10%. ;-) Kevin <Trainwreck20@hotmail.com> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 07:20:18 (CDT) Battery Opinion wanted: What will last longer to power a 12 volt light bulb? Two 6 volt alkaline batteries in series or 8 D batteries in Series. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 00:30:55 (CDT) OK. I have a compromise for everyone. I personally think that it is extremely courteous to move debris for the next person coming down the river. I paddled the section of river that was cleared, the day before it was cleared. I did'nt enjoy getting out of river every 5 minutes to hop a log. On the Safari, I and most others will take the cleared route and you purists can take the uncleared route. That way everyone will be happy!! Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Monday, April 29, 2002 at 00:26:43 (CDT) Here's one for the bird watchers. While on the river Saturday, two thirds of the Grumpy Old Men team spotted a Caracara about 25 minutes above Fentress. This is of the Falcon family and is also a bird rarely seen north of extreme south Texas. Charlie stewart <isdcps@chron.com> - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 21:08:59 (CDT) When the first man hollowed out a log and floated down a river he started clearing the logs out of the way. We are a part of nature. If we are going to leave nature alone we have to all commit Hari-Kari and then there will be no more humanoids to mess with nature. Not trying to get in the fuss, just making a point. I am fifty eight and hope to be two of two this year. Keep clearing, us grumpy old men need all the help we can get. Sir Nate, (The Grumpiest Old Man) Nathan Stewart <sirnate@txuvcom.net> - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 12:49:30 (CDT) Careful there young(Novice) grasshopper(Woodrow) least the Master Elites come take a chainsaw to you! - This race has a pecking order(Rank) and you're not even a Private E-1 yet- If you finish you're first race in Novice Aluminum they might raise your rank to PFC. Be careful- some Major or Colonel RiverRat doen't come squash you like a little newbie- best to keep your opinions to yourself :) CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 09:17:20 (CDT) P.S. to my last mail, Big Willie and Frank Brown did'nt have a soul clearing trees for them. To clear the river is an insult to their great efforts. Anything less would be comparing Powell's expidition to the lazy river at the water park. OK , I'm goig to be frank; if you feel you need debris cleared in the race; then maybe you don't need to be in the race. woodrow courtney <hellbentcelt@aol> - Sunday, April 28, 2002 at 00:34:13 (CDT) the work of those clearing the river, I do appreciate, but the nature of this race I also feel, has been comprimised.I understand that I am a novice at this race, but I think I have the concept down like a old head, "man against nature". to make this race anything else would be turning it into one of those "unnamed" shoe company races. Please, let the dice roll as they may. Leave the river alone. The true race is against the river, not against each other. woodrow courtney <hellbentcelt@aol> - Saturday, April 27, 2002 at 23:44:59 (CDT) Harvey Babb has moved to Gonzales Warm Springs Rehab Center near Palmetto Park. Spoke with him on the phone this afternoon and he seems to be doing well. Keep up those prayers for the Babbs. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Saturday, April 27, 2002 at 17:03:04 (CDT) Talkin' about making the Safari TOUGH? Try it SOLO! Since the race started in 1963- 1784 boats have finished the race- of those- 171 Solo boats have finished the race- that's 1%!!- Owen West is 14 of those solo finishes- There are many others with multiple solo finishes - Others of much notice- Kathey Derrick was the 1st woman soloist in 1976- I don't know the facts, but if I know Kathy, it was probably C-1- no rudder, single blade. There wasn't another woman soloist until 1986 when Marie McKay finished the 1st of her 3 solo finishes. There have only been 5 women to finish the race solo with Erin McGee's 52:45 being the fastest. Then there's Mark Simmons' 3- 1st in C-1 with the fasted C-1 finish of all time at 40:13- folks, there is no harder way to do the Safari than in C-1 !!! - how about Steve Landick's all time Solo time of 36:08, that's the 4th fastest time in the history of the race- (Yea, I know he's a Navy SEAL- we wouldn't expect anything less of him - same goes for Jarheads like DeVoglaer- 44:16) If you really want to prove something & put a notch in your belt- then "Suck It Up" and park your ass in a Solo boat and join the "Texas Water Safari Solo Club" That's what this race is really all about- proving something to yourself! My hat's off to the Safari Soloist... CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Saturday, April 27, 2002 at 17:00:25 (CDT) Well- I've only been involved in this thing for 4 years and I won't be able to do it this year anyway... It has been said that the last "REAL" year of the Safari was 98 because- it started at AquarenaSprings in SpringLk like it's supposed to (I know it's starting there again this year)- it was a low water year- it was 108* or hotter in the river- the "BIG" log jam at AlligatorLk was still there- which meant the novices had to find their way- etc... the race was tougher than it has been for the last few years- harder on the wannabe's & Adventure racers- it lived up to "The Toughest Boat Race In The World" - If you talk to DeVoglaer about the Okie Challenge or DeVoglaer & Shea about crossing FloridaBay this year in the Everglades Challenge they'll tell you that both of those races were HARDER! From what James told me, about crossing FloridaBay- they're lucky to still be with us... (back to the subject at hand)- It's the dam portages & log jams that make the Safari hard. Now I'm a lazy bastard so I won't criticize anyone who wants to make my trip down the river easier- Thank You- but I'm an old "Grunt" and I can do what I have to do when the going gets tough. I vote for TOUGH- otherwise we don't have "The Toughest Boat Race In The World" !! CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Saturday, April 27, 2002 at 15:33:25 (CDT) Trees have been jamming rivers and men have been clearing paths for passage for centuries, since boating began. People who run rivers constantly will usually greatly appreciate anyone's efforts to clear a boating path. Thanks for the good work on the San Marcos. Will Mike Will Michael Peck <will711@hotmail.com> - Saturday, April 27, 2002 at 07:37:20 (CDT) Hey Dornak, do you know what a river "fairy" is....?? Check around dude......and please do us all a favor and shut your piehole........HEY GRUMPY OLD MAN, I RECKON YOU MIGHT AUTTA THINK TWICE ABOUT TURNIN-OUT THEM BREEDIN BEAVERS....I SEEN WHAT YOU LOOK LIKE.......THEY MIGHT COME IN HANDY.... doug <dmackay@grindingsource.com> - Friday, April 26, 2002 at 12:37:34 (CDT) FOR THOSE WHO WORRY ABOUT "SAFARI LORE" AND TREE TRIMMING, TREE CUTTING,ECT. I RAN MY FIRST SAFARE IN 1975, TREE TRIMMING WAS VERY EVIDENT. IMAGINE IF U WOULD, GOING DOWN THE UPPER RIVER BACKWAQRDS WITH TWO SETS OF LONG OARS STICKING OUT. OH YES, TREE TRIMMING WAS VERY MUCH ALIVE BACK THEN. HATS OFF TO THEM THAT TRIM. I'M GETTING TO DAMN OLD TO DRAG THAT BATTLESHIP AROUND. FOR THOSE WHO LIKE FALLEN TREES IN THE RIVER, I'M THINKING ABOUT BUYING ME A BREEDING PAIR OF BEAVERS AND RELEASING THEM BELOW PALMETTO. TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN SHALL ENDURE WITH OR WITHOUT THE TREE TRIMMERS. GOOD LUCK ALL REMEMBER "GRIP IT AND REP IT" RICHARD MILLER{TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN} <richetel@yahoo.com> - Friday, April 26, 2002 at 11:27:56 (CDT) Team "Asleep at the Keel" will be paddling Palmetto to Gonzo Saturday morning. Anyone interested, give us a shout. scott johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Friday, April 26, 2002 at 11:13:39 (CDT) Doug, I guess that was entertaining, not sure. What I do know is that a lot of competitors take the time to help each other in any sport. And this is a sport with no real money involved for the top finishers. And what I have heard, read and seen, the river in its current condition is probably the worse it has been in 10 years in some sections. Every Safari is different common sense. So do you want the same number of logjams, river heights or whatever to make this year's race like the past races. Won't happen. If you paddled the section we have been talking about you know what we are talking about. Also, if someone goes ahead and helps to clear a path that is great help. You should know this. You can go discredit someone else and if you wish pick me for your target, since frankly I don't care. I have never met a Safari vet that was a fairy, I am a Novice, so you can call me one, if that turns you on. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Friday, April 26, 2002 at 09:53:59 (CDT) The correct spelling is FAIRY,...I know cause I checked some of the previous posts and saw how to spell it right..!!THANKS ALOT,...CAPTAIN JACK doug <dmackay@grindingsource.com> - Friday, April 26, 2002 at 08:50:02 (CDT) Lee, LOL......LOL.........LOL..........LOL,...that is the funniest thing I have ever read...........!!!! Good humor man...!! I am neither aggie or Louisiana swamper,.....I JUST CAN`T SPELL FERRIE......but I`m talkin about the Peter Pan and pixie dust......river ferry,ferrie,farry,fari,fery,...hmmmm??........ah S*&T I give up.......... doug <dmackay@grindingsource.com> - Friday, April 26, 2002 at 08:06:18 (CDT) I fear for the safety of anyone who goes about insulting the manhood of boats loaded with 4,5 6, 8 or 9 strong mean paddlers. It's generally the case that people get invited into "long boats" because they have proven themselves to be the best paddlers. Then again I may have misunderstood the whole thing. Other than at tamu and the deeper recesses of Louisiana swamps, "ferrys" are commonly understood to be vessels that convey persons, vehicles and/or cargo. Lee Deviney <txpaddler@aol.com> - Friday, April 26, 2002 at 00:15:46 (CDT) Lesson Learned... This is my last posting on the BB. Somebody get the pictures of the protesters at Palmetto when the Rangers try clearing the trees below the bridge. They probably will have signs saying, "Log Jams have Rights Too"... What I see on the River, stays on the River... Paul Ohlemacher <P_Ohle@Yahoo.com> - Thursday, April 25, 2002 at 18:46:44 (CDT) Maybe the moniker "WORLDS TOUGHEST BOAT RACE" should be revised to something like "SOMEWHAT DIFFICULT FLOATRIP" or maybe even "TEXAS CHAINSAW SAFARI" or better yet, "FOLLOW THE PAINT OR SEADRIFT IT AINT!!".......... Thing is, if your gonna go out and clear junk, try not to be seen doing it......the mystery adds to "safari lore" And if you happen to see the ferries at work,...keep quiet about it......once again, preserving "safari lore" And another thing, why bother clearing now when you know damn well the "long boat fags" will be out in force a week or so before the big show....?? doug <dmackay@grindingsource.com> - Thursday, April 25, 2002 at 16:21:10 (CDT) I think Ken hit the nail on the head. I've been "guilty" of tree trimming and (even worse) tree painting in the past. I look on the jams and logs not as obstacles but, as something that can gain me and my team an advantage. Ultimately the river will win. More trees will fall. I guess if it's a matter of making a tough course easier we should start digging trenches in the lower river so there are more legal shortcuts. Heck, what with the Luling cut, the Prarie Lea cut and the Tin House (dupont RR) cut all becoming the river the race is a little more than a mile shorter than it used to be so why stop there? Jay Daniel <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 23:05:34 (CDT) I don't have an opinion if it is right or wrong to clear naturally occurring debris from the river. These efforts are very temporary and the course of nature will always prevail. What I do know is clearing brush/log jams along the safari course in preparation for the race will be of more benefit to those that are faster on the water. Logjams are the few portions of the race where most competitors are on relatively equal ground. The boats that are at the biggest disadvantage in the junk are the unwieldy multiman boats, typically the race's top finishers. Folks racing Aluminum, Standard etc, clearing the course with the best intentions in the world, are only helping those teams that will most likely beat them to Seadrift. If I were racing in these slower classes I would be more inclined to leave these obstacles alone. The multi-man boats give thanks in advance for you helping them to put more time on you?.. Ken K <pmf@y.c> - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 17:20:07 (CDT) David's email is david.allen@twpd.tx.us. Good news about Harvey. And if you listen to country, a recent song about "The Impossible" says it all. Thanks Linda. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 12:30:11 (CDT) If anyone is interested in helping the park rangers at Palmetto State Park with the large oak at the low water crossing, you can call for Bradley or David Allen Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 12:22:34 (CDT) There are quite a few RV Parks around Victoria. I have heard that the Lazy Longhorn is nice and it is right in the middle of town. I think that there might be some spaces at the city Park where the marathon race ends.
Dad's RV Park
Lazy Longhorn RV Park
Spring Creek RV Park
The RV Park of Victoria, Inc.
COUNTRY COMFORT RV PARK
Does anyone know of an RV campground in the Victoria area ? Do you have contact info ? Thanks in advance. Bob Brooks <kayaker@tamu.edu> - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 09:46:05 (CDT) Thanks for the good news, Linda! Way to go Babbs! Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Wednesday, April 24, 2002 at 06:32:31 (CDT) Just got home from a visit with Harvey and Pat Babb. He's still in the intensive care unit but he is in a back brace and his bed is cranked up at not quite a 45 degree angle. They're hoping to be out of intensive care tomorrow and soon on to a rehab center (location not known yet). After hello his first words to me were "How's the race organization going?" What a great guy!! Keep those prayers going for the Babbs. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 21:53:09 (CDT) Roger, your work is much appreciated, although we missed out on your trimmings. A lot more work is left to Gonzo 183, if you thought Luling 90 to Palmetto was bad. And aside from the occassional tree that wants to eat my boat, the worse thing for me out there is the poison ivy. Almost every tree that has fallen across the river due to the flood a couple of weeks ago that was at the worse possible height (since it undercut the banks just at the tree roots), is loaded with the stuff. I don't mind Laura and I using our imagination to get through these obstacles, but for everyone susceptible to poison ivy, it is nearly impossible to miss the stuff. Out of fifty some odd trees, I got hit 3 times in 45 miles. Might be fun for some, but not me. Go get'em. And Roger if you noticed some fresh cut limbs, John J. and I with a bow saw gave a whack at them, just not at the magnitude that you obviously did. Also the asst. manager, David Wells at Palmetto State park is looking for any volunteers to help him remove the large oak tree that fell below the low water crossing. Monday is the best day for him to assemble his crew at the Park. He gave me his email address and number and it is at the house. More later. Also got lucky and saved a month-old Limosine calf on Sunday and my brother's daughter will raise it for the county fair next year, so grow big little guy. And one small note in a long one. As a Novice, I think a right portage at the Son of Ottine is much safer although somewhat slower. And I must be getting old because I remember these important Ham Radio Operators meet at Citizen's hospital and the military sent me to Brooks Medical Center for flight physicals, so as one vet to another, God Bless you Harvey Babb and family. Good night. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 20:28:54 (CDT) Has anybody else ever read ?The Long Walk? by Steven King? I recommend all safari-ers read this book, and then try ?not? to make comparisons when you are in the 60th hour of paddling without sleep. I think Steven King must have participated in or witnessed the TWSM to get inspiration for this book. Robert Frank <scoop@austin.rr.com> - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 14:44:53 (CDT) I personally applaud your tree cutting efforts. Some might argue that this infringes on the purity of the course?but to them I say ?phhhhhhtttt?. The TWSM is more than tough enough and dangerous enough. An abundance of log jams only increases the chances of someone getting hurt, snake bitten, or worse. I don?t have the equipment to do any clearing myself, but if I?m on the river training and run across anybody doing any clearing, I?ll gladly stop and lend a hand. My brother and I will be running Staples to Palmetto on Saturday, so we?ll really appreciate your efforts this weekend. Robert Frank <scoop@austin.rr.com> - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 11:16:57 (CDT) Sorry Zitter for calling you Ziggy, either the sun got to me or I just could hear over the cutting of trees... Here is something that I thought we could all agree on but should have know better... Me, I give the highest Thanks for Chain Saw Fairies (they like that better than Tree Fairies) for clearing a path in the river now before they start turning into ugly jammers. To those who like porting 20 times in a 14-mile section of river, don't worry there will be lots jammers in the 260 miles during June. The lake before Luling Dam looked like the two trash bars where trying to build, plus the logs below Son of Ottine are still there, and there are number of Junk in the Staples to Luling Dam section (Sand Bars, huge fallen trees, and just plain Junk). "Ohle's Pride" - Paul Ohlemacher <P_Ohle> - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 09:03:55 (CDT) Roger- Go get em- You get the "Tree Fairy" award for this year- last year it went to Robert & Rachael Youens (then the river came up)- the year before that it went to John & Bonnie Jackson- somebody needs to do it - that was probably Paul & Leo Ohlemacher (son/father) that helped you? CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 08:26:27 (CDT) Barb and I are planning on running the Luling to Palmetto section on saturday. We plan on arriving at Palmetto around 11 am and are looking for others who want to do this section and can help with a shuttle. Please email me or call me at 817-512-4395 if interrested. Chris <chris144@airmail.net> - Tuesday, April 23, 2002 at 00:24:12 (CDT) Thanks for the compliments about Jitter Chambers and I (two very old timers) clearing most of the blockages between Lulling 90 and Palmetto. There is still one tree where you have to get out and pull over the partially submerged trunk. Had a lot of help on the worst one from a Father/Son team whose name I forget. Thanks to them as it was a tough, big tree that defied our efforts for a while, and we were working on the foliage end. I had to rest 30 years after my first TWS in 1963. Don't know how long it will take to rest up from the tree trunk and limb cutting. I was pretty exhausted at the end. The way I feel is the TWS is tough enough without all the blankety blank trees down in the river. So I arranged to cut a few out (17 to be exact), right or wrong. I've had two negative comments about cutting the trees blocking the river. How do you feel? Cut passages through the trees that are down or leave them alone? Anyway if you want to cut, skip Lulling 90 to Palmetto as it is pretty good now. Try Palmetto to Gonzales. Roger Zimmerman TWS Class of 1963 Roger Zimmerman <a-zsurplus@tisd.net> - Monday, April 22, 2002 at 21:04:14 (CDT) Yes, thanks a lot for cleaning that section. Many folks will appreciate it. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Monday, April 22, 2002 at 15:53:50 (CDT) Roger and Ziggy, thanks mucho for clearing that section of the river out. We ran it yesterday as well, and it's 100% better. Steve Daniel <sdaniel@zydecodevelopment.com> - Monday, April 22, 2002 at 14:35:46 (CDT) Did they clean that section of the river yesterday? We paddled it the day before and had to portage around trees about 20 times. I think that windstorm a couple of weeks ago must have knocked them over. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Monday, April 22, 2002 at 13:50:04 (CDT) Anybody who has ran river between Luling Dam and Palmetto and got tired of spending more time out of their boat portaging than paddling needs to thank Roger Zimmerman and Ziggy. Looked like a scene from Texas Chain Saw Massacre last Sunday. What they couldn?t run over with that 20-foot battle ship was sawed down and thrown out of the way. Keep this in mind if your boat gets turned side ways in front of these two during the race... "Ohles Pride" Paul Ohlemacher <P_Ohle@Yahoo.com> - Monday, April 22, 2002 at 11:27:29 (CDT) I just talked to Pat Babb. Harvey went in to surgery this morning at 8:30 and came back to intensive care at 3 p.m. She told me that the doctors told her that he came through the surgery much better than they had expected and that it would probably take a year but that he would probably walk again maybe with the aid of a walker or a cane. But we're all still praying for much better than that! So keep Harvey and his family in your prayers. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 15:24:13 (CDT) I'm glad I got to run the river a couple of times before they, or whoever, fixed the dam. That was quite a run. Does anybody know exactly who did the repair, or why. Maybe Lucky wanted his swimmin hole back. scott johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 14:13:44 (CDT) Cleaning out the garage: ZRE Zaveral marathon canoe racing paddle 53" 10 oz. Z-medium model. Barely used. One very small chip on edge has been repaired. $145 (new price $174.95)http://www.zre.com/gearshop/paddlesport/paddles/index.html Descente Flite 6 wing 216-226cm(marathon paddle) length lock adjustable feather and length. All carbon-well used but very stiff (surface scratches but the edges are still in decent shape. $150 (new price $320 http://www.surfskis.com/options.html) Descente Flite 3 Large wing 213-223cm(almost a full-sized sprint wing that I also used for marathon). All carbon-less used, still with surface scratches, good edges. $175 (new price $320 http://www.surfskis.com/options.html) The Descente Wings weigh in at about 33 oz. with the length lock. Mako T-1 Seakayak/touring carbon paddle 220cm. Advertised at 26 oz. which I believe w/o having weighed it. Used once for about 40 minutes. Take apart. No scratches (as new). $175. (new price $210) http://www.kayakstore.com/cgi-bin/SoftCart.exe/scstore/c-TouringPaddles.php3?L+scstore+abeg9635+1018929270 The Mako is a good paddle that I just don't need. More give in the shaft than a sprint paddle. Lee Deviney Austin, Texas 512-306-8058 Lee Deviney <txpaddler@aol.com> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 12:44:40 (CDT) Oops. I guess that paddle took more out of me than I thought. What I MEANT to say was that the dam was repaired Wednesday night and we paddled it on Thursday at noon. Steve Daniel <sdaniel@zydecodevelopment.com> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 12:09:29 (CDT) Harvey Babb recover speedily! Andrew Hyman and I worked safety in 2000 and 2001, and in case anybody doesn't know, there ain't no safety without Harvey. Rocketing through the summer night on a road that's not on any map to get to the river to find a boat that may or may not be there or to track down a missing captain kinda raises your anxiety levels, until you hear Harvey's call sign crackle from the mobile. Then you know you've got the straight poop from the only guy who can give it to you, and everything's gonna be okay. He's always the calm in the midst of the chaos that is Safari. Thanks for everything Harvey. Get back on the air soon. Safety 2, clear. Stephen Scace <scace@io.com> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 12:00:11 (CDT) The Dam was fixed Thursday night late, and when I paddled out there about noon on Friday, it appeared that the water was back to pre-dam break level. Steve Daniel <sdaniel@zydecodevelopment.com> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 11:53:05 (CDT) When was Cummings repaired? It was still out Tuesday afternoon. scott johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Friday, April 19, 2002 at 09:43:22 (CDT) Son of Ottine Rapids - I would portage left, but you will have to be careful not to get sucked into the chute. We ran the chute in our aluminum on Sunday, but it's tricky and if you don't draw correctly, you will run right into some large boulders. Portage left over the big log seems safer if you can avoid going into the chute. It should not be too much of a problem if the bow man jumps out quickly and gets the boat up on the rocks and tree immediately. A bow line wouldn't be a bad idea there, either. If I were solo, I would consider portaging right. Steve Daniel <sdaniel@zydecodevelopment.com> - Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 23:36:36 (CDT) Now that Cummins Dam has been repaired, the river is running very slowly all the way to Luling. Ran City Park to Luling 90 today, and there are many log jams and lots of other junk in the river. Also realized the snakes are out in force, as we counted 20 on our run. Steve Daniel <sdaniel@zydecodevelopment.com> - Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 23:32:56 (CDT) We've got one of our stable for sale (or possibly lease)- the California 4man. This is a very fast Spencer built hull. It's the one that we broke 40 hours in. We've put a lot of money into it over the years but we've got another 4 man. $2,500 My home # is 281-363-4140 Work 713-546-4493 John Mark Harras <JohnMark.Harras@PZLQS.com> - Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 16:26:41 (CDT) Acker made a mistake on his area code it is 903-757-7444 Sorry about that......... Jim Acker <akerjava@aol.com> - Thursday, April 18, 2002 at 09:58:21 (CDT) Regarding the Ottine Rapids, should the portage be river left or river right? I was thinking that portaging left would be difficult due to the chute that runs around the island on the left. Chris <chris144@airmail.net> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 19:14:07 (CDT) Just talked to Pat Babb and learned that Harvey didn't have his surgery yesterday! The doctors put him on the respirator and are treating him for the fluid collecting in his lungs... most common in injuries like his..., but they thought they might be able to do the surgery Friday. Pat sounded strong and was touched and strengthed by all the good wishes and prayers being sent their way by their many friends. Let's keep up the good work. Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway,net> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 15:33:48 (CDT) Pat, I missed your husband at the Victoria Ham Operators monthly meeting last summer at DeTar hospital, while receiving their support to aid in the event of a natural disaster to have electrical power restored to the Victoria area. I hope you saw the email I sent him on "1000 Marbles." It is very comforting in times like these and I hope you got the chance to read it or you might also check with Richard B. I had looked forward to seeing you both at the Finish line. My company, America Electric Power, sends their best wishes for a speedy recovery also. Henry Dornak <hedornak@aep.com> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 12:45:52 (CDT) The boat Acker has for sale is a Spencer C-3 which was not designed by the Mynars. It's a Spencer designed boat that the Mynars paddled to their first victory in 1988. The Mynars did design their 4-man boat that they paddled to a win and new Safari record in 1992. I believe the Mynar's design was just lengthed (or shortened in '02?) to meet their needs each year. On a more serious note, I checked on Harvey Babb at noon today and learned he came through yesterday's surgery and Pat Babb had gone home to get a couple of hours rest. Our prayers are with them. Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 12:43:18 (CDT) Harvey, God Bless you and your family. Your trailer down at the finish has always seemed the "official command post" which provided security, authenticity and some much needed dignity for us river rats. It is always very comforting when I'm out paddling alone in the middle of the night to know that there is a group of you "commo" folks watching over us. Thank you. Know that we love you , wish you peace, and want you and your command post back ASAP! Pat, God bless and keep you, and give Harvey a big, old, careful hug from Norm Thomas <nthomas90252@aol.com> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 12:05:47 (CDT) Vance Jones please call me 512.423.2569. Thanks. Steve Daniel <sdaniel@zydecodevelopment.com> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 11:37:48 (CDT) 3 man safari boat for sale . 6 time safari finisher. Spray deck included. Can be seen at Spencers starting April 20th. The Mynar design boat has had its scratches AND dings but is ready to complete its 7th trip to the wall. you can call Acker at 907-757-7444 or e-mail as shown.$1,000 is the price. Jim Acker <Akerjava@aol.com> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 10:00:55 (CDT) I will be honest. I do not know Harvey Babb. However, being the person I am I feel for anyone injured and their family. From what I've read Harvey Babb is a great supporter and volunteer of the Safari which makes me feel more for him and his family. Anyone that supports and volunteers at the Safari has a heart of GOLD. I know that the Big Guy up stairs is looking down and watching over us all. I hope and pray that Harvey pulls through to a full recovery. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 09:39:59 (CDT) Harvey our prayers are with you and your family. We pray for your speedy recovery and we give thanks for all of your support. God Bless you, Ken & Family ken Thigpen & Family <ken@waveset.com> - Wednesday, April 17, 2002 at 08:38:16 (CDT) Harvey Babb, good friend of the Texas Water Safari, fell from the roof of his home in Victoria, Texas on Saturday, April 13. He was Star-flighted to San Antonio where he remains in the critical care unit of Brook Army Medical Trauma Center. He suffered a broken back, shoulders, sternum and ribs. Harvey is a very important member of the volunteer force for the Safari every year. He and his wife Pat spend their vacation every year in that big motor home at the Seadrift pavillion from Saturday through Wednesday, the whole 100 hours. It's his hard work, along with every other Ham Radio Operator along the entire racecourse that keeps all the most current information available for the officials about the whereabouts of every boat in the race. We will post updates on his condition as we get them. We all pray for a speedy and complete recovery for Harvey and strength for Pat and their family. We don't know if he'll be able to get email but postings to this website could be shared with him by Pat. Let's all show the Babbs how much we care! Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 21:15:33 (CDT) I regard Son of Ottine in its current state to be un-runnable. Last Saturday the right hand entrance was blocked by a newly felled tree and two trees blocked the bottom left. Be ready for a portage left, I sure didn't see a reliable way around it. Palmetto low water is no piece of cake either. John Mark <JohnMark.Harras@PZLQS.com> - Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 15:44:53 (CDT) Any suggestion for shuttles for training runs from San Marcos? I?m in Austin, and need to get out and train on the actual course some more, but am finding it more and more difficult to get my wife to drive down with me every weekend. Right now, I drive to San Marcos and get in the water, leaving my vehicle there. My wife picks me and my kayak up later that day or whenever I?m finished. She then drives me back to San Marcos to pick up my car, and we both drive home. She?s a wonderful supportive wife, but she?s getting tired of the weekly drives to and from San Marcos and beyond. For short trips from San Marcos are there any established shuttle services that will run you back to San Marcos (from Staples, Luling, Plametto, or Gonzalez)? Thanks, Robert Robert Frank <scoop@austin.rr.com> - Tuesday, April 16, 2002 at 11:21:03 (CDT) For sale: Quickblade Tiger Claw Wing - rarely used, reinforced tips. Upcoming Team Trials participants heads up! $250 regularly $300 A brand new, never been used Length-Lock? 2 piece Epic Wayfarer (217cm - 227cm) that I desperately need to part with. Great paddle and top of the line. It has been removed from it paddle sleeve twice and never touched the water. $395 regularly $419 No shipping or tax on either one! 512-357-6751 quickblade14@hotmail.com Erin Magee <quickblade14@hotmail.com> - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 18:02:16 (CDT) Nope- doesn't have to be your Safari TeamCapt at the Marathon- just a warm blooded body with beer in a cooler :) You do have to have the same team members in the boat that are going to run the Safari with you - otherwize yuz gets to start in the back with the slow-pokes- like the Cowboys :) (did ya read the JMH- PalmettoHotLine) CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 17:25:16 (CDT) Does anyone know if it is necessary to have the same team captain for the River Marathon as you are going to have for the Safari, in order to earn a better starting position? Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 15:30:01 (CDT) The parking lot at Victoria CP boat ramp did flood and the river is now receding, but the gate down to the water is locked. If you don't mind packing your canoe, you should be able to park on the hill. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Friday, April 12, 2002 at 14:55:24 (CDT) What kind of foot pumps are people using in their boats, and where can I locate them? Jeff Jouett <jj@visualcnc.com> - Thursday, April 11, 2002 at 17:46:09 (CDT) Here is another site to add to your favorites about the safari that comes from a different prespective. It also includes a link to an article that was written about the safari. http://2coolfishing.com/cgi-bin/texas/messageboard.cgi?read=76791#76791 I have to say as a first time racer in the Dupont to Seadrift run I was crazy enough to think that the bay was fun for about the first 15 minutes. I quickly grew to loath the wind and waves though but I admit that I talk about that part the most. Good luck to all at the prelims. Karim Aziz <karim.aziz@tpwd.state.tx.us> - Thursday, April 11, 2002 at 08:55:48 (CDT) Hey guys, Ive heard about this race for years now. I remember hearing about it in high school from some of my dad's coworkers. I am highly interested in racing, but am unable to find 3 others either foolish enough, or tough, or hell, even brave, I guess it all depends on how you look at it. Anyone who needs a third party drop me a line. I am a tough, strongwilled, hard working 21 year old who has grown up in the outdoors and feel that I will have no problems handling the rigors as well as any other. My email is texlover@hotmail.com Give me a chance guys Mark Miller <texlover@hotmail.com> - Thursday, April 11, 2002 at 04:03:30 (CDT) Well, I promised a site back up by the end of the week, and I'm a little ahead of schedule. For entry forms, Official rules, calendar, etc... you will still need to see the Official TWS Website located at: http://www.tisd.net/~txws/ (Or, simply click on the "Official TWS Site" button on the top-left.) However, everything else is BACK !
I had hoped to turn this site into a TWS reference site. Not only containing stories and pictures, but also Tips and Tutorials to help both the novice and experienced racer. I would like to make a call for helpful articles on any aspect of marathon canoe racing, from boat outfitting, to training and safety... anything which might help get a novice team safely down that river. - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 19:29:10 (CDT) HEY DAWGS A BLIND MAN FOUND THE SITE. SO ANYONE SHOULD BE ABLE TO FOND IT. HATS OFF TO EVERTONE WHO RAN THE SWINGING BRIDGE TO SEA DRIFT RACE THUIS WEEKEND. WE DECIDED THAT WE COULDN'T AFFORD IT. BESIDES WE DIDN'T LIKE EACH OTHER ENOUGH TO RACE TOGETHER. SOU8NDS LIKE THE BAY WAS ROUGH. GOOD LUCK TO ALL IN THE UPCOMING TWS. TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN <RICHETEL@YAHOO.CIM> - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 18:52:03 (CDT) For anyone using the Victoria CP boat ramp, it is presently under water, but the parking lot is open and it appears that the river has crested. RG, the secret is out of the bag, my original copy of "The Great Logs of Texas (2nd ed.)", came in handy today as I identified a few different varieties. Some were actually fast. And Andrew, fun race and bumping paddles with Holly. Tom and Paula Goynes,Goynes@centurytel.net, can make you any skirt you would like (also recommend the sling for those tired eyes you might have during Safari :)). Catch you at the Prelim.. Team Zoom Zoom Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Wednesday, April 10, 2002 at 12:38:48 (CDT) I prottest! the Palmetto man funned me but it ain't funny at all. I graduate from Texas A&M with adegree in animal husband. That makes me college man and an inteligent brain. I crossed the bay in the Dupont/Seadrift race without a spray skirt, we made it fine, however we had to watch the chop on the water, I would not want to risk not being able to finish the Safari due to a rough bay. Where can I get a quality spray skirt for our canoe? Andrew Nelson <andrew.n@juno.com> - Tuesday, April 09, 2002 at 13:50:24 (CDT) The 2002 Calendar of Events on the official home page of the TWS says that the check-in and start is at the "San Marcos Aquarena Center". Does that mean the race is starting again at Aquarena Springs instead of at City Park? I hope so. Mark Mark Elvig <elvig@houston.rr.com> - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 22:17:36 (CDT) SOLO BOAT for rent - Three time finisher solo kayak for rent.(4th place solo unlimited in 1997, 2000, 8th place solo unlimited in 2001) Includes boat(17'1" 58 lbs), double blade paddle, water jugs, light system, Course description booklet, Team Captain manual with maps, racer equipment list, Team Captain equipment list. Will rent from January 1, 2002 till right after 2002 race. $ 300.00 email for further details or call 972-293-6415. Will be a prelim can bring to race. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 17:08:11 (CDT) Hey everyone from the Dupont Race. Team Determination here. Just wanted to kick myself during the race. Was worried about my team mate(which I should be her being 11 y/o) I stopped us once to get rain gear on getting passed by four boats. Then at Tivoli after making her eat and getting her waterproof and warm. We left for the bay, 20 minutes down the river I realived I had left my lifejacket under the bridge. 20 minutes back up river getting passed by 4 more boats. Got the life jacket then back to the bay (but at least we past two of those boat on the bay. Think there should be an award for the most stupid mistakes? But then again my Team Captian say I had the right priorities, daughter first ( I just got the second and third backward switched - personal safety with the race) Well till May everyone. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 17:03:22 (CDT) Will Mike, that would be Prairie Lea #1 1/2 that you're referring too. Yes, it is still there. I was referring to the county bridges. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 12:52:39 (CDT) :regarding bridges at Prairie Lea, the small private bridge is still there, the part in the middle with clearance being clogged with drift logs.........willmike Will Michael Peck <Willpeck711@hotmail.com> - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 11:44:03 (CDT) Mark and everyone who doesn't already know, the Prairie Lea bridges washed out in the November '01 flood. Plans are to rebuild them but we are told it will take two years. Access to Prairie Lea #1 is still pretty close to the bridge, however there is a sticky landowner problem at Prairie Lea #2 and it's quite a hike even if you could climb the gate they have put up. The landowner is trying to keep the bridge from being rebuilt and closing the road totally with no public accress allowed. We are trying to work with the Caldwell County Commissioner who has told us that we can have a key to the gate at Prairie Lea #2 for the Safari if they do not get it opened some other way for us. We have made our case that it's a necessary water stop for the race and has been for the last 39 years and it's also possible that someone may need to pull out there for some unforeseen reason. It may be helpful if the county knew how we all felt about access to the river on Caldwell County Road 116 (Prairie Lea #2) being taken from us. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 10:49:11 (CDT) Thanks for putting this billboard back up Bob, it is quite valuable for information and good humor. I enjoyed paddling alongside you during the race Saturday, more so in Guadalupe bay than in San Antonio bay, where you passed me. Oh for a lightweight boat! Next time I'm only gonna take twenty pounds of gar repellant, I only saw a few over seven feet long. They sure are jumpy critters, eh? willmike Will Michael Peck <willpeck711@hotmail.com> - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 10:37:21 (CDT) Thanks for hearing us and putting up the Billboard again, O Great Webmaster Guru! BTW, Spencer Canoes in Martindale (512 357-6113) still has a few ALUMACRAFT, 5-rib, fully rigged (or not), ULTRALIGHT VOYAGEURS for sale and several more to rent. Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 09:57:30 (CDT) Does anyone in the San Antonio/Austin area need a team captain for the Safari this year? I did the race once in 1997, and I'd like to do it this year, but do not have time to train. I can commit the time necessary to be a team captain however, and am also interested in sponsorship. I can be reached at this email address, or 210-872-9949. Dirk Davidek http://www.adventureclubsa.com Dirk Davidek <AdventureClubSA@hotmail.com> - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 00:43:41 (CDT) The Prairie Lea bridges washed out in the big flood of Nov 15, 2001. They are county roads so it will probably be a while before they are fixed. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Monday, April 08, 2002 at 00:17:32 (CDT) I went by Prairie Lea No. 1 and No. 2 today and discovered the bridges are washed out. When did that happen? I assume they will still be out in June. I have not been reading this board so this may have already been announced. Thanks for any information. Mark Mark Elvig <elvig@houston.rr.com> - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 22:48:14 (CDT) The Safari Gods have smiled down upon us and returned our CB channel - uh...(Billboard) - Thank you Safari Gods.... CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Sunday, April 07, 2002 at 22:29:51 (CDT) After getting pummeled in the Dupont to Seadrift Race this weekend, I returned home to find a couple dozen requests for the Safari Billboard to be returned to service. Well, it is back ! Still trying to decide what will become of the rest of the now UNOFFICIAL TWS site. It will return, but in what form ??? One way or the other, I should have something up by the end of the week. I'll post to the Billboard as soon as my New and Improved site is up and running.
Thanks to everyone who has written and expressed their feelings. It is nice to know that the site was appriciated by so many people. Thanks again, Phil. Many others also value your advice and I will pass along. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 13:22:40 (CST) Howdy I've had several requests for the seminar hand out. It can be found at http://home.austin.rr.com/philbowden look under documents. The hand out is my opinion and not endorsed by the safari corporation Phil Bowden <pbowden@austin.rr.com> - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 12:45:02 (CST) When I first read the Gar Repellant stuff, I couldn't believe that anyone would actually try and peddle the junk. Then I started to wonder if they gave ratings like SPF factors as to the size of gar it works on and the range in which it keeps them from your body/boat, and how long before you have to re-apply. And is there special consideration for airborne gar over water-based torpedoes. Like Phil said at the Seminar, they don't actually attack you, but then again tell that to my friend Steve who was right beside me and received a concussion from a 6-footer and the lanterns that I have had to replace from being skewered, not too mention or trivialize the pure adrenline rush from the "surprise attack" missile variety. Have fun and a sense of humor will get you a long ways down the river. And after reading some of the comments on this billboard, it helps here also. There is also something to be said about rather being lucky than good. Be good. Team Zoom Zoom Henry < - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 12:42:52 (CST) Have been in search of Phil Bowden's Seminar handout. If someone has a copy, could they give me an assist. Several others are also interested. Could pickup at the Swingin' Bridge or Seadrift on Saturday. Thanks. Henry < - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 11:28:52 (CST) accuweather forcast for Saturday afternoon at Seadrift is winds SSE at 16, gusting to 28.....Will Will Michael Peck <Willpeck711@hotmail.com> - Friday, April 05, 2002 at 10:43:50 (CST) You were referring to "those who take more than 36 hours" to FINISH the race, weren't you? Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 22:47:22 (CST) ....and most mere mortals take more than 36 hours...... although four Mynars could probably paddle a rubber ducky dragging a sea anchor and do it. Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 22:38:38 (CST) To add my own two cents.... I would do the night run on the section that you plan on running the first night, maybe around Palmetto. And make sure you are familiar with any obstacles in this area, such as log jambs and the Palmetto bridge. The first night is probably the hardest night (for those that take more than 36 hours....). Kevin <Trainwreck20@hotmail.com> - Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 15:21:07 (CST) I guess I don't count as a top paddler, but most of those guys can't write anyway... We usually go 30-45 miles a practie however long that takes. If we go fast enough we can get in a whole round of golf afterwards! If you are a novice I suggest you get the magic number of at least 100 hours on-water training -heavily emphasising the San Marcos, with at least one bay run, and remember to do interval training to get your speed up. Throw in a little night practice on an easy section that you already know, and you are practically at the seawall! John Mark Harras <JohnMark.Harras@PZLQS.com> - Thursday, April 04, 2002 at 14:22:06 (CST) I stand corrected. The combination on the lock at the Dupont gate is "2000". It will still be changed to "2002" after this weekend. Sorry for any inconvenience. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 17:22:49 (CST) I am trying to see how long of training runs people do prior to the TWS. Do the top racers do 12, 24 of 30 hour practice runs? Any feed back would be appreciated! Michael F <felchamj@tisd.net> - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 11:59:13 (CST) Weather forcasts by coastal zone http://205.156.54.206/om/marine/zone/gulf/gulfmz.htm Current conditions in Seadrift http://dnr.cbi.tamucc.edu/overview/031 scott johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 11:13:31 (CST) Need to go back to work, but have the Safari fever. The Mexican eagle is not native to these parts like whitewings, but due to loss of habitat and branching out, we now see them. Mexican eagles easily outnumber the balds. Wildlife provides a nice distraction on the river, when it all starts looking the same. See you on the river. Team Zoom Zoom - Seadrift or Bust. Henry - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 10:01:28 (CST) Another side note on the combo, Robert Gonzales had the other lock, which I am sure Linda knows. I believe the locks were removed temp for security reasons after talking to Robert. He may have the "2001". Henry < - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 09:28:44 (CST) If the combination to Dupont hasn't been changed last week, the number was "2000". Henry <Hedornak@aep.com> - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 09:21:10 (CST) Thanks to Bob Brooks for the great website and recent pics of the river. Thanks to all the TWS vets who have been so helpful and forthcoming with advice and information over the last year. On my last two runs down the SM I spotted Mexican eagles, which slightly resemble bald eagles, below Prairie Lea. Just a couple of more questions: Having recently purchased a sale-priced 55 gal barrel of used gar repellent, should I use my twenty-pound electric bilge pump to constantly pump it into the water surrounding my boat, or just keep smearing and flinging it around? If it doesn't work, will my heirs get a refund? Will Mike Will Michael Peck <Willpeck711@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, April 03, 2002 at 08:31:39 (CST) Registration for the Dupont Swingin' Bridge to Seadrift Canoe Race will be at the Dupont boat ramp from 7:45 a.m. to 8:45 a.m. Saturday, April 6. If you've pre-registered you'll need to check in at this time and sign insurance waivers (these must be witnessed and so were not available with any registration information). If you're running shuttles early and need access to Dupont Park, the Texas Water Safari lock is on the gate and the combination is "2001". This combination will change to "2002" after this weekend. There will be drinks but no meal provided at the finish line. For a complete list of entrants go to www.texaswatersafari.org. See you at the race. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Tuesday, April 02, 2002 at 17:30:50 (CST) I need to find a team captain for Julie and Colin for this weekend's race so I can steal theirs and race tandem. I am prepared to buy dinner at Elaina's (sic) after the race for the lucky captain to be! Shouldn't be much in the way of work as J&C are pretty self-sufficient. Just contact me and I'll be most grateful! John Mark Harras <JohnMark.Harras@PZLQS.com> - Tuesday, April 02, 2002 at 09:21:01 (CST) And the debate rages on, electric vs human-powered bilge pumps. Thank God I chose electric. It's was the only choice when standing in chest deep water holding up our almost full "bathtub" from going under a fallen tree, at night, with fast moving water. Even then, it took 15 minutes and my partner bailing. Oh, there was another choice. After we watch our boat go under, hit bottom and fill up with sand... we then shoot a flare. But I prefer a good ending. To each his own. Two months after I finished the TWS last year I felt its draw again. The elements, the challenge, pushing your wits and perserverance. Call it what you may. It is the Call of the Wild. I will miss the call for 2002 due to injury and its corrective surgery. TWS 2003 awaits. But I want to give my best regards and wishes to all who will take the challenge this year. I'll be there Saturday Morning, with a tear and a smile, cheering you on. Take care and enjoy. Chris Hutchings Chris Hutchings <AquaPhoenix43@aol.com> - Monday, April 01, 2002 at 21:02:12 (CST) Ran Cummings on Sunday in my Alumicraft. Very interesting. Good news is that my floatation appears to be adequate. scott johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Monday, April 01, 2002 at 08:13:16 (CST) Regarding footrests, there are probably as many opinions about them as there are about bilge pumps. IMHO, the footrest should be approximately where you would place your foot on a ladder; think about where you would want your foot if you were using it to propel the canoe forward. For me that puts it somewhere in the middle of the foot (if I don't have rudder pedals). If I've got pedals, then I want the bar lower so that I can pivot my foot on the bar to move the pedal forward. If you're using pedals you'll get some support from the pedal itself, so it'll feel like the support is higher than the position of the crossbar. Hope this helps, and by the way, electric bilge pumps are of the devil. Footpumps and self bailers are the correct tools for water removal. Tom Goynes <goynes@centurytel.net> - Sunday, March 31, 2002 at 08:44:14 (CST) is there a dinner at the finish that comes with the swinging bridge-sea drift race like the safari? i'm just trying to determine if we need to bring a grill for my team captain or not. david <david_kloesel@hotmail.com> - Sunday, March 31, 2002 at 07:12:15 (CST) Serious question here for the experts used to an unstable canoe. What part of the foot should contact the foot-rest for the front paddler. Should it be the the upper, or ball, of the foot or the middle of the foot even with the ankle? I'm having a hard time getting used to a new canoe. My previous boat, I supported with the upper part of my feet but my new boat has a low support 3 or 4 inches above the floor. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Sunday, March 31, 2002 at 01:52:57 (CST) NRS sells minicell foam. It is expensive. http://www.nrscatalog.com/product.asp?pfid=2076 Troy Freeman <yorten@yahoo.com> - Saturday, March 30, 2002 at 17:58:52 (CST) Hey Scott, That is a heck of a deal on an awesome pump. Where do I get mine and do they have a bikin clad model demo it? Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Saturday, March 30, 2002 at 09:22:49 (CST) Help! Help! I need a source for closed cell pvc foam (canoe outfitting, water bottles storage etc.) I also need a source for fabric for spray skirts. Unfortunately I cannot go to San Marcos so I need a source that is willing to ship. Thanks Jonathan Redfern Jonathan Redfern <buckeyenatives@earthlink.net> - Saturday, March 30, 2002 at 09:21:41 (CST) Always the one to try and set myself apart from the crowd, I'll be using a 30 gallon wet / dry vac with a Honda gasoline generator. The very nice sales person assured me that we would stay clean and dry at the same time. Tidy is good. scott johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Friday, March 29, 2002 at 14:51:48 (CST) Why do mommy and daddy keep fighting about the bilge pump? Chris Hosek <chosek@yahoo.com> Austin, Tx USA - Friday, March 29, 2002 at 14:43:59 (CST) BILGE! WE DONT NEED NO STINKING BILGE! FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR <JackMonnaco@email.com> - Friday, March 29, 2002 at 13:26:45 (CST) re: pumps. Different boats, different approaches ... Many sea kayakers use foot pumps (electric or manual). When you capsize in rough open water you would rather use you hands for a paddle than a handpump. I believe that in river runnning the sea kayak cover with a sprayskirt is less likely to take water than an open boat unless it capsizes. And in a such case the handpump which is quite efficient may be a good solution to quickly empty a small kayak cockpit. Marek <uliasz@frii.com> - Friday, March 29, 2002 at 12:30:42 (CST) HEY THOMAS YOUR IN S.A. BAY WITH A 15 TO 20 MPH WIND IN YOUR FACE. YOU PADDLED A HALF MILE AND THEN HAD TO DO YOUR HAND JOB ON YOUR PUNMP. NOW YOU JUST GOT BLOWN BQCK A QUATER MILE WHILE U WERE HAND BAILING. ITS GOING TO TAKE U A LONG TIME TO FINISH. I WOULD MUCH RATHER HIT THE FOOTSWITCH ON OUR BILGE PUMP AND WATCH THE WATER BLOW OUT WHILE I'M PRESSING ON. HAND BAILERS AND FOOTPUMPS HAVE THIER PLACE, BUT MY MONEY I IS ON THE ELECTRIC PUMP. GOOD LUCK TO ALL IN THIS YRS. TWS. richard <richetel@yahoo.com> - Friday, March 29, 2002 at 11:28:03 (CST) and who's selling Gar Repellant this year? swamp rat <captjack@ev1.net> - Friday, March 29, 2002 at 07:38:54 (CST) My .02cents worth - I have an open cockpit boat that gets water in it. I wish I had a bilge pump for parts of the SanMarcos and crossing the bay in white caps (when I'm too lazy to put on my spray cover)- but like Mendenhall, I have a hand pump that works fine, a 2-litre soda bottle with the top cut off for a tough bailing cup and a big ole sponge. The problem with the hand pump, bailing cup & sponge are you're not paddling when you use them! As I remember the purpose of this race - it's to be paddling NON-STOP till you get to the finish! I dream of a less than 60hr finish. I think a 4# bilge pump set-up might be worth 30 minutes or more. Just another putt-putt solo dude... CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 22:23:51 (CST) Thanks for the pictures. We had a fun time with little otine. As for the bilge pump, controversy I see it as a tie so far. But whatever you do at least have a sponge. roland guerrero <guerrero@thrifty.net> - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 22:16:46 (CST) I've been putting in quite a few miles between San Marcos and Palmetto. For those who haven't done this stretch, a few things have changed. See the pictures (I appoligize for the poor quality) on the link below: http://ops.tamu.edu/x075bb/safari/SafariPics/ Particularly look at Son of Ottine and the two Prarie Lea crossings. Bob Brooks <kayaker@tamu.edu> - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 20:35:37 (CST) We all have our opinions. But I can tell you for a Soloist, to me an electrical bulge pump is not worth the weight and the batteries needed for it. A Plastic hand water pump is lighter than an electric, requires no batteries and in six "up & downs" will put out 1 gallon of water. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Thursday, March 28, 2002 at 16:59:25 (CST) THANK U GINGER A BILGE PUMP IS WORTH ITS WEIGHT IN GOLD. I SWORE TO MYSELF I WOULD NOT DO THIS ANYMORE. BUT TOM AND THOMAS U ARE BOTH GIVING BAD ADVICE. I HAVE FINISHED THE SAFARI IN BOTH HIGH AND LOW PROFILE BOATS, WITH GOOD SPRAY COVERS, AND I WILL ALWAYS , ALWAYS , HAVE A BILGE PUMP MAYBE TWO ON BOARD. A BILGE PUMP AND BATTERIES, 4LBS, 1 GALLON OF WATER 8 LBS {DUH}. S.A. BAY CAN BE AS GENTLE AS A LAMB, OR AS MEAN AS A HUNGRY WOLF WAITING TO EAT U UP. HEY GANG TRAIN HARDER AND QUIT WORRYING ABOUT OZS. JUST SOME WORDS OF ADVICE TAKE IT OR LEAVE IT I WILL HAVE A BILGE PUMP ONBOARD. GRIP IT AND RIP IT {AS LONG AS U CAN} RICHARD MILLER <richetel@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, March 27, 2002 at 16:44:18 (CST) There are times when a small electric pump is priceless: a choppy bay, taking on water through Cottonseed or Nursery rapids, turning over in the middle of the night with no bank to pull your boat onto to dump it... They can be purchased at any marine supply store. I got my Rule pump at Boater'w World. I think they are well worth the cost and weight. Ginger Turner <gingerct@juno.com> - Wednesday, March 27, 2002 at 15:23:21 (CST) Chris, I agree with Thomas. I bought a light one at academy last year for about $10. We thougt we might need it on the bay, but we didn't use it and we are not going to take it this year. It's very light weight, but every ounce counts. We would have used the same batteries that powered our lights(12 volts). You can also get foot powered pumps to remove water. TG or Spencer's in Martindale can probably tell you where to find these. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Wednesday, March 27, 2002 at 00:07:58 (CST) Hey Chris forget about a battery operated water pump. It will use batteries up fast compared to the water it will pump out and be added weight. The two best ways the old fashsion beller(bucket) or a hand pump. Thomas <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Tuesday, March 26, 2002 at 21:58:57 (CST) I am looking for a small battery operated water pump. Can anyone direct me to a store where I can purchase one? Chris <Chosek@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, March 26, 2002 at 14:51:29 (CST) And for those into watching for bald eagles along the TWS course, I saw one today at Dupont Park. Still looking for the Great Kiskadee. Henry <hedornak> - Tuesday, March 26, 2002 at 14:16:44 (CST) I just got some really cool map making software for my gps and was wondering if anybody had the lat/lon for dupont. I also ran cummings dam over the weekend and agree 100% with Tom Goynes posting. We ran it twice in an alumacraft, stayed in the canoe once but got really wet both runs. It still beat the long portage around the side Rob Leef <Robdog1123@aol.com> - Monday, March 25, 2002 at 18:38:21 (CST) Bob, it is great to see the designer of this billboard on the river. That was a nasty cut you received on your chin at Prairie Lea 1.5. Better for Mary to look okay anyway. Look forward to the pictures you took down to Palmetto. Henry <Hedornak@aep.com> - Monday, March 25, 2002 at 17:13:56 (CST) Until the link and the ad is created on the TWS site, you can find information about John Bugge's TWS boat rentals and novice specials on my website at: http://home.attbi.com/~jsbrown15/buggeboats.html I will host it there until the same page is put up on the TWS site. Please direct all inquiries regarding the boats to John bugge directly, at bugge@myriad.net. JB Jerry Brown <jsbrown15@attbi.com> - Monday, March 25, 2002 at 16:27:15 (CST) FOR SALE: 18'6 ft. Carbon Fiber USCA c-2 (black shell, tan interior) Wenonah V1A Olympic Class racing canoe 32 lbs. Total Weight Geared for Safari, ran it last year With custom water resistant snap/velcro cover skirt. Very Very Fast 2 person boat... Must sell.. Asking $2000.00 (Custom Built last year @ $2789.00) Contact - Shane Bordeau 512.751.6759 www.Caged-Tigers.com Caged Tigers Adventure Racing Shane Bordeau <shane.bordeau@netqos.com> - Monday, March 25, 2002 at 09:34:06 (CST) We'll be going down to Seadrift on 04-05-02 for the Swinging Bridge. I decided to park my travel trailer at the finish so I made some calls to the area parks there in Seadrift. I was very fortunate to get in touch with Georgie Dade at the Beacon 7 RV park. She and her boyfriend love the TWS and made me a deal that I couldn't pass up. All she asked is that I pass along to everyone how much they enjoy Safari folk and welcome them anytime. I hope you all don't mind me doing just that. If you need a place to park (they have tent sites too)you can reach them at (361) 785-2717. scott scott johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Monday, March 25, 2002 at 08:44:53 (CST) great website woodrow courtney <hellbentcelt@aol.com> canton, tx van zandt - Sunday, March 24, 2002 at 14:30:18 (CST) Rockport Canoe & Kayak-O-Rama - Saturday - April 27th - Kayak & Canoe Demonstrations - Canoe & Kayak Race - 9am @ Rockport Beach Park - Beachfront Pavilion - Hosted by: Rockport Lions Club, City of Rockport, & Texas Parks & Wildlife - Registration begins at 8am - 3 classes - 3 course lengths - Cash Prizes - Free kayak rentals for beginners - refreshments & lunch available - area kayak maps & T-shirts for sale - short lap course for fun & friendly competition - For applications, maps & info - contact: Beverly Garis - 361-729-2388 - bgaris@swbell.net - For race rules & courses - contact: Ed Hegen - 361-729-2328 - ed.hegen@tpwd.stste.tx.us CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Thursday, March 21, 2002 at 16:49:07 (CST) Hey, Ho! Big congrats for whoever pulled off that rain dance. More! More! goodpaddle <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, March 19, 2002 at 22:04:44 (CST) Does anyone have a beat up C-1 for sale or trade? Vance Jones <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, March 19, 2002 at 17:23:38 (CST) NOT JUST ANOTHER JERRYRIGGED LIGHTING SYSTEM. I highly recommend the TurboCat Lighting System. www.turbocatusa.com The system we used was the S10 and S05 (not listed but it is a 5 watt spot) with the handlebar quick clamps which worked excellent on our Wenonah bow handle. I needed to raise the lamps slightly to clear the bow, but with one beam on each side we were able to carry the canoe with the lights connected and aimed. The mixed gas 5 watt was used as our normal running light and the 10 watt was used as needed. But with both lights on....forget aboutit, you can SEE! on top and under the water. The battery packs suggested by Tom and Elayne at TurboCat consisted of a prewired twin "D"cell Lithium pak with quick connect leads (30bucks ea.) They worked excellent. About 1.5 nights per pak. I bought three just in case. With the "endurance racer support program" discount they have, It was a darn good deal too. This system made for the best safari setup I've seen yet. (not including rainmakers PRO system). Submersible and super lightweight machined from billet aluminum; the lamp housings look like something from NASA. The one modification to the factory delivered system I made was; longer cables running along each side of the gunwales and down underneath the bow seat, into a small pelican box with two external toggle switches with waterproof boots on 'em. This worked well and provided for quick and easy access switching. The whole system stayed stowed away untill the first dusk when we just unrolled the wires from around the box and clamped them on in a minute... D. Jans <dj@ocvatu> - Monday, March 18, 2002 at 15:55:15 (CST) Just wanted to pass along a word of thanks to everyone that spent their day trying to help us newbies at the Saturday seminar. Planning over the past year, paddling with veterans, numerous trial and errors and now the generous outpouring of advise and assistance from the paddling community have made me feel as ready as I could possibly be. It doesn't take a newcomer long to see that river folks are a breed apart from other atletes. In the past, I have entered into other athletic arenas, only to be shunned until those proverbial dues are paid. Estimates are that the numbers will continue to grow in the TWS. I agree and believe that the great attitude of the folks involved are the primary reason. Linda, Pat, Phil, Alan and all of the rest of you that I didn't name, thanks a bunch. I really appreciate it. Keep up the good work. scott johnson scott johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Monday, March 18, 2002 at 08:40:23 (CST) Accidental tropical bird at cottonseed! I IDd a Great Kiskadee (Pitangus sulphuratus) in the calm waters above cottonseed on the San Marcos 3/16/02. If anyone else sees this bird John Dunn <sidereal@mail.utexas.edu> - Sunday, March 17, 2002 at 19:29:01 (CST) make with the rain dances! water level seems to be holding, surprising well, dropping slowly. but, without rain, when the temp warms up...!!!! goodpaddle <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Sunday, March 17, 2002 at 11:01:59 (CST) Robert, on behalf of team GUNS-N-HOSES, we want you to know that your family is in our thoughts and prayers. Your mothers kind smile will be missed each and every year. Sincerely, Brothers Randy and Terry Pogue T.Pogue <terrypogue@hotmail.com> - Friday, March 15, 2002 at 23:06:07 (CST) This is just a reminder about the Texas Water Safari (free) Seminar tomorrow, March 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The seminar will be held in San Marcos City Park Recreational Hall. The city has told us that the gate is being opened up for events in the park and will be open tomorrow. I drove by the park today and it was indeed open. See ya'll there! Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Friday, March 15, 2002 at 13:01:19 (CST) P.S. For those who only need one night (or almost two if using a 12 watt)of lights there is the alternative of a 16.5 Amp Hour Battery Pack Price. The price on these packs is $180. Jay Daniel Rainmaker Canoes 281-787-2271 jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net Jay Daniel Rainmaker Canoes <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 17:04:58 (CST) For those who will be wanting Lithium batteries now is the time to let us know if you want batteries if you have not already done so. These battery packs have 33 Amp Hours. They will be $340 + Tax. For those wanting to use Alkaline Batteries we have a holder for D cells in a waterproof box for $100. If you supply your own box they are $50. (Alkaline Batteries not included) Jay Daniel Rainmaker Canoes 281-787-2271 jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net Jay Daniel Rainmaker Canoes <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 15:15:57 (CST) After posting my message about Cumming's Dam yesterday, I decided it was time to check it out again. It had been several months since I last looked at it (we folks who live by the river sometimes don't take the time to get on it enough). Anyway, Sandy and I ran it in a 16 foot ABS canoe (sometimes it feels pretty good to be in a boat that is less than 20 feet long and has deep sides). I would say that it is more than a three foot drop - felt like five, but may be closer to four. It's a fast trip, and you will definately take on water (perhaps more than when you run Rio Vista). I would suggest checking the slot first to make sure that no log has floated into it (that could ruin your day). Also, keep in mind that if the river comes up the drop will increase and it could get too hairy to run again. The only thing that is producing the drop now is the fact that there is only so much water that can make it through that small a slot. My guess is that a USCA Cruiser would go swimming unless it is covered. I have a feeling that most of the members of an 8 man team would do some time in the water as well. I did talk to a lady who turned over while running the slot in a little solo whitewater canoe and she said the swim wasn't bad. In fact they had their boy scouts playing in the eddy - they would ride the current up to the dam and then get swept downstream to do it again (not something I would have recommended, but good information to know). Back in the late sixites when the dam was open as it is now, one Safari racer lost his pants while doing the spin cycle in the eddy below the dam. Evidently you go around in a big circle, but then when you get sucked into the falling water it can pull you under and that is when he shucked his drawers. Must have been kinda like the Polecat's moon job from that point on... Tom Goynes <goynes@centurytel.net> - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 10:25:09 (CST) Robert, last month I lost my grandmother, who was my first canoe shuttle some 30 years ago and I received a lot of support from the TWS group and we share your loss. That is a great part of this group and this billboard. When I first found it though the first thing I read was the Gar repellant stuff. Still don't know where I put individuals who spread such disinformation. Safari is coming soon and since this race keeps attracting more and more paddlers like myself I would hope that disinformation is going to be something of the past. Paddlers can get seriously hurt on the river..This weekend's Seminar is put on to prevent those kinds of things. If you review past seminars taped by Pat Gunn, you can learn a lot and Robert has a great segment in the tape. So thanks in advance to all the Safari vets that take the time to educate the newbies. One last thing, since I hope it will be addressed in the Seminar, is the Cummings dam. While I don't want to disagree with Colin since he is an experienced racer, I would hope that Tom's thinking will prevail. It is fun to run Rio Vista, but there is too much potential for keel damage to me to run during the Big Dance. But Cummings given the right conditions could be a viable option for some racers. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Thursday, March 14, 2002 at 09:03:04 (CST) Robert, On behalf of BOAT #9 FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR, I'd like to say that we are sorry to hear about your mom. Any mom who can make it down to the race will always have a special place in the heart of the racers in Texas. I dont know if I ever met her but I am sure that those who did will surley miss her. Jon Schoepflin <jon.schoepflin@nextel.com> - Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 15:34:42 (CST) ROBERT ON BEHALF OF TEAM GRUMPY OLD OLD MEN. WE ARE SORRY FOR YOUR LOSS. I NEVER MET YOUR MOTHER, BUT I THINK I MISSED A BLESSING. WE WISH THE BEST TO YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. RICHARD MILLER <RICHETEL@YAHOO.COM> - Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 15:05:54 (CST) Robert, I'm sorry to read of your loss. I lost count some time ago of the number of times you mother wished me "good luck" at the check in, usually followed by a gentle pat on the arm. She was a sweet lady, and I'll miss seeing her. John Mark Harras <JohnMark.Harras@PZLQS.com> - Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 12:49:28 (CST) A friend of the TWS passed away Tuesday, March 12. Ruby Youens (mother of Robert Youens) died peacefully at her home with family. Ruby attended 17 TWS as a spectator and competitor's parent. She once hosted the TWS post race party at her home in Columbus. She loved the race and the people that it attracted. Despite her age and disabilities, she somehow always got to the race. Some may remember the year that she fainted from heat exposure, and was taken by ambulance to the San Marcos hospital during check in. Rather than thinking about herself, she was worrying about my race and did not want me to mess up my effort. I will sorely miss seing my mom on the bank of the San Marcos river. Robert Youens Robert Youens <txsnapper@aol.com> - Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 09:51:35 (CST) Re. Cumming's Dam: While I don't normally recommend that anyone run Cumming's Dam, it must be said that things change. Normally Cummings involves a 12 foot drop. Currently the boards that usually fill the slot are gone, so the drop is much smaller (one report is that it is only 2 to 3 feet). The last time such a thing happened was back in the early 1980's. At that time the dam blew out on the right side, so the Cumming's family removed the boards to repair the dam. At first the run was kinda dangerous, with a couple of kayakers getting temporarily pinned. But by the end of the summer, when the sediment had washed out and the level of the river had dropped, the drop was a piece of cake. Boy and girl scouts were running it with no problem. So, things do change. While Cumming's looked really hairy when it first blew out back in December, I know that it will eventually look like a river going through a slot in an obsolete dam. So I would be very careful about mandating portages now for an event that won't happen until June. Things change. The bottom line is that each racer will have to have enough river sense to make his own decisions regarding Cumming's Dam and a whole lot of other places on the river. And the novice should definately err on the side of being too careful. So, when in doubt, portage. Tom Goynes <goynes@centurytel.net> - Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 09:27:27 (CST) SOLO BOAT for rent - Three time finisher solo kayak for rent.(4th place solo unlimited in 1997, 2000, 8th place solo unlimited in 2001) Includes boat(17'1" Sea Kayak, water jugs, light system, Course description booklet, Team Captain manual with maps, racer equipment list, Team Captain equipment list. Will rent now till right after 2002 race. $ 300.00. email for further details. Call 972-293-6415 Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Wednesday, March 13, 2002 at 09:19:58 (CST) Man, when I keep seeing pics of a little red and white kayak on Safari, I had to ask Capt.Jack who was the manly man that paddled that thing 260 miles. Do we know for sure there is rebar spikes and broken concrete in Cummings chute?...and if so, how far below the surface. Hadn't whoever rules on the route better go ahead and rule on this, so we know if we need to learn the chute or just endure the regular hernia of hauling your boat up the gravel bank. After hauling my boat over the dam twice lately, I was sort of hoping the chute could be the route...but I'm used to whitewater. Will Mike Peck <willpeck711@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, March 12, 2002 at 20:26:10 (CST) Going to make a run from the Park to Fentress on Saturday and Fentress to Luling 90 on Sunday, anyone who wants join us is welcome. We will be checking out portages and re-learning the river after the flood(s). We'll be camping at Spencer's Friday and Saturday. Paul Ohlemacher "Ohle's Pride - BB" (972) 977-5541 Paul Ohlemacher <P_Ohle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, March 12, 2002 at 16:36:29 (CST) The shooting of Cummings should not be considered safe just because you think "its no more difficult than Rio Vista". The threat you percieve from the hydraulic is only half the picture - should someone be foolish enough to shoot Cummings at a moderate to high water level and the boat "swamp" it could leave the paddler in the rear exposed to the re bar and concrete submerged at the right of the shoot and the potential of being caught in a recirculating hydraulic. My rule for shooting would be to see if the "Play boaters" consider it safe and spend their time there. My thought is they don't whereas they know Rio Vista is clear of the sort of spikes that could impale a head. Remember too that the folks in the "squirt boats" as a rule, use helmets and wear buoyancy aids. OK I agree it is a difficult portage - but if taken carefully you would still be able to enjoy all that the river has to offer. I would hope that this remains a mandatory portage for the Safari and all TCRA races on this stretch of river as shooting the Broken Dam at Cummings is only a route for the foolhardy. Colin Colin Grimshaw <cagandjepm@earthlink.net> - Tuesday, March 12, 2002 at 09:46:54 (CST) I think that lots of boats will prefer to run Cummings Dam in the safari. I realize the danger involved with turbulance and crazy currents, but it doesn't seem much more life threatening than Rio Vista. We shot it in an open aluminum canoe yesterday, taking on just a little water. It was about a 2-3 foot drop, clean and sweet. You just gotta make sure and get the nose lined up with the center of the slot, and don't clam up. There's potential for a real disaster while doing the portage, too. And the portage isn't even as much fun. How frequent are the deaths? Were any of them wearing PFDs? Vance Jones <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 17:44:46 (CST) damn, either this board needs a spell checker or I need a better proof reader... "specifically" CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 17:03:51 (CST) FYI - The following URL is an article in this weekends Houston Chronicle discussing SanAntonio's continuing woes with their water supply, their reliance on the Edwards Aquifier, and planned reservoirs for future water supplies. It doesn't spicific say it in this article, but there has been a plan for a reservoir between Hochheim and Cheapside on the books for quite a while. SanAntonio's reliance on the Edward's Aquifer has had a major effect on the flow of the SanMarcos for quite some time. In the future Safari participants may have to paddle across a large reservoir before they get to Cheapside and the SanMarcos may end up a gravel storm drainage with no water except after a rain? But I'm sure all the SafariRiverRats will adapt, they always do... - http://www.chron.com/cs/CDA/story.hts/metropolitan/1290179 CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 10:48:51 (CST) Kava Kava works well too. It has a natural calming affect. scott johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 09:51:06 (CST) I think Kanuyou needs a big hug. Out with the bad air, in with the good air... Norm Thomas <nthomas90252@aol.com> - Monday, March 11, 2002 at 09:27:08 (CST) Just thought I would share some helpful hints that make outfitting the foam for boats much easier. 1. Cutting Holes - For 16 oz water bottles use a Cambells soup can (make sure you use the right size) cut off one end with a dremel and sharpened the inside edge with a dremel. Push and turn into the foam to cut your hole - For medicine/pills use a film cannister for storage. Use a 1 1/4 circular drill bit. For a cleaner cut grind down the outside edge of the drill bit to sharpen it - For water bottle coolers use a piece of galvanized sheet metal ($3 at home depot in the dyer duct area) roll into the diameter of your cooler and secure with rivits (make sure the nub of the rivet faces inward for a clean cut). Sharpen the inside edge with a dremel, push and turn to cut your hole - For general cutting use an adjustable length razor (the kind that breakaway). To fine tune a hole for fit wrap 150 grit sandpaper around your bottle/cooler and twist in hole. Of course you can use a keyhole saw for all the above, but hey this is much more fun. Hope it helps see you on mike <mjdbld@earthlink.net> - Sunday, March 10, 2002 at 22:41:52 (CST) I have a Scupper Pro TW for sale. Good condition with Harmony paddle. Kurt Mitchell <jkurtmitchell@yahoo.com> - Sunday, March 10, 2002 at 16:26:22 (CST) We have a low mileage Alumacraft QT-17CL Quetico canoe for sale. Bow slider, foot brace, 2 jug holders, bow & stern lightened up. Only raced 2 times, no safaris, low training miles. Very good condition. $700 E-mail if interested... Pam Smart <psmart@wnonline> - Sunday, March 10, 2002 at 11:33:45 (CST) SOLO BOAT for rent - Three time finisher solo kayak for rent.(4th place solo unlimited in 1997, 2000, 8th place solo unlimited in 2001) Includes boat(17'1" Sea Kayak, water jugs, light system, Course description booklet, Team Captain manual with maps, racer equipment list, Team Captain equipment list. Will rent now till right after 2002 race. $ 300.00. email for further details. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Friday, March 08, 2002 at 20:24:13 (CST) Guys, you need to be very careful around the dams. I believe that Cummins will be a must portage during the Safari, people get killed there and at Martindale dam frequently, and they usually never thought they were in any danger until way too late. Dam hydraulics are strong and unforgiving, so the best thing is to stay away. John Mark Harras <JohnMark.Harras@PZLQS.com> - Friday, March 08, 2002 at 16:24:50 (CST) Anyone out there have a cheap aluminum canoe for sale, or know anyone that does? Thanks Jeff Jouett <jj@visualcnc.com> - Friday, March 08, 2002 at 12:57:00 (CST) Regarding reflection of light off the front of the boat: I painted the top of the bow of our boat with flat black paint last year and it worked pretty well. My light was mounted about 18" from the front an about 7" high. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Friday, March 08, 2002 at 12:15:23 (CST) Of a more serious nature, cold winter paddling has the advantage of little to few reptiles. On Wednesday, I encountered my first water moccassin sunning on a log. So if you haven't been looking for snakes around the nasty stuff, it is probably a good time to start. Though a Novice to Safari, my forty years of outdoor experience has taught me that when everything is going great, you can get by with cutting corners and even live to brag about it, but do it long enough and it will bite you in the butt. My advice is that I would take your lights seriously this year. And yes, I have bought Jay's setup and highly recommend.. And since I started running trotlines at the age of three, if you have never been attacked by a gar at night, consider yourself lucky or you simply don't have enough time on the water. And Capt. Jack they make a non-reflective tape that will eliminate the glare off the deck of your boat from night lights that you might try. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Friday, March 08, 2002 at 09:40:35 (CST) Hello, wanting to buy a sit on top sea kayak like the Illusion. It is 14'+. Could I handle the San Marcus from City Park down to Staples OK in it? I see you guys with your 16'+ boats and think it is possible. And how about the Guadalupe? Don't want to portage, can I turn these long boats enough to run cotton seed and stuff like that? If Woodrow is there, do you still have the Scupper for sale? Thanks. Wyatt Watkins <leftseat140@houston.rr.com> - Friday, March 08, 2002 at 02:05:03 (CST) My son and I ran the upper San Marcos in midsized kayaks today. He did the chute through Cummings dam, while I practiced portaging. Uuugh! Envy. The chute is pretty straightforward with a kayak and skirt, similar to the chute at Rio Vista dam, which is a blast, and cools you off at the start of the run. There's many semi-submerged snags in the upper stretch, but all with an open lane thru, til about a mile above the confluence with the Blanco with one complete jam across the river, which we managed to paddle and push ourselves over in kayaks without loads. It looks like a log somebody had chainsawed upstream had floated down and jammed in a gap....& had a very sharp splintered left end on it. Next time we will try to dislodge it and open the gap up. Til then be alert for it. Will Michael Peck <willpeck711@hotmail.com> - Thursday, March 07, 2002 at 20:04:44 (CST) I suppose in Eod?s case it is a matter of survival. Eod has never finished a TWS. His only shot is to buy the absolute best. He has dropped out 3 times. When did it become so important to have such a bright light? I am not traveling faster then 3 or 4 mph at night. What is there to avoid? If I was in a boat like Bugge?s or 1 of the other ultra fast boats maybe I consider one but I want to upgrade to better paddles first. Plenty of boats finished before cruise missle technology was introduced to the TWS and plenty more will finish without the technology. Hamel is right. The rainmaker formula is accurate but has little to due with the TWS and a $300 power system for a light. Lithium works just fine. That being said, where can I buy some that $200 Gar Repellent? Speaking of, I could not help but read about his not so subtle Gar Repellent sales attempt. His email is from Enviroderm, a manufacturer of a Gar Repellent. Bob Rodright <br99@hotmail.com> - Thursday, March 07, 2002 at 18:38:35 (CST) What John Hamel fails to realize is that it's not a matter of winning, or even finishing, it's a matter of survival. Survival under these extreme conditions can ultimately come down to the ability to avoid hazards! The Rainmaker formula is sound; watts/volts=Amp Draw, and the brighter the light, the easier to identify hazards. The NAUGHERS are just waitin to getcha, so if you don't use an Industrial strength NAUGHER wax, than a bright light will be your only salvation. Truely, the only reason I can muster not to go with the cruise missle batteries is the dreaded ALLIGATOR GAR. Those damn things are attracted to light, and without any moonlight this year, your bow light is going to be the only light source around. God be with you if your using a head lamp without a liberal amount of Gar Repellant on yourself, your gear, and your boat! See you in the monkey kingdom. John Eod <enviroderm@hotmail.com> - Thursday, March 07, 2002 at 18:13:27 (CST) I read the ?pitch? on the $300 batteries. Let me first write that if I even can a smell a chance of bringing home metal from a race, I will pay, and have paid, top dollar for any snake oil, perpetual motion machine or any voodoo spell casting device that could improve my chance of winning. However, the key word is winning. The only teams that can justify spending that much money on a non-durable good send each holiday cards. The rest of us can spend our money in much better ways. The article/pitch focus on the comparison between the total investment of the TWS and the cost of the $300 batteries. The article writes that every year boats drop because their light systems fail. Lets start with the ?investment?. There are two types of goods to consider for this type of one time purchase: durable and non-durable. A boat is a durable good. When you buy a boat, you own it until you die or destroy it. It is a durable good. Durable goods are a sunk cost. A non-durable good can be used up, like a one time use $300 battery. What the article fails to compare is the marginal cost of the battery. The marginal cost of the battery is the difference between a $300 battery and a $25 battery. With that out in the open, is your $275 better spent on seven pounds or another type of equipment? My belief after seeing myself and most of the competitors with their shirts off, is that $275 can be saved by visiting Jenny Craig and losing 1.75 pounds per paddler per four-man boat. So the question becomes, ?can my $275 be better spent?? The author wrote that boats drop every year because of inadequate lighting systems. I am sure this is true but do they drop because the battery failed, the system failed, or the paddlers just wanted to quit. In all honesty, it is probably usually the latter. I do not have the numbers but I cannot imagine that the majority of people that quit or have to drop do so because their battery was not bright enough. I know because I have completed the TWS with just an ordinary headlamp. Compare this concept with the number of people that have dropped because they heavy paddles, bad food, etc, etc. So the qualitative question is ?should I spend $275 on a battery or other equipment?? If you do not have a chance of wining, buy two carbon fiber paddles, a heart rate monitor and a beer for the winners. You will be much better off. If you have a chance of winning, buy the $300 battery, the snake oil, the perpetual motion machine and the voodoo spell-casting device. John Hamel <hamel@hotmail.com> - Thursday, March 07, 2002 at 15:52:24 (CST) To moon or not to moon, is that the question? Personally, I like da moon but you might also check with Polecat. Henry <hedornak@aep.com> - Thursday, March 07, 2002 at 13:41:23 (CST) another thing about lights... My bow light is mounted on my front deck about 2' back from the bow and on a bracket about 4" tall. I get a reflection off of the deck in front of the light that is distracting. I haven't decided how I'm going to change it yet but for those out there thinking about their bow lights, mount it far enough forward that it doesn't reflect off of anything but the water ahead of the boat. CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Thursday, March 07, 2002 at 13:40:24 (CST) Anyone else get the 'reverse imagery' effect? Where the light from your beam slightly illuminates the bottom of the leaves on the trees, and the sky is darker? Makes it look like the empty area in front of you is a solid object...that wakes you up in a hurry...... Kevin Ellis <Trainwreck20@hotmail.com> - Thursday, March 07, 2002 at 13:20:24 (CST) After 19 trips (18 on the river, 1 as teamcaptain) I will take moonlight whenever I can get it! I had two trips that could have been run with no lights. Some moons are brighter because of humidity, barometric pressure and all that scientific stuff. Plan on no light at all and be thankful for any light (except for flashlights in the eyes) you get. Ted Slaughter <tedtbsss@aol.com> - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 18:00:08 (CST) To Moon or no to Moon: I think you will prefer moonlight over no moon. I've raced in both and believe me when I say that when there is no moon there is no, none, nada light on the river. If your light goes out be prepared to repair it by feel. With no cities around to light the sky the surrounding area is dark. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 16:44:03 (CST) Last year was my first trip with a near full moon. Now I think I prefer no moon. The moon glare on the water was a problem and The moonlight "washed out" our beam enough to make me wish for clouds. Someone tell me if I was just wigged out, you know how the Safari treats the human brain. Lynchburg Rangers John <Johnmoretime@yahoo.com> - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 11:44:51 (CST) Regarding batteries. Did you notice that the cheap non alkaline 6 volt batteries are sealed but the expensive alkaline batteries are not. We sealed the top to the sides with Gorilla Glue last year with good results. This glue expands a little after you apply it. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Monday, March 04, 2002 at 10:47:25 (CST) Waterproofing batteries: We have a little more experiential input. Both alkaline and lithiums can go bad if wet. Systems we have seen that worked: seal the batteries in Tupperware and test holding underwater in a bathtub. Seal the batteries in heavyduty ziploc bags, Gooping, twisting, tying off the exit/wires, and test thoroughly underwater. Some of the meisters have been seen sealing lantern batteries with Goop around all the edges. Suspend the batteries up off the bottom of the boat. Welcome further input/ideas. gp <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Saturday, March 02, 2002 at 09:13:35 (CST) keel....not kel. keel, keel, keel still asleep <attitude@corridor.net> - Saturday, March 02, 2002 at 08:03:03 (CST) After reading the posts regarding the race in Florida I went to the watertribe site. If you have never visited that page it's worth the trip. There are some great short articles on stuff like sleep deprivation, etc. scott "asleep at the kel" johnson scott johnson <attitude@corridor> - Saturday, March 02, 2002 at 07:58:35 (CST) Hey Tom Pope, Thanks for the "enlightening" news about no moon for the race. I hate it! I've raced with no moon before WHAT A PAIN. However, that was just my second time. I'm prepared for the darkness, bring it on. But Tom just wanted to say thanks for the web link it is awesome (very informative) and useful. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 22:17:08 (CST) Rainmaker Canoes and can be contacted at 281-787-2271 or jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net. Richard is correct the darker the night the less need there is for "bright" light since you won't have to overpower the moonlight to beat the shadows. Thanks for the plug Jack. Jay "Horsefly" Daniel <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 21:51:39 (CST) Hey HorseFly - since it's going to be a dark race this year you should post an ad for your light system. CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 18:21:34 (CST) In my efforts to ready my boat for the TWS I found a good/inexpensive foam supplier out of San Antonio and thought I'd share. e-mail me if anyone would like more info. FYI they have 3" EVA sheets for water bottles & 1 1/8" IV1 foam for se mike <mjdbld@earthlink.net> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 15:19:11 (CST) NO MOON SOUNDS GOOD TO ME. MY BLIND BUTT CAN'T SEE ANYWAY. ACTUALLY THE DARKER THE NIGHT THE BETTER YOUR LIGHTS WORK (GOOD LIGHTS TAHT IS}. OH BOY, HERE WE GO AGAIN WITH THE LIGHTS. RICHARD MILLER {TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN) RICHARD MILLER <tivhryrl@yahoo.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 11:17:09 (CST) Better have good lights for the safari this year.There is going to be no moonlight at all. The race is going to take place on the least shiny nights of the month. Check this website for info: http://www.googol.com/moon/ tom pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 08:46:23 (CST) Devoman/SheadDog take first place overall, finishing at 2:19a today. gp <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 07:56:00 (CST) Speculation: Best case: We know Jame/Mike left cp#3 about 2p yest facing 35 miles due east across the southern tip of Florida. Wind held about 7 mph from the north (ok) through the early evening. Temp had moderated to high 40's. They were cold and tired, but definitely planning to bring it home. Debie and kids were on their way to meet them, maybe 9-10p (3.5 days, total). Worst case: this morning the wind is 13mph from the east, they could have had a bad crossing/night. Their apparent competition has not been heard from for 36 hours, has not made cp#3 (concern/search?). We should know by noon. gp <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 07:53:49 (CST) Push a Peanut up Pike's Peak? That sounds like something that somebody from California would do. I bet he was from California and moved to Austin and said he was from Texas. If he was from Texas he would have had enough sense to use some of those knee pads from the hardware store. True Texan <Willcall@hotmail.com> - Friday, March 01, 2002 at 00:05:50 (CST) These ultra-ultra endurance races bring to mind one of the great unheralded human achievements of all time. Many years ago a Texan pushed a peanut up Pikes Peak with his nose. I think he wore out something like 10 pairs of blue jeans in doing so. Think its easy try pushing one up the drive way three or four times. mike stinson <stinsonmike@hotmail.com> - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 17:18:22 (CST) James and Mike made it to cp#3 at 1:07p. Route via the canoe trail was 99 miles, they paddled straight through. GPS broke, had to navigate with map and compass through the labrynth of swamp. Never left their boat. Winds 35-40 mph, down to 30 degrees. They welcomed a hot shower, borrowed some dry clothes and are laying down the hammer for the last 35 miles (James has an important business meeting tomorrow morning!) gp <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 13:59:27 (CST) No word fm our guys for 24 hours. Yest they were taking the longer canoe trail to escape the weather. At least one other boat was chasing via the outside route, but as of last night had pulled in because of weather. Info is cryptic. There are still some tough dudes in this race. gp <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 11:33:32 (CST) No word yet on how James/Mike fared last night. Because of the heavy seas were planning to run the "canoe trail" from cp#2 (James had scouted this/we had discussed.) The race site shows 9 of 19 boats have dropped out. No other boats reported making much progress (to cp#2) and some may drop. Hopeful James/Mike will make cp#3 today, with 35 miles to finish. gp <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, February 28, 2002 at 08:18:14 (CST) Organizers seem a little slow in posting progress. In addition to cp#2 arrival, the lads had a round with mosquitos last night, then the cold front hit. 30 degrees out in the open in the wind. Thawed out until 9 this morning and hit it. Hard to say where this puts their finish, hopefully tomorrow night, depending somewhat on how tough tonight is. (Some other boats may be dropping out.) gp <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, February 27, 2002 at 18:24:46 (CST) An update on Devoglaer & Shea in the WaterTribe Everglades Challenge - they reached Chokoloskee/CkPt2 at 03:30 and left at 09:00. Way out in front!!! CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Wednesday, February 27, 2002 at 16:11:40 (CST) There's no drought now, the river is flowing better than normal. It hasn't rained much in the last couple of months so it's dropping, but nobody knows what we'll get in the next couple months. You can check river flows at this site: http://water.usgs.gov/tx/nwis/current?type=dailydischarge&group_key=basin_cd&search_site_no_station_nm= Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 22:48:57 (CST) As of 2-2-02, Prairie Lea's are gone, There are 2 log jams below I-10 that require a portage, & Son of Ottine rapid is pretty hairy, lots of debris, lots of flow. Vance Jones <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 18:01:46 (CST) Is the draught supposed to affect the TWS for 2002? Jon Orban <o@companyfinance.com> - Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 13:29:44 (CST) "Tough bay crossing. Surfed across with pumps going full blast. Boat full of water with zero freeboard. Slackwater tough." Site postings: cp #1, Devo/Shea, 8p 25th and paddled on. DrKayak 1:45a 26th, Porky 3a, FloatingDoc 3:15a, Greybeard 8:10a, Blacksun 8a, Turtle 8:40a, SaltyFrog 10:25a, Sailwithme 12:13p gp <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 12:39:09 (CST) Another update from DevoMan & SheaDog. They were caught up in changing weather condition last night and ran into some "rough stuff". They both decided to pull over and take care of body maintainance. Because of that they're now behind by about 6 hours their eta. However, from the sound of Devo's voice, they're feeling strong and ready to paddle hard again. Hobie <ddevo@mindspring.com> - Tuesday, February 26, 2002 at 08:08:02 (CST) For those who are following the Everglades Challenge, I have the following updates for James and Mike. We saw them off this morning at Fort Desoto, Florida, under clear blue skies and fairly warm temps (upper 60s). There was and still are much concern about the incoming cold fronts and the chance of strong winds. There were 19 other boats competing and not all were as ready to get into the water as Devo and Mike. They paddled hard and got the headstart from everyone else. At 8:23PM this evening I received my phone call from Devo to let me know that they had arrived at checkpoint 1. It was rough crossing the bay but they made it ok. Both were in good shape and high spirit. They did not plan on hanging around the checkpoint long and were getting back into the boat as we spoke. Mike wanted everyone to know they executed their "surfski skills perfectly". I was told that many of you will know what this is in reference to. Their goal is to make it to checkpoint 2, Chokoloski Island, in 12-14 hours. I promised Devo that I would send updates so that our friends in Texas can travel along side us. Thanks and will keep you all posted. Hobie. Hobie <ddevo@mindspring.com> - Monday, February 25, 2002 at 23:42:37 (CST) Devo wanted us to report: Devoman and Sheadog launched this morning in the 300 mile Everglades Race. In a Spencer tandem. As I understand, the race crosses Tampa Bay and goes down the coast. Sails are permitted. Last year the winning time was 5 days 7 hours. There is of course no assisting current and the wind and waves can be huge factors. If the wind is up, sea kayaks have a theoretical advantage. Our lads are planning to apply Safari principles/techniques--ain't planning to sleep much! No idea how it is going to unfold, you do the math: 7 mph(?) x 24 hrs... = ??, ... x 48 hrs = ?? Weather was fair this morning. Sposed to be in the 50's tonight. They are racing a front south. Reports seem to indicate it may get below 30 degrees Thursday night (4 days x 7 mph = ??) Ms Devo is planning to relay news as she hears from James. And, the organizers will report as each team clears the checkpoints. (www.watertribe.com) goodpaddle <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Monday, February 25, 2002 at 21:10:57 (CST) Team looking for a captain: My son (18) and I (47) are in need of a captain - we will have one or two 17 year olds with us, but need an adult for a captain. We will be competitive in the competition cruiser class - we were fourth in the Yukon Riverquest (450 miles)in 2000. We are from Ontario and will not have a chance to run the river first, therefore an experienced captain would be nice. We will pay all out of pocket expenses. (I tried emailing Mike Smith who posted a notice Feb 4th offering to be a captain but have received no reply). Any offer or leads would be appreciated. Wayne Gregory <gre8@rogers.com> - Monday, February 25, 2002 at 20:56:25 (CST) Looking to buy a used Canoe Trailer that carries 2+ canoes... If anybody know of one please E-Mail me... Thanks Paul Ohlemacher <P_Ohle@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, February 19, 2002 at 22:23:32 (CST) The solo boat I used in 00 was about 19" wide at midship. But it had some really good tumblehome. --West West Hansen <west@jump.net> - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 22:13:22 (CST) I'm a first timer considering taking on the TWS 2002. Can some of you veterans pass along some friendly advice on where to get the necessary equipment, how the river passages look this year, animal encounters, expectations, etc. I'd appreciate it. You can mail me at bh_parker@hotmail.com or post a reply. bhparker <bh_parker@hotmail.com> - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 20:48:23 (CST) Vance: How did the river look from Luling to Palmetto, when you ran it couple of weeks ago? Paul Ohlemacher "Ohle's Pride - BB" Paul OHlemacher <P_Ohle@yahoo.com> - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 17:46:52 (CST) We shot the gap in Cummings Dam in an open canoe yesterday. There doesn't appear to be any sharpened rebar or other hazzards, other than the wicked turbulance. We did not capsize, but did take on a little bit o water. What a ride!! Vance <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Monday, February 18, 2002 at 17:21:45 (CST) Those heavy poly boats are practical for finishing the safari, but you won't begin to set any records. We saw several of them from 14 to about 18 feet long finish in time to catch the banquet on tuesday. They are so tough that you can throw them over the dams and not worry about them breaking. I saw one guy falling asleep while he was paddling without tipping over. Thomas Mendenhall and CaptJack, I think, both used heavy poly boats last year. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 23:49:42 (CST) Tom: Thanks,good advice, I do plan to "observe" three of the spring races to find out what "fast" looks like,probably from the rear in a diminishing image;and I have seen some composite skincoat racing canoes at Spensers;and have found out which type/size/weight of boats various finishers have used by asking around and watching this forum. So, despite repeatedly whacking myself up the side of the head with the dumb end of my double paddle, I vaguely understand that long, slender, and light is usually faster than short,wide,and heavy..my understanding limited only by the vagueness of the terms....so I would like to see the specifics as to boat size and weight listed along with the reams of other information on the website, to know who had custom built racing boats ala Spenser and Daniels, etc...(20"beam, 22'length, 37lb, Kevlar/Carbon-fiber-composite) and who paddled plastic production models kayaks and finished consistently.(28"beam,17'1"length, poli, 58lb, Perception sea lion, whatever). With that specific information added to the page, a newcomer could immediately judge the practicality of his poli Loon kayak for the TWS, for example, because he could see comparable boats finished around 85 hours, or whatever, depending on cfs and other factors. I, for one,would find it really interesting to see this info on a historical basis,to watch the size of the winning boat grow slimmer,longer,change materials and add crew from 1963 to 2003, as well as see the dimensions of the solo boats change. West Hansen,obviously an expert in solo and team paddling, made comments that seem to indicate a point of diminishing returns in his experience on getting a narrow solo boat, and I'm wondering exactly where that was, say 20", 22", what? My curiousity on the paddles was also sparked by online pictures which seem to show a team starting out with doubles and using singles later in the race. I find twisting with a single blade more tiring than low strokes with balanced double blade, and slower also...but I've never paddled more than ten hours nonstop in my poli sea kayak(17'4"length,22.5"beam,60lb.), so theres a lot I don't know, eh? still listening, will michael Will Michael Peck <willpeck@hotmail.com> - Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 10:47:20 (CST) Will Micheal Peck You need to observe some of the races coming up in the spring and you will see what is fast and what is not. Teams that have the desire to go fast use long, narrow boats that are also light. You don't see any plastic boats such as the perception dagger, which is a fun whitewater boat, finishing in the top ranks. You can go by Spencer's or TG canoe in Martindale to get an idea of what the fast boats are made of, you won't see any fast boats at REI. Double paddles are efficient in a sprint race but they typically weigh twice as much as a single paddle weighs. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Sunday, February 17, 2002 at 01:31:40 (CST) Folks:It seems to me it would be very helpful and informative for the webmaster to list the boat each finisher used, with length and beam, along with all the split times, etc.(ie.perception dagger, _'_"long, _"wide..)since the shape of the boat has a lot to do with the finish times. I'm really wondering how narrow the boat was the West Hansen refers to in his recent comment. Also, as a kayaker who finds double paddle more effecient than single, I am intrigued with West's comment on the "sometimes energy draining" double paddle, and hope he could amplify it a bit to further my understanding. Overall I have found the website and helpful attitude of the veteran safari folks quite impressive and commendable. thanks, Will Mike Peck Will Michael Peck <willpeck711@hotmail.com> - Saturday, February 16, 2002 at 11:45:37 (CST) The correct date for the Dupont race is April 6. It was moved due to a conflict with another race. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 14:33:10 (CST) Is the April 6 date correct for the Dupont to Seadrift race. In earlier releases the date was April 27.Not complaining, I think its great,someone in the know please confirm. Thanks ken shaver - Thursday, February 14, 2002 at 13:49:40 (CST) Correction: my last solo finish was in '00. West Hansen <west@jump.net> - Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 20:53:32 (CST) RE: the Safari in a K-1 or sprint kayak. In '90 I finished solo in about the skinniest boat I could muster, a Landick/Lacy/Spain/Horsefly/Wueste Unlimited C-1. It was fine the first day, but fatigue during the second day caused a severe loss of balance, relegating me to the stability of the often energy draining double blade. My single blade was useless, since I couldn't hut without tumping over. Dance with the one what brung ya'. I completed my first Safari in a Perception Dancer, not because it was bullet fast, but because it was stable and all I knew was whitewater at that time. A K-1 in the Safari will mean certain death to your rear, legs and speed. --West Hansen, 1997 National Marathon Champion ICF C-2 West Hansen <west@jump.net> - Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 20:51:21 (CST) Interesting series of photographs, at first I thought they were taken at the Palmetto LW bridge last June.... http://personal.lig.bellsouth.net/lig/r/a/rayf/Ramblers/towboat.html Ken K <perromas@yh> - Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 15:33:47 (CST) Who does the artwork for the homepage..?? I want to smoke what they have....!! Doug Mackay <dmackay@grindingsource.com> - Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 13:03:23 (CST) For sale. Brand new! 13'9" Prijon Beluga Basic.white w/ Wildwasser installed rudder system.$600.00 woodrow courtney <hellbentcelt@aol.com> - Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 11:54:37 (CST) The 2002 Texas Water Safari packet is online !Bob Brooks <kayaker@tamu.edu> - Wednesday, February 13, 2002 at 11:08:42 (CST) I've seen Cummings dam lately and have portaged around it every time. It doesn't safe to run. You would definitely get swamped in a canoe. There's a lot of flow and it is passing through an 8 foot wide opening in the dam and dropping at least 5 feet, maybe more. I'm sure a kayaker will try it, but I want to live to do at least one more safari. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Monday, February 11, 2002 at 22:42:09 (CST) Rumor has it that some people have been running the new Cummings Dam shoot. Just curious if any TWSers have done this and how safe is it? Any comments or recommendations welco mike <mjdbld@earthlink.net> - Monday, February 11, 2002 at 22:30:09 (CST) Has anyone ever used a downriver racing style kayak in the TWS. If so, how successful were they? woodrow courtney <hellbentcelt@aol.com> - Saturday, February 09, 2002 at 16:30:38 (CST) When are the 2002 applications going to be available? Should I use the 2001 application? Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Saturday, February 09, 2002 at 14:27:43 (CST) Barb and I are planning on paddling Fentress to Palmetto on Saturday Feb. 16. Anyone who would like to join us please email or call me at 817 512-4395. Chris Gross <chris144@airmail.net> - Friday, February 08, 2002 at 20:23:20 (CST) Where's Fuzzy when we need him. Steve have you seen the bow of Fuzzy's Spencer tandem. It's got some nice gator nose art. CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 18:37:30 (CST) Steve, Naming your boat Gator Bait will be perfectly safe as long as you also put a coat of Gator/Gar repellent (just ask around the check-in for some) on the boat and it won't do you any harm to splash some on your body also. I once saw a quote that said: Gators like kayaks the best because they are crunchy on the outside and chewy in the middle. Roy =:-) Roy Lewis <wwildchild@aol.com> - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 17:25:16 (CST) Oops! I meant Captain Jack. Sorry about that. Steve Daniel <sdaniel@zydecodevelopment.com> - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 16:36:19 (CST) Due to Captain John's article, we may consider changing our team name - which is also displayed on our boat: GATOR BAIT. What do you think? Steve Daniel <sdaniel@zydecodevelopment.com> - Wednesday, February 06, 2002 at 16:33:51 (CST) Beware... Gator- 1 Kayaker- 0 - http://www.theledger.com/local/local/04GATO.HTM CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Tuesday, February 05, 2002 at 00:36:05 (CST) River report from Cuero 236 to Seadrift. Rapids below Thomaston not showing any exposed rocks. A little bumpy but easily negotiated and dry in an Alum. Logjam above Coleto creek still there and growing. Nice tire with rusted rim available for the taking along the preferred left side. Water level (tides) are back to normal in the bay following recent Cold front. Side note for Andrew - really like the Power Surge, which is only twenty bucks more than Flatwater, but jury is still out for me personally due to some forearm soreness. Henry Dornak <hedornak@aep.com> - Monday, February 04, 2002 at 18:40:33 (CST) The E-mail for Rainmaker Canoes is jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net. Please feel free to call or E-mail. Jay Daniel Rainmaker Canoes 281-787-2271 jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net Jay Daniel <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Monday, February 04, 2002 at 17:42:02 (CST) Does anyone have an email address for Rainmaker canoes? I've tried two different ones that I've come across and they both came back. Thanks. Jeff Jouett <jj@visualcnc.com> - Monday, February 04, 2002 at 14:02:25 (CST) WANTED: Team in search of a captain. I really wanted to attempt the race this year, but injuries will keep me from being in a canoe that long. I live in San Marcos, and will be available for meetings, prelim races and of course, the TWS. Please email if you are looking for a captain. Mike Smith <mikesmith393@hotmail.com> - Monday, February 04, 2002 at 09:17:11 (CST) Test your night racing skills at the East Fork West Fork Challenge, Texas' only start at night canoe race. Featured in this month's Texas Parks and Wildlife magazine. Entry fee only $25. Race website http://www.geocities.com/mikestinson1/ mike stinson <stinsonmike@hotmail.com> - Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 22:10:59 (CST) Hey, Robert, of course you're crazy -- but that's just the first requirement to doing this little baby. People have successfully soloed in smaller boats than yours and others have had to drop out while paddling superfast boats. Just go for it; you will learn a ton about yourself and the race by doing, no matter how you end up. Do the seminar for tips -- the folks that put it on are outstanding paddlers and completely unselfish in laying out helpful tips. Then why don't you just load your Yak up with a ton of gear/weight and take a run from San Marcos to Palmetto, or Luling, if Palmetto doesn't fit into your schedule , just so you have to make a half dozen to a dozen little portages over the dams and log jams, and see if you make those early checkpoints with time to spare before the deadline -- that'll tell you where you are -- Good Luck, and Have Norm Thomas <nthomas90252@aol.com> - Saturday, February 02, 2002 at 12:51:13 (CST) RIVER REPORT {VICTORIA 175 TO TIVOLI CHARLIE STEWART,NATE STEWART AND I PADDLED THIS SECTION LAST SAT. ALONG WITH ERIN {SHE IS SETTING THE WATER ON FIRE IN HER SOLO BOAT}AND JAY AND FUZZY IN THIER TANDEM BOAT. THERE IS A LOG JAM ABOUT AN HOUR BELOW 175. WE MANAGED TO WORK AROUND THE LEFT END WITHOUT TO MUCH PROB. BUT YOU KNOW HOW LOG JAMS ARE, SUBJECT TO CHANGE AT ANY TIME. ITS SOMETHING TO KEEP AN EYE ON. THE REST OF THE RIVER IS SMOOTH SAILING TO TIVOLI. GRIP IT AND RIP IT RICHARD MILLER {TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN} <richetel@yahoo.com> - Friday, February 01, 2002 at 10:02:13 (CST) SOLO BOAT for rent - Three time finisher solo kayak for rent.(4th place solo unlimited in 1997, 2000, 8th place solo unlimited in 2001) Includes boat 17'1 " X 28" Sea Lion, water jugs, light system, Course description booklet, Team Captain manual with maps, racer equipment list, Team Captain equipment list. Will rent from now till right after 2002 race. $ 350.00. email for further details. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 17:28:24 (CST) Hi Robert Frank, feel free to use your kayak on the TWS. My first thru fourth TWS was done in a 58 lb (empty) 17 ft sea kayak! Twice coming in 4th place solo unlimited and once in 8th place solo unlimited. The key is comfort and determination. Check out http://pages.prodigy.net/the.mendenhalls/A_Soloist_web.htm Well at least I think that's it. Take care and good luck. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 17:24:25 (CST) We ran Staples to Luling about a month ago, after the heavy rain. It was pretty clear, the usual sweeper or two, but nothing bad. mike stinson <stinsonmike@hotmail.com> - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 13:16:50 (CST) Has anyone paddled Staples to Luling in the past few weeks? If so, what is the condition of the river regarding logs,jams,sweepers etc. I know that both Prarie Lea crossings are totally gone but any further info would be greatly appreciated in planning training runs. Thanks scott Scott Johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 11:13:14 (CST) I have been following the TWS for about 4 years now, but have never participated. I believe that I have the intestinal fortitude and physical capacity to complete (not "compete") the course, and have been training like mad to get ready for my first TWS in 2002. What I am uncertain about is my equipment. I recently inherited a Dagger Delta kayak. I love this yak: it's comfortable, roomy, and I love to paddle it (I've spent 2 days/nights on a weekend trip to Gonzalez from San Marcos). I am unconcerned about its comfort level; just about its speed. It's only 12'long x 28"w...but aptly accommodates my 245lb self and a bunch of gear. I want desperately to paddle my yak in the 2002 TWS...am I crazy? Do other people use comparable yaks? I am not competing (yet) to win...I would merely be concerned with completing the course within 100 hours. Any advice or opinions about the reality of entering in a 12' yak and finishing within 100 hours? Thanks in advance --- Robert Robert Frank <scoop@austin.rr.com> - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 11:01:34 (CST) I'm looking to get a new zav paddle, I noticed that zav has the new power-surge blade. I was wondering if anyone has had any experince using this blade, and is it worth the extra cost? Andrew Nelson <andrew.n@juno.com> - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 08:40:19 (CST) For Sale: New 18' Wood Rib Solo Canoe. Polypropylene skin. Width - 22" $1500 - Bill Collins, P. O. Box 52, Lehigh, OK 74556 Bill Collins <thelambs@ev1.net> - Thursday, January 31, 2002 at 07:18:27 (CST) The TWS gives the driving guide to everyone that attends the seminar in March, at least for the last few years anyway, and a complimentary copy is also inserted into the team captain's packet at check-in. Free copies are also available to anyone at check-in on Friday before the race. In years past the $2 was simply used to cover printing cost. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 20:16:02 (CST) I've got a copy of "On the road with the texas water safari" from Pat Gunn Spencer when I ordered the "Checkpoints" video. Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Wednesday, January 30, 2002 at 19:41:21 (CST) Looking for a map to the checkpoints? I kept my GPS on durring the whole time I was a team captain last year so I have a Garmin GPS file with waypoints and the routes I took to each checkpoint and public access point. Email me and I will send you a copy. I use Garmin mapping software so it is in .MPS format. If you just need directions to the checkpoints and some public access points, there is a great set of directions put out by the TWS called "On the road with the texas water safari" hopefully it will be available at the TWS seminar or pre-lim. I would love to post this but the proceeds go to the TWS so you need to buy one from the TWS. Roy =:-) #69 Roy Lewis <wwildchild@aol.com> - Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 20:42:49 (CST) looking for a map of all the checkpoints/viewing sights throught the safari.Can anybody help? thanks. Allen Chelette/George Melder <AO37021@netscape.net> - Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 19:49:00 (CST) We are doing a training run, Staples - Palmetto, this Saturday. We plan to leave Staples by 8:00 a.m. If anyone is interested in joining us, bring it on. Vance <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, January 29, 2002 at 16:33:38 (CST) Men in Tights -> wear either nothing under them or wear running shorts over them. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Monday, January 28, 2002 at 18:44:35 (CST) O.K, I learned the hard way in last year's safari that one should wear tights during the race. Not wanting to wear tights, I wore a pair of lightweight, loose-fitting coolmax "amphibian pants" with a built-in liner. They dried out well and were generally comfortable, but the constant brushing of the material against my inner thighs as I paddled ended up rubbing my skin right off, so that by the time I reached Seadrift...but that's another story. So here's my question: What do you "men in tights" wear under your tights? Anything? Nothing? Tom Helm Tom Helm <tom.m.helm@bhpbilliton.com> - Monday, January 28, 2002 at 13:57:35 (CST) I have an old 18' Beaver aluminum canoe (touring model)for sale. If interested please email me direct. Price $450 firm FOB Irving, TX. Delivery negotiable. Mark McClain <mmcbs@aol.com> - Friday, January 25, 2002 at 14:05:08 (CST) Galen, Call Dwayne at TG Canoe Livery or Jack at Spencer's. They both have seats. Or if you like, you can order them from Wenonah at their web sight. scott scott johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Wednesday, January 23, 2002 at 15:42:57 (CST) i am looking for a low priced, entry level kayak. i live on a lake and would like to use the kayak for exercise. i have minimal experiance with a kayak that had rudders and was a top of the line one... but im not a doctor. if anyone can help, please email me because i prob. will never find this site again. thank you. paul zman@wf.net paul zeisman <zman@wf.net> - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 12:42:48 (CST) I am looking for a set of the tractor-type slider seats to install myself into an Alumacraft canoe. Does anyone know a source to buy these from? Thanks for your help. Galen L. Gillum <glgillum@ev1.net> - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 07:37:50 (CST) Anyone know the whereabouts or contact #'s for CJ Hall? A July bulletin indicated he was seeking a tandem partner, but his email address is no longer valid. Thanks in advance for your help. Buck Sheward <smallbiz@wt.net> - Tuesday, January 22, 2002 at 06:30:14 (CST) Need TWS 2002 Tandem Partner - Looking for serious tandem partner for TWS - Standard Division. Partner recently took a promotion and needs to be replaced. I have a Sundowner canoe. Contact me @ 281-380-8765 or email @ smallbiz@wt.net............. Buck Sheward <smallbiz@wt.net> - Sunday, January 20, 2002 at 18:39:01 (CST) There were at least 2 Loons in the race last year and I think 2 the year before. As I remember all of them finished. I paddle a Pamlico rigged solo no problems. None of these boats are very fast. Expect to finish in the 80hr.+ range. Hint: Don't sleep - Keep paddling :) CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Friday, January 18, 2002 at 18:36:33 (CST) Will be doing TWS this year for 1st time...training like wild in a Old Town Loon 160T. Planned to use this in race as a tandem entry...160T Good straight line boat but am I and my partner crazy to use it during the event (ie: Battle ship down the rocky river?). Please enlighten us! Cheers! Mike Gordon <rmjh30@email.sps.mot.com> - Friday, January 18, 2002 at 17:39:03 (CST) We have a low mileage Alumacraft QT-17CL Quetico canoe for sale. Bow slider, foot brace, 2 jug holders, bow & stern lightened up. Only raced 2 times, no safaris, low training miles. Very good condition. $700 E-mail if interested... Bobby & Pam Smart <psmart@wnonline> - Thursday, January 17, 2002 at 17:14:05 (CST) Marek, I contacted a dealer from the Sartek web site and inquired about the HID lighting systems. Conversation went on about brightness, batteries, burn rate, etc., and then he asked how much abuse the light would receive? I told him up front that the light would need to withstand a serious bump or two and that?s where the conversation took an abrupt turn for the worse? well, for Safari folks anyway. He said the lights are VERY vulnerable to drops and solid hits. Also said his dive shop has repair request for the lights on a frequent basis. My advice (its worth what you are paying for it? nothing) is to contact Jay Daniels and have him hook you up with a light bright enough to see the river through closed eyelids. Jay knows his stuff. Worked for me in the 2001 TWS and I?ll be running the same setup in the 300 mile Everglades Challenge on February 25th. James H. "devo" DeVoglaer <jdevo@mindspring.com> Tampa, Fl USA - Thursday, January 17, 2002 at 15:05:40 (CST) LIGHTS. Does anybody have experience with HID lights? It seems that they are getting quite popular in different diving light systems (e.g., Niterider Dive, Sartek, Dive Rite) and biking systems (e.g., Niterider Storm). I am familiar with a posting in the tip section by Glenn Deitiker, but they used 18W HID light. I would consider the smallest 10W light for a solo paddler. How it compares to the conventional 12W light in river conditions? Any drawbacks except price? Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Thursday, January 17, 2002 at 11:45:26 (CST) FYI for all first time team captains (TCs). I found a great atlas for the lower part of the Guadalupe river. It starts at Gonzales and goes all the way to Seadrift. I has detailed maps of Gonzales, Cuero, Victoria, Seadrift and all points in between. It is a great companion to the driving guide, it also gives us TCs a better appreciation of the winding river the paddlers are going down. The map is "The Victoria Regional Atlas," published by TexMaps 1-888-548-MAPS or internet www.texmaps.com. I found mine at the Key Map store in Houston. It has a great layout of the bay in Seadrift. Hope this helps. Evangline Ohlemacher - Team Captain for #6922 Ohle's Pride Evangline Ohlemacher <vongie@swbell.net> - Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 19:17:26 (CST) For Sale: used (very) 5 rib Alumacraft. Safari rigged, "seasoned" boat. 4 time finisher of the safari so it has its scars, Chicks dig 'em! Weld repairs on starboard side, but sound. Finished '02 with the pretty scars. 2 BB Special paddles (good for training and spares) eight 1/2 gallon coolers with closed cell foam holders for 4 in the boat. 12V 1 amp draw bilge pump installed, worked great. $700 (canoe is in Houston area) Greg Gilmore-Neveready <dawghouse3@aol.com> - Tuesday, January 15, 2002 at 09:08:22 (CST) I just found out about some new kayak paddles out of SanDiego. Onno Paddles - http://www.touringkayaks.com/onno_paddles.htm - They look like a really nice paddle at a very reasonable price. CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Friday, January 11, 2002 at 20:33:26 (CST) Our team probably falls into the same mentality as Michael's, since we are looking for a used C-1. Also, have cute sister but might require a relocate to Nevada. Henry Dornak <Hedornak@aep.com> - Friday, January 11, 2002 at 14:16:52 (CST) send picture of sister :-) david <david_kloesel@hotmail.com> - Friday, January 11, 2002 at 09:23:55 (CST) I Never burn my clothes at the end. Cut them into strips and use em for crab bait. JOhn Ledbatter Lynchburg rangers <Johnmoretime@yahoo.com> - Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 12:33:20 (CST) In 1963, the first year of the race, it was covered by Life magazine. There has been many press stories. There are usually a few every year from some paper. PBS did a documentary some years back (I've never seen it though). In the early years there were cash prizes, beauty queens giving out kisses and posing with the winners, astronauts handing out prizes. It seems every year that either one of the Austin or SanAntonio TV stations sends a news crew to film the start. I've been involved with the race since 99 and have accumulated a number of past stories. I can only imagine what some of the old timers must have buried in their files. - I like Paul's answer better :) CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Thursday, January 10, 2002 at 02:19:40 (CST) I think it has to do with the odor of the Racers when they finally got to the Finish Line. This is also the reason why TCs rush the finishers to the showers and burn their clothes. Paul Ohlemacher <P_Ohle@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 16:08:00 (CST) i guess this might be a deadhorse issue around here, but since i'm new to the TWS and canoe racing i'm going to ask: why doesn't the TWS get similar TV coverage that the iditarod (sp?) dog slead race in alaska gets? i mean it could be covered the same way the slead race is. do some enterviews, develop the 'plot' lines, then show highlights of the leading teams at several points in the race. i presume someone in the past approached a network or two about producing a show? david kloesel <david_kloesel@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, January 09, 2002 at 14:00:25 (CST) WANTED: 2 person unlimited or C-2 to rent. Steve Daniel <sdaniel@zydecodevelopment.com> - Tuesday, January 08, 2002 at 14:28:47 (CST) I'm looking for a 3 man boat to run the pre races in this year. Doesn't need to be a safari boat. Cheap is the best factor as we just want to run the races and have fun. All opinions and suggestions are welcomed. Jeff Jouett <jj@visualcnc.com> - Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 18:08:13 (CST) The TWS Seminar is Saturday, March 16, 2002. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 12:02:47 (CST) Your Schedule of Events lists the TWS Seminar as Saturday, March 16. The TX Canoe Assn's Web Site lists it as Sunday, March 17. Which is it? Bob Brown <rdbrown@tamu.edu> - Wednesday, January 02, 2002 at 11:55:25 (CST) Speaking of DUCT TAPE . . . from the TexasBoars website: How to "HOG TIE" a pig ???? (ADVICE) . . they're using duct tape to HogTie feral hogs and wild boars... and we just thought it was for fixin race boats :) CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Saturday, December 29, 2001 at 11:23:11 (CST) In regards to the question about lights...based on advice from Roy Lewis (and my own experience in the Safari last year), an excellent system is to use the small, waterproof, lightweight, yet incredibly bright and powerful flashlights from Princeton Tec. Secure one of the flashlights (bring an extra in your gear bag just in case) to your bow with duct tape. As backup also wear one of their headlamps. Oh yeah, and don't forget the lithium batteries! One load of batteries should last about four to six hours. You can pick all of this up at R.E.I. Recommendaton on duct tape: use the "industrial" or "contractor" grade (available at Home Depot in many different colors) or the military "100 mile an hour" version (available at U.S. Cavalry). Tom Helm Tom Helm <tom.m.helm@bhpbilliton.com> - Saturday, December 29, 2001 at 10:31:12 (CST) Palmetto to Gonzo is whistle-clean. Big nasties gone! john <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Saturday, December 29, 2001 at 00:01:39 (CST) Barb and I are planning some training runs on the Safari Course and would enjoy comapny and help with our shuttle. The following is a schedule of the sections and dates we plan on paddling them. Dupont to Tivoli Jan. 5 Tivoli to Seadrift Jan. 6 Palmetto to Gonzales Jan.19 Luling to Palmetto Feb. 9 Victoria to Dupont Feb. 19 Cuero FM 236 to Victria Feb. 23 Staples to Luling March 17 Gonzales to Hochheim March 30 Hochheim to Cuero FM 236 April 13 We also need information on lighting. Could somone please tell me what is the best light and battery and where they can be purchased. Chris Gross <chris144@airmail.net> - Thursday, December 27, 2001 at 17:08:14 (CST) A GREAT Kayak Adventure Story !! If you go to the front page of today's: Galveston County Daily News http://galvestondailynews.com/index.lasso there is a great story about a fellow from Marble Falls who has been kayaking around the country. The photo is on the front of today's Daily news so it will probably be gone tomorrow but the story should remain in the archive for awhile. The story: http://galvestondailynews.com/report.lasso?wcd=5761 CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Thursday, December 27, 2001 at 11:45:16 (CST) Andrew and I are still looking for a used solo canoe or kayak for safari training. Let us know if you have anything. Thanks ~ Holly Holly Nelson <iloveTexas@juno.com> - Saturday, December 22, 2001 at 20:23:52 (CST) re: sugars. There was a little bit discussion about "simple sugars", "sugar myth" on WaterTribe discussion forum. Check archived forums: 8/21/01 "Update on Accelarade" Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 22:58:40 (CST) Can some one of our diet/fuel gurus (the Baker bros?, whomever) clarify for me. The common word is to avoid "simple sugars" for fuel. E-caps (highly respected products) was recently apologetic because they have not been able to eliminat ALL simple sugars from their fuel. Apparently the beef against "sugar" is that it converts too quickly into blood sugar/fuel. BUT, I read in The Glucose Index, which presents itself as authoritative, that sugar is not in fact such a villain. It is a "double chain..." They list all food groups, list sugar as digesting, ballpark, about as fast as whole wheat bread and oatmeal. Their big villains are potatoes, highly refined flour. My doctor, who does his homework, discussing diabetes, said the same thing. ?? John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, December 21, 2001 at 20:21:16 (CST) SOLO BOAT for rent - Three time finisher solo kayak for rent.(4th place solo unlimited in 1997 & 2000, 8th place solo unlimited in 2001) Includes boat, water jugs, light system, Course description booklet, Team Captain manual with maps, racer equipment list, Team Captain equipment list. Will rent from January 1, 2001 till right after 2002 race. $ 375.00. email for further details. Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Thursday, December 20, 2001 at 20:22:48 (CST) I am looking for a used canoe, for me and my wife. This will be our first Safari this coming year. Must be sound with no major repairs or leaks. Prefer something with slider seats. Need not be Safari ready. 512-787-7667 Scott Hensley <cshk998@yahoo.com> - Thursday, December 20, 2001 at 09:33:02 (CST) Desperately looking for an aluminum canoe. Anyone need to sell one? Please contact me at thezel@satx.rr.com. Tim <thezel@satx.rr.com> - Tuesday, December 18, 2001 at 19:46:13 (CST) Alumacraft Voayager Ultra-lite 4-sale. Not yet converted to slider seats, have a new safari project and must sell. All stock thwarts in place. Older boat but straight and no rivet leaks. 400$ Call 512-626-9814 Dee Tifany - Tuesday, December 18, 2001 at 12:06:40 (CST) Uh, I hope the thing about the stroke/technique is taken only for what it is intended, the sharing of modestly useful information. I discovered it 3 years ago, B.S. (Before Safari), when I had an old canoe, was taking courses in freestyle and whatnot, and was paddling nights on Town Lake. Then I found myself with a very old Safari alum. Refined The Stroke and still use it, to work on singleblading, up and down TL last night (tricky going into the wind!) John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Monday, December 17, 2001 at 14:52:48 (CST) A new stroke/technique? This may interest some of the aluminum/tandem paddlers. It seems that we have discovered a stroke/technique that enables us to paddle a Safari 17-foot aluminum boat, solo, without correcting strokes or ruddering or switching. Boat doesn?t zigzag. Obviously, it is a considerable relief not to have to switch every 2-3 strokes. We can go as far as we want, comfortably, from one side - 10 strokes, 50, 100, a mile, 10 miles - before we switch. Or switch every 10-20 strokes? Use only power strokes. I believe the book solution, literally (ACA, Red Cross, freestyle, gurus? books, at least when I took courses), teaches the use of the ?travelling C?, the ?J,? and ruddering, which are less efficient. Racers switch for the power, but in these boats, switching every 2-3 strokes gets to be a nuisance. The boats handle great, solo. If yr partner lives 200 miles away, or can?t make it or doesn?t show up for a training run you can get great workouts solo, make San Marcos to Staples in something over 3 hours. If yr partner goes down during Safari and you need to paddle the boat alone? How fast is the stroke? We don?t know. It is clearly a good cruising stroke. This is why we thought of the solo alum challenge race, to test the power/ efficiency of the stroke, altho I am not especially strong w singleblade. This event has been postponed until January. I plan to demo the stroke therein. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Sunday, December 16, 2001 at 14:37:55 (CST) The river is very beautiful right now, high and clear, but be very careful, especially around the low water crossings. Some of them that you can normally go under will decapitate you now. We've had a lot of rain. The flows on the San Marcos downstream from Cummings Dam and the Guadalupe are pretty high right now. For up to date flow info go to http://tx.waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/current?type=flow Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Sunday, December 16, 2001 at 01:26:18 (CST) Vance, You ask a great question and one that has been asked repeatedly by others since the completion of the race. Let me say this up front? the two races are entirely different animals and thus should not be compared to one another from an apples-to-apples standpoint. The TWS is a 260-mile non-stop ?canoe/kayak? race that tests the limits of human endurance and equipment. The Okefenokee Challenge is a 370-mile non-stop event with more of an ?Adventure Racing? flare and included two ocean/bay segments -start & finish- a 90-mile upstream section and a 40-mile overland portage. Due to the extremely low water conditions the level of difficulty rose by levels of magnitude. If it were not for the drought conditions the race would have been much easier. I?ve been fortunate enough to have competed and finished in both events. Both were difficult in their own ways and each presented a series of challenges that required resolutions based upon the race format, time frames and water conditions. The best way to ferret out the answer in your own mind is to join me on the starting line for next year?s Okefenokee Challenge! Hope to see you there. James H. "devo" DeVoglaer <jdevo@mindspring.com> - Saturday, December 15, 2001 at 03:00:16 (CST) Which race is tougher? Vance <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Friday, December 14, 2001 at 10:41:00 (CST) Marek: Make the trip to Texas! As Norm Thomas says, ?ain't no way you won't get some true Texas hospitality.? With that said, my wife and I would personally like to thank all the Safari folks -others as well-that followed the recent Okefenokee Challenge. You folks provided us with an incredible amount of pride and belonging to a wonderful paddling community. We are very grateful for your phone calls, emails, prayers and positive thoughts as the race went on. I am certainly proud to be a born and raised TEXAN! Overall the race was turned into an ordeal with drought conditions. I had a few personal injuries that didn?t help my time but as any TEXAN would say? quitting was never an option. Again, a huge heart felt THANK YOU to the TEXAS paddling community for all the support and encouragement provided. If ever the DeVoglaer family can do something for anyone in the community let us know. BTW: We are heading to TEXAS for a few weeks of training over the holidays. I?ll be bringing a couple of solo boats and hopefully picking up a new Tandem from Jack Spencer. Let me know if anyone plans on hitting the river! For those TEXAS Sea Kayaker?s: The WaterTribe is putting on the second annual Everglades Challenge on February 28th. It is a 260-270(?) mile non-stop event from Tampa Bay, Florida to Key Largo, Florida (all ocean stuff unless you sneak in/out of the intercostals waterway). If anyone is interested in doing the race?I?m rigging a boat for the run and will be paddling various sections of the course between now and race day. You are more than welcome to join me in getting ready for the event. James H. "devo" DeVoglaer 2001 TWS & Okefenokee Finisher James H. "devo" DeVoglaer <jdevo@mindspring.com> - Wednesday, December 12, 2001 at 18:48:10 (CST) Hey, Marek -- ya'll come on down -- ain't no way you won't get some true Texas hospitality ... Norm Thomas <nthomas90252@aol.com> - Wednesday, December 12, 2001 at 14:50:58 (CST) I am planning to travel from Colorado to San Marcos for Christmas/New Year to do some solo Safari training, however, I am concerned about recent high water levels. I am watching flow data and monitoring all available messages for potential hazards: Cummings Dam broken, Prarie Lea bridges gone, dangerous conditions at Ottine dam and probably any other dam. I am familiar only with a few easy parts of the Safari course: San Marcos - Westerfield, Cottonseed - Stapple (both upstream and downstream) and some 80 miles of Guadelupe river between Gonzales and Victoria (during the TWS 2001). Anybody is going to paddle during this time? Any advice or words of wisdoms? OK, I am already familiar with the most popular safari tip: "if you name is not ... or ... don't even think about it!". I am just buying GPS, so maybe I will have better chances at unknown parts of the river like vicinity of the Ottine dam.
Of course, I have tempting alternative plans for Christmas/New Year paddling. Plan B:
Colorado and Green Rivers in Canyonlands, UT
- no trees, no logjams, great photography. Plan C:
Dismal River in NE - a small challenging river in real
winter conditions (it would be interesting to test the Spencer Xtreme there).
However, it seems to be the only chance when I can manage to drag my team captain to TX before the Safari.
Happy Holidays to all of you RiverRats - May Santa bring you that shiny new race boat you've been dreamin' about :) - Jack & Debbie Krohn CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Tuesday, December 11, 2001 at 10:18:57 (CST) Spencer Three Man Safari Boat For Sale I hate to do it, but I have to part wirh this great boat. We are moving up to four man. It is Spencer built, with a carbon fiber/kevlarlayup per John Bugge specifications. The rudder assembly is polished stainless steel and aluminum. Comes with a Paula Goynes spray skirt,(the center hole may have to be altered...we moved the seat). It has finished one Safari but looks and handles like new. $3900 or best offer. Give me a call @ 512-357-2641 or E-mail @ talford.austin.rr.com Terry Alford <talford@austin.rr.com> - Monday, December 10, 2001 at 13:01:36 (CST) Re: Okefenokee Challenge. ManitouCruiser took the 2nd place followed by Sandpur. It seems that only three paddlers completed that race. Congratulations! DevoMan and other racers provided a lot of inspiration as well as motivation for paddle training even in winter conditions in Colorado. 
At least, after my recent paddling, I am confident that I can handle any snow or ice that may appear during the Safari... Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Monday, December 10, 2001 at 08:27:17 (CST) BEWARE !!! someone might try to sneak one of these in the Safari next year :) - A Honda powered kayak - http://www.powerkak.com/ CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Sunday, December 09, 2001 at 19:38:25 (CST) RE: Tom Pope 12-08-01, You are right Tom! It is never too early to start training. So I think Smitty and I will drive over to each checkpoint and build a fire for ya'll. Ted Slaughter <Tedtbsss@aol.com> - Sunday, December 09, 2001 at 18:18:03 (CST) Footnote: It turns out that, after our last favorable weather report from Okee organizer Steve Isaacs at noon, a serious wind/fog blew in. The Gulf leg became a matter of survival with a partial spray skirt, no visibility, full darkness setting in, and no more batteries. Sorry to hear about Meares -- he was doing great! John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Saturday, December 08, 2001 at 21:55:56 (CST) Okefenokee Update - "BwanaBill" Meares - Team: Persistence; We-no-nah Advantage; Fort Clinch: 12/3/01 4:30am; Traders Hill: 12/04/01 12:49am - Arrived on verge of hypothermia, shivering, wet from head to toe, but in good spirits. "freezing cold, wet, endless jungle. It doesn't get any better than this!" Fargo: 12/06/01 05:30pm "At last the water is going my way. I'm almost to Cedar Key." Suwannee River St.Pk.: Looked good, looked strong, but Chief convinced BwanaBill to stop at the race at 1:30 PM at Cone Bridge Road due to time constraints. ? Cedar Key: ? CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Saturday, December 08, 2001 at 20:39:14 (CST) Ditto, Devo. Norm Thomas <nthomas90252@aol.com> - Saturday, December 08, 2001 at 19:30:15 (CST) That's great Devoman!! You are a real inspiration. Seeing you in last year's safari and hearing about you in this race makes me want to get out and start shaping up for June, 2002. Tom Pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Saturday, December 08, 2001 at 02:05:22 (CST) Congratulations "DevoMan", what a way to Hammer it out!! Come on "BwanaBill" Meares !!! The other Safari Solo Crazy... - Go BwanaBill !!!! CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 18:56:51 (CST) CONGRATULATIONS, SAFARI JAMES DEVOMAN!! Pat, Jack & Mike Spencer <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 18:19:27 (CST) Devoman's performance in gatorland is enought to give all of us old safari fanatics the warm fuzzys plus tons of inspiration! YOU DA MAN! DEVO! Ted Slaughter <Tedtbsss@aol.com> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 18:17:42 (CST) CONGRATULATIONS Devo !!! Mike Shea - California <shea101@pacbell.net> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 17:52:08 (CST) James got in about 30 minutes ago. Came in strong. John <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 17:38:26 (CST) Okay! Steve Isaacs, the organizer, and Ms. D. and son had contact with James at Fowler's Bluff. A hug fm son and wife (permitted in this race). He is paddling strong. Still a ways to go. They expect him at 6p local. Weather is very nice. He has radio and homing device and the coast guard is standing by in case he did have problems. Steve expects 4 more boats to finish the race (Kreuger team, Bwana Bill Meyer (sp?) who is a Safari vet, and Joe Stoval(sp?). John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 12:41:35 (CST) Mercy! That is one tough race and Safari James is one totally tough dude! In case any of us are telepathic, let's concentrate really hard and send him ALL the POSITIVE ENERGY we can muster this whole day. Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 12:01:03 (CST) Okefenokee Update - From: Chief; Date: 12/7/01; Time: 9:09am; Comments - Devoman has reached the crossing of the Suwannee and US 19 at Fanning Springs. CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 11:54:39 (CST) DEVO UPDATE I JUST SPOKE TO HIM VIA HIS CELL PHONE. {9 30 AM HOUSTON TIME} HE'S STILL APROX. 30 MILES FROM THE GULF. HE SOUNDED A LITTLE SHAKY,BUT IN GOOD SPIRITS. HE KNOWS HE'S GETTING CLOSETO THE END. HE SAID,"I'M TAKING THIS DAMN THING HOME". AS JOHN STOCKWELL REPORTED, HE HAD A LITTLE TROUBLE LAST NIGHT,BUT FIXING TO HAMMER IT HOME. HE HAS A LOT OF RESPECT FOR THOSE WHO ARE RUNNING THIS RACE. I TOLD HIM TO PUT HIS HEAD DOWN AND BRING IT HOME. I ALSO TOLD HIM EVERYONE WAS THINKING OF HIM,, HE WAS NOT ALONE, AND HE WAS ONE TOUGH TOUGH HOMBRE. GRIP IT AND RIP IT DEVO MAN. RICHARD MILLER TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN <richetel@yahoo.com> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 09:52:09 (CST) Thanks, John Stockwell, for the "heads up" regarding Devo's status. And, YES, I just got off the phone with him and I can confirm that Devo IS TAKING IT HOME! His speed has picked up; 6 mph. Naturally, his body is pretty beat up especially the feet, hands and butt,...probably more than we can imagine. He will be HOME in a matter of hours. Mike Shea - California <shea101@pacbell.net> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 09:35:49 (CST) Just had a good talk with James, 9:15 a.m. Fla. time. He asked me to post this. He hammered for 2 days. Went into last night feeling good but hit stiff headwinds, slowed him to 2 mph. Turned over in some junk. Got wet, hopythermic. Built a fire and slept 3 hours. Feet are the size of a "goat's neck" one from sprained ankle other from blisters. Had to cut off his shoes with knife and wrap feet in duct tape. Cannot walk. Is crawling over sandbars pulling his boat with rope tied to waist. Hands are balls of duct tape but no problem holding a paddle. This, he said, "is not a race, it's survival!" HOWEVER, his voice, mind, and spirit are crystal clear, I could hear good blood sugars. He is currently at Hwy 19, 30 miles to coast, 50 to go (like between Victoria and Dupont?) and he is "hammering" is "bringing this baby home." He currently has his cell phone on, is trying to contact his wife (he and I have left messages, she kept a vigil with kids, is now commuting). Mike Shea, if u get this in time call him, I'm sure he would love it(prolly no one else. he said he loves us all/our support, but needs to keep hammering). (if anyone has Mike's #, pls call him and relay this). john stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 08:44:27 (CST) Weather report at Cedar Key: Winds calm at 0 mph!!!!!!! 64 realfeel temp!!!!! No mention of expected "weather!" GO, JAMES!!! John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 06:55:15 (CST) Do I correctly count 5 of 16 still in the race at Fargo? Only Devo recorded as clearing cp3, altho the race official may not have had time to drive back to recheck cp3 log. Maybe this morning? With luck, and if he didn't spend too much time communing w the Brontosauri, James could be at the Gulf about now (6a). Depending on weather conditions he may need to rest b4 tackling The Gulf. Lack of info about competition behind makes it extremely difficult for tactics and strategy. Could be at finish as early as 10a, with a "glassy bay," or... God knows when if the wind kicks up. John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, December 07, 2001 at 06:48:31 (CST) With all of us following Devoman's awesome performance, I'm amazed that no one has mentioned the message the paddlers were given at the start from the Florida Fish & Game Department. It sounded like the obligatory run-of-the-mill warning until it hit you with a BIG FINISH! Reprinted from the WaterTribe Discussion Forum: GATOR Warning! From: FLA Fish & Game Date: 12/3/01 Time: 12:53:48 AM I applaud the racers entering the upcoming event; however, please be on the alert for EXTREMELY DANGEROUS aligator conditions since December is prime breeding season. There have been 6 gator attacks (1 fatal) in the past 2 weeks in the Suwannee vicinity. Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 21:28:59 (CST) I just got a second call from Devo. He is 60 miles from the Gulf. I asked if he was going to sleep tonight and he said, "I'm taking this xxxx home!" Voice clear and focused. Spent an hour about 2a.m. wrestling with a nasty strainer, couldn't see in the fog. Watertribe.com reports that the Shorts dropped out maybe at checkpoint #2. Understand that "Sandspur" (Landick associate?) cleared cp2 17 hours behind Devo, is not yet reported to have cleared cp3 (there can be a delay in the reporting fm unmanned cp's.) John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 17:41:09 (CST) Thanks to all of you for sharing Devo's adventures with us. By the way, I don't know where the brontosaurus is from, but the monkeys are from that mile long monkey temple that's just upriver from Dupont Norm Thomas <nthomas90252@aol.com> - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 13:56:18 (CST) UPDATE: Suwannee River St.Pk.: 12/06/01 01:05:00 AM; Devoman takes the lead; DevoMan-"Upper Suwannee at night - brutal. Fix bayonets, break out your TOW." .. Suwannee River St.Pk.: 12/06/01 10:21:00 AM - Greyfox & 2Brave - Dropping out. They are okay.. CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 11:51:32 (CST) Devo told me prior to the race that he would call me when when he hit his low point or, maybe, more appropriately, the "high" point at which he was experiencing the most colorful, outrageous and intense hallucinations. He kept his word! I heard from him at 4:30 AM !!! His sounded giddy and slurred but certainly I sensed an incredible enthusiasm and steadfastness. More interesting was his description of what he was seeing at that very point. I can't repeat all of it, of course, but part of what he was seeing was a huge brontosouras with silver-backed monkeys jumping all over the dinosaurs back and head. While James was decribing this he was laughing, giggling and spewing out primeval screams and other animal-like sounds. Another point,...he mentioned that he was holding his butt together with a couple roles of duck tape; what a pretty sight to visualize. At the point he called, I believe he said he had about a 100 miles to go if I understood him right. Now, Devo is hunting down and communicating with pre-historic animals ! Mike Shea - California <shea101@pacbell.net> - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 10:05:14 (CST) I think it is Tony and Paul Short that are duking it out with Devo. I believe they are paddling together, but each in his own solo boat. Here's a little info about them. They are a father/son combo from Michigan. Tony has done the AuSable River Canoe Marathon 19 times. He started out racing in "The Marathon" in the late 70's when he was just 14 or 15 years old. Since then he has finished in 2nd place in The Marathon six times (1982-85, 87, and 2001). I haven't seen Paul much at races, but I know he is one of Tony's training partners. Dave Jensen <DFJensen@aol.com> - Thursday, December 06, 2001 at 00:54:13 (CST) I know you won't read this until your race is over, but I'm following your progress and wish you all the best. Keep cruising and go after first. Go James. Jeff Jouett <jj@visualcnc.com> - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 21:24:17 (CST) NEWS FLASH DEVO MAN IS BACK IN FIRST PLACE OVERALL. HIS WIFE SENT ME AN E MAIL STATING THAT SHE HAD SPOKE TO HIM AT ABOUT 2 30 PM TODAY {WEDNESDAY]. he looks terrible and shaky but is confident that he will finish and win overall. HE HAS ABOUT A 2 HR LIAD OVER THE NEAREST BOAT. HE HUNT'ED THEM DOWN. GET TOUGH DEVO MAN, ITS TIME TO SHUT THE DOOR ON THEM. GOOOO DUDE. RICHARD MILLER <richetel@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 16:58:14 (CST) More update info from the Okefenokee Challenge - ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ from: "Chief" (Steve Isaac) the race organizer - From: Chief's wife - Date: 12/3/01 - Time: 7:54:20am - Comments - Got everyone off okay and on time. Had a beautiful night, no wind. But the weather kicked up in the morning, wind about 15 knots, so they had a good windy crossing. Devoman was first off the beach followed very closely by the Short team. The chart will be updated this evening as several racers pass through the first check point (they are moving fast). ~~~~ From: Chief - Date: 12/4/01 - Time: 11:31:09am - Comments - Everyone that started the race at 4:30 AM yesterday got in last night. Devoman and Tony and Paul Short went on, everyone else camped for the night at Trader's Hill. Tony and Paul Short have the hot setup - they are inline skating the 40 mile portage, making about 10 MPH, and are currently in the lead. ..plan updates later in the day. ~~~~~~~~~~ From: Chief - Date: 12/4/01 - Time: 4:56:36pm - Comments - Race results updated at 4:30 PM. Devoman had a serious case of hypothermia last night. He knew he had to stop and make a fire, so he went into the woods for firewood and lost track of what he was doing. He was also sleep deprived, and woke up to find himself wandering in the woods without knowing why he was there. When he came to his senses, he got firewood, started a fire and roasted himself in front of the fire the rest of the night. But he was unable to get going again til 8:00 the following morning. He is now on the road, about 4-5 miles from Fargo - looking strong, looking good, in high spirits. But hypothermia cost him first place - he is now in second place. ~~~~~~~~~ From: Chief - Date: 12/4/01 - Time: 6:20:03 PM - Comments- As of 6:00 PM - Greyfox and 2Brave: 1st place overall 1st place team Devoman: 2nd place overall 1st place solo All other racers are still on the St. Mary's River, will go to portage tomorrow morning. CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 12:18:46 (CST) DEVO MAN HAS FALLEN INTO 2ND PLACE OVERALL AFTER 40MILE PORTAGE. HE HAS AN ANKLE SPRAIN AND A BUNCH OF BLISTERS,MANY OF THEM ARE OPEN. HE WAS ALSO SUFFERING FROM EXTREME CHILLS. BUT HE ONLY SPENT 20MIN AT THE CHECKPOINT WHICH WAS LESS THAN THE 1ST PLACE TEAM DID. HE'S APPROX. 5 AND HALF HRS BEHIND WITH 220 TO GO. HUNT'EM DOWN DUDE. HE'S STILL LEADING THE SOLO DIVISION. RICHARD MILLER <richetel@yahoo.com> - Wednesday, December 05, 2001 at 08:03:53 (CST) JAMES DEVOGLAER BLEW THRU THE FIRST CHEKPOINT OF THE OKEFENOKEE CHALLENGE WITH A 29 MIN. LEAD OVER THE NEAREST BOAT. HE'S IN THE LEAD AFTER 9HRS 10MIN GO DEVO MAN. RICHARD MILLER TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN richard miller <richetel@yahoo.com> - Monday, December 03, 2001 at 18:58:09 (CST) 2001 Texas Water Safari Race From the Eyes of Team Battle Cruiser Assistant Captain 10-year-Old Kathryn Mendenhall an amazing Diary of the race by a 10 year old daughter, whom it is noted has been in training since, to race in the 2002 Race, hoping to break the record of being the youngest person to finish the race racing tandem with her dad. check it out> http://pages.prodigy.net/the.mendenhalls/kathryn.htm Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Saturday, December 01, 2001 at 09:49:40 (CST) SOLO BOAT for rent - Three time finisher solo kayak for rent.(4th place solo unlimited in 1997, 2000, 8th place solo unlimited in 2001) Includes boat(17'1" 58 lbs), double blade paddle, water jugs, light system, Course description booklet, Team Captain manual with maps, racer equipment list, Team Captain equipment list. Will rent from January 1, 2002 till right after 2002 race. $ 370.00 email for further details. Thomas L. Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Saturday, December 01, 2001 at 09:26:09 (CST) Hello racers, I just got word from Alan Cummings (of Cumming's Dam) that a hole has blown out (probably the wood boards) in the middle of the dam. That would explain yesterday's e-mail from the fellow who said the lake was below normal. I was trying to figure that one out... Anyway, Alan says that the whole river is going through the hole and that the lake is dropping fast. And that he doesn't think that going through the hole would be a wise option (sounds like a permanent strainer). The banks are very muddy and he's not sure how possible the portage is going to be either. Jay Daniel is in the area and I've gotten in touch with him. He's going to take a look at the dam and make a decision regarding tomorrow's solo race real soon. In the meantime, be careful out there. And if you're going to spend the night in San Marcos tonight, come by and see Bethlehem. We're in the little grove of pecan trees at the downstream end of City Park. Duane TeGrotenhuis is the Innkeeper (he ain't got any rooms left, but he will sell you a turkey leg) and he and I are stars in the play that starts at 8 p.m. See ya there. Tom Tom Goynes <goynes@centurytel.net> - Friday, November 30, 2001 at 13:02:08 (CST) In the event you did not already know,... I wanted to inform you that James DeVoglaer, AKA Devo-Man, AKA Safari-James, AKA Devo-Maniac, AKA Devo-My-Friend, is racing the Okefenokee Challenge in Florida starting December 3rd. This adventure/survival race is a totally unsupported race of 370 miles of swamps, portages, rivers and bays (no team captains; no water hand-offs, etc).Devo will probably be mad at me for bringing attention to him via this posting but what is important to me is to recognize a "WINNER" with such exceptional sportsmanship conduct akin to the class-acts in Texas that I have evidenced and have so respected over the many years of my participation in the GREAT Texas Water Safari race! I am grateful of my "yearly humbling". Keep an eye on Devo for he will "hunt 'em down" even if the prey is a figment of his imagination. Happy Holidays !!! Mike Shea California AKA "The SheaDog" Mike Shea - California <shea101@pacbell.net> - Wednesday, November 28, 2001 at 21:53:23 (CST) We're looking to buy a decent solo canoe or mid-size kayak for safari training. Low price is a major concern here. The boat should be light enough for one person to load and unload from the car (I guess this means about 50lbs or less). If you have one, let us know at either ilovetexas@juno.com or kc5sra@wt.net. - Holly & Andrew Nelson -- "the kids in the Silver Bullet" Holly Nelson <ilovetexas@juno.com> - Monday, November 26, 2001 at 19:46:52 (CST) FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR #9 02' The Luckenbach Year Jack Monnaco - Monday, November 26, 2001 at 13:59:56 (CST) HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO ALL AND TO ALL A HAPPY THANKSGIVING. GOOD LUCK AND SEE U ON THE RIVER RICHARD MILLER TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN <richetel@yahoo.com> - Thursday, November 22, 2001 at 15:51:08 (CST) Does anybody have any experience paddling the Wenonah Escape Ultralight canoe? I am considering purchase for recreational paddling, racing and perhaps the Safari. Also any thoughts on Kevlar vs Graphite composite for hulls as far as overall toughness, repairability etc. RD Kissling <rdkissling@aol.com> - Thursday, November 22, 2001 at 09:52:09 (CST) RE: wing paddles in the Safari. I've completed two Safari's with wings: one time with a four person mixed team and another in a light, fast, tippy solo boat. Bottom line: I wouldn't recommend the wing for team paddling, but it was a great solo paddle, combined with a single blade. I think the wing has so much grab, that it really brings out the differences in individual power, therefore a wing can make team members tired on a greater variance than an Epic, for instance. Or I just may be spewing crap. I'd recommend the Quickblade Proton, for a well trained soloist who doesn't need to brace or draw very often. That's my story and I'm sticking to it. --West West <west@jump.net> - Sunday, November 18, 2001 at 23:24:52 (CST) Did anyone comment on this year's TCRA cleanup? Some of our very serious racers showed, along with us other assorted paddlers and riverrats. It was a good feeling, to leave a section of the river whistle clean, at least for the moment. This is a good thing. John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> USA - Friday, November 16, 2001 at 18:35:11 (CST) Two paddlers from California are making the trip to Texas to paddle on the TWS course on Nov 22-25. Locals are welcome to join us on the water. We will mostly be in solo unlimited boats, but are open to paddling other boat types as well. Feel free to e-mail me to set something up. Dave Jensen <DFJensen@aol.com> - Thursday, November 15, 2001 at 23:27:35 (CST) Re: wing paddles. I guess that asking about paddles I should specify what boats I am paddling: (1) Spencer solo Extreme for the safari, (2) a fast sea kayak (21"x19.5') for my photo paddling trips in southwest and perhaps some 10 mile races on the Colorado River next year (that Colorado in Colorado...), (3) Seawind, expedition decked canoe, is doing just fine under canoe paddle. Currently, as a kayak paddle, I am using Lightning Ultralite (carbon paddle with white blades for visibility purchased from Mariner Kayaks). Thanks for all comments I've got so far. They would indicate that safari paddlers do not use wing paddles except some extremists ... (and/or winners like "Devo"). Epic Wayfarers seem to be the most popular. I still would like to get some comments whether less stiff shaft makes a wing paddle easier for shoulders to use for long distance paddling. Marek, for very lightweight wing paddles there are two good choices: Epic paddles and Quickblade paddles http://www.quickbladepaddles.com/. I own and use both brands. Both paddles weigh about 22 oz. The finish is prettier on the Epic paddles but I prefer the Quickblades for two reasons 1) simplicity of design, the Quickblade take-apart and length adjustment system is simple but fool-proof and 2) cost: about $285 vs. $400 plus for an Epic. Epics are top quality and you pay for it...but I have never heard or experienced any complaints about Quickblade products. For sprint paddling you'll want the LARGEST rather than the smallest paddle that you can pull. For marathon you'll want a medium ot smaller size blade. For sprint, if you are large and strong your choices are the Epic Excaliber II or the Quickblade Tiger Claw. For marathon, choose the Epic Excaliber II Mid with the reinforced tip or the Quickblade Newtron or Proton. All that said, I wouldn't recommend a wing blade unless you plan to paddle a narrow racing type kayak. For sea-kayak or Texas Water safari type boats with a wider beam, I would recommend a touring/racing type paddle such as a Lighting Safari model, Epic Wayfarer, Descente italia or Lendal Powermaster or Lendal Archipelago. Unless you can catcch the blade vertically and in close to the hull as you can in a racing kayak, the benefit of the wing blade is lost. Lee Deviney Lee Deviney <txpaddler@aol.com> - Wednesday, November 14, 2001 at 23:18:02 (CST) Of course the greatest double blade to ever grace the TWS is the PowerMaster used presently by Polecat of the Cowboys. Heft, strength, scoopiness, "retro" stylings, it has it all. Liam Price <Liam.Price@Netmanage.com> - Wednesday, November 14, 2001 at 15:56:51 (CST) Wing paddles! I would appreciate any tips on selecting a wing paddle for a long distance/safari paddling. I am just looking at options offered for Epic eXcalibur paddles. I am sure I need a smaller blade than for sprint paddling, so eXcalibur mid or maybe even Jr. Standard stiff shaft or rather medium flex shaft? Marathon option? Extra reinforcement in the tip area for durability when paddling on shallow rivers (about 1 ounce heavier). Any reasonable sources for wing paddles cheaper than Greg Barton creations? Living in northern Colorado I am rather limited to internet/mail orders (yes, I've checked 1998 article on racing paddles by Lee Deviney in tips section). What paddles are the most popular among safari paddlers? Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Tuesday, November 13, 2001 at 18:22:30 (CST) WTB: used carbon canoe paddle Jimmy Harvey <alered01@flash.net> - Monday, November 12, 2001 at 22:14:44 (CST) A big thanks to Bob Spain for taking the time this past weekend to provide a Canoe Racing Instruction course at AOGG. My experience in competitive sports is that one-on-one competent instruction is often costly and difficult to find. He essentially provided his racing experience free of charge and that is unique. Great to have someone of his ability available to assist newbies. Henry Dornak <hedornak@aep.com> - Monday, November 12, 2001 at 17:07:10 (CST) Thomas, the niterider system I used was a bike system. Yours sounds like a better and different system. mike mike stinson <stinsonmike@hotmail.com> - Monday, November 12, 2001 at 14:26:42 (CST) I don't know what Niterider light you guys have used in the past. But the one I have is the Niterider Dive Pro. It has two lights in the housing, holding a 4 watt and a 10 watt bulb, You can switch between the two or use both, it's water proof to 300 feet (not that I'm going to test it). Will it perform? Last night at 11:30 pm I was out on the lake up in a cove, I with the same battries that I tested it with (these have been going 14 hrs +) I was able to easily see the shore with detail trees and bushes at close to 100 yards in front of me. It performs alot better than my light last year and seems to be more dependable. Thomas Lee Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Monday, November 12, 2001 at 10:37:25 (CST) AHHHH DEVO MUST BE REFERING TO THE TINY GREMLINS THAT LIVE ON THE LOWER RIVER. THEY SIT ON YOUR SHOULDER AND TALK IN YOUR EAR, THEY SIT IN THE SEAT NEXTO YOU, THEY RUN DOWN THE BANKS NEXT TO YOU,THEY APPEAR IN GREEN SHROUDED TREES THAT APPEAR SUDDENLY IN FRONT OF YOU. I'M GOING TO TRY TO CAPTURE ONE OF THEM THIS YEAR. I HEAR THEY WILL GRANT YOU 3 WISHES IF YOU CATCH ONE AND LET IT GO. RICHARD MILLER TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN richard miller <richetel@yahoo.com> - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 12:37:00 (CST) If you enjoy paddling in solitude? the front of the pack is the place to be! After the start you will see very few boats on the water. I did have plenty of company during the safari, however, they did not join me until Victoria. By the time I reached Tivoli there were too many to fit in my boat and most didn?t want to paddle anyway! Besides, I was all talked out by that time. James H. ?devo? DeVoglaer 2001 TWS Finisher James H. "devo" DeVoglaer <Jdevo@mindspring.com> - Saturday, November 10, 2001 at 05:57:15 (CST) John Stockwell's message reminds one to be careful what you say on the river. I think the back of the pack is friendly because that is where I paddle. Ginger can keep up with the front and she says they are great. Maybe I can quit fooling around during the race and get in the middle and see how they are. Many a time the cowboys have saved me on the river ( don't tell anyone -you'll ruin their reputation) not to mention just getting me into a long boat in the first place. (I'm supposed to thank them for that? ) Anyway it is a great community surrounding the safari and I am glad to be a part of it- front or back of the pack. See you on the river. Jackie jackie cole <jcolevet@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 20:21:19 (CST) Vance I asked this same question in a post april 30 2001. Every response I had was positive for installing the rudder. You would be in the tandem unlimited instead of c-2. We did install it and finished the safari in good form for our first time. You will conserve a lot of energy by doing it. You can spend more of your energy in forward strokes instead of steering strokes. In the tandem unlimited, you can also take a double blade paddle. I was able to steer in the front with the double blade paddle, while my partner could rest a while in the back. With the double blade you use a different set of muscles, so it gives a little bit of a break to your normal paddling muscles. Don't depend on double paddles only though, they may tend to wear you out with prolonged use. With no rudder, you will be in a smaller division(c-2) so you might be able to place better in your division. But there are some tuff and very experienced paddlers in that division. tom pope <tom_r_p@lycos.com> - Tuesday, November 06, 2001 at 01:27:44 (CST) Please tell me the pros & cons of putting a rudder on my 18.5' Cruiser. Vance Jones <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Monday, November 05, 2001 at 22:14:49 (CST) I have used the niterider light and find that you have to run it on full power for safari use. You only get about 4 hours of use per 5 batteries on full power and the batteries are very difficult to change. For the cost and weight of the system I could not recommend it. mike stinson <stinsonmike@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 10:02:58 (CST) San Marcos Clean-up this weekend! Join the TCRA in their annual fall clean up. Meet at Palmetto State Park at 8:30AM to arrange shuttles. We will clean our adopted section from Luling City Park to Palmetto State Park. It's a fun day for everyone and you can go home feeling you contributed to the river we all love. Bring boat, paddles, PFDs, snacks, water, etc. I will be providing food after the clean up. Hope to see you there! Ginger Turner, Texas Canoe Racing Association Conservation Chair Ginger Turner <gingerct@juno.com> - Wednesday, October 31, 2001 at 09:27:10 (CST) Thomas. If I read the litwerature right on the Niterider system you show you get 13 hours at 4 watts is that correct? If you run the 10 watt your time is cut in half? 4 watts seems a pretty dull light for most paddlers. 10 watts would be OK but with 20 batteries for two nights. Jay Daniel <jhdaniel@sbcglobal.net> - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 22:04:47 (CST) Check out this light for safari. http://www.niteriderdive.com/alkaline.htm I got one at a local dive shop for $168.78 and it works better than advertised. It is brite for the 13 hrs as advertised, has option of 4 to 14 watts of light, uses 5 "D" cells batteries. Thomas Lee Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Tuesday, October 30, 2001 at 14:34:14 (CST) Thought some people might be interested to know that there will be a Canoe Racing Instruction Course given on November 9th and 10th. The classroom portion is on the 9th from 6pm to 9pm at Austin Outdoor Gear and Guidance, 3411 North IH-35 in Austin. The on the water instruction is the next day on Town Lake from 9am to 5pm. Bob Spain will be giving the course. $35.00 course fee. To reserve a spot, contact AOGG at 512-473-2644. Thought some of us slowpokes might find this beneficial. Darryl Jiral - Monday, October 29, 2001 at 14:09:31 (CST) We did not find a pair of Adidas running shoes, but there was a pair of men's size 10 Brooks shoes left in the pavillion area after the triathlon. Call Spencer's if the Brooks shoes are yours. Ginger Turner <gingerct@juno.com> - Monday, October 29, 2001 at 13:06:35 (CST) Lost: 1 pair of Adidas running shoes, and 1 Russell long sleeve white polypro shirt (it probably doesn't smell very good...). They were last seen in the middle of the bike transition area on the ground at the Martindale Triathlon. I appreciate any info on their whereabouts. Please email me at chuck_stewart@yahoo.com, or call me at 210-690-4977 if you have seen them. Thanks, Chuck Chuck Stewart <chuck_stewart@yahoo.com> - Sunday, October 28, 2001 at 17:03:02 (CST) I'm looking to purchase a kayak. If you have one for sale please contact me. Eric Torberson <erictorberson@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, October 24, 2001 at 20:08:52 (CDT) re: John Stockwell's comment on pumps. That last 1/2 inch of water is hell to remove. One thing that works is to place a pump at either (or both if you can stand the weight) of the canoe then slide the end member to that pump and wait a couple minutes for all the water to go there. This is the only way I have ever been able to completely empty a canoe. Downside is you have to run out of trim for that time. Ted Slaughter <Tedtbsss@aol.com> - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 20:48:34 (CDT) Has anyone seen the river downstream from Palmetto State park since the Safari? I'm paddling that stretch this weekend and I'm wondering if those jammers are still there. Vance Jones <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Monday, October 22, 2001 at 19:57:44 (CDT) If I may. Jackie Cole, who certainly paid her dues to learn how to finish Safari, told us early on that back in the pack Safarists (finishers) are friendlier/more helpful. This is NOT to say that the "competitors" are NOT friendly. But, they work under incredible, relentless stress, trying to get down the river in the top 10 or top 15. It's remarkable how helpful, what good sports they are, considering. And, it goes with the game that they have been known to throw in a little gamesmanship (this is not aimed at the finishers, it's trying to get/hold an edge on their competition). Ergo, I know better than anyone in the world that I've had 3 teeth-gnashing learning experiences with no finish. Have trained year round for 3+ years. River ratting most weekends--the training is fun/Safari is an ordeal. People have helped me. The Seminar is intended to educate -- Safari is grueling and can be dangerous. I enjoy sharing, and giving a little back. John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Saturday, October 20, 2001 at 11:16:10 (CDT) Bob, I have no idea if this is of sufficient interest to post on the permanent Tips side. Another way to pump more water out of the boat: The 500 gallons/hour Rhule pump empties our boats in a minute or 2 but leaves 3/8-1/2 inch of water spread over the bottom of the boat. One gal = 8 lbs. 2 gals = ? that rolls back and forth and affects stability. It takes prohibitive time to dump it on the side, or sponge it out (which some do.) We try to minimize this by cutting down the base plate of the pump. This works...sometimes. I tried it 2x, one of those it didn't work so good and effectively I just ruined the (base plate of) the pump. Foot pumps, with a flattened-pipe intake can take the water down lower. Probablem is, they take A LOT longer to empty the boat (at a couple of tablespoons per pump). I recently saw a newish boat that had both a foot and an electric pump (running the weight up). Instead of throwing out my Rhule-with-the-bad-base-plate, we began to think of how we might connect it with aluminum pipe that could be flattened at the end to pull the water down LOW in 1-2 minutes. This would entail getting a pipe/tube that would fit and seal into the intake hole in the bottom of the pump -- not likely to be easy. Then, we figured out how, borrowing from Jack Spencer's paint-brush-standing-in-epoxy paperweight. Find or make a cylinder that is the same diameter as the Rhule pump. A plastic glass or tin that matches the diameter of the pump. Or make one of a sheet of whatever. Seal the bottom of this "form". Stand the pipe in it and pour epoxy around it. This gives you a section of pipe with an epoxy base plate the diameter of the pump. Seal it to the bottom of the pump with goop and then duct tape. The section of pipe can be bent, or the pump can work from its side. The old hands cover the intake with a spread of screen (rust proof) attached to the bottom of the boat so the May flies are not so likely to clog the intake/pump. Luck, all. John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Saturday, October 20, 2001 at 10:51:45 (CDT) David, that is too funny! Anyone have a cheap solo boat for sale? I'm still looking. Jeff <jj@visualcnc.com> - Friday, October 19, 2001 at 17:26:53 (CDT) Is this what the start of the 2002 Texas Water Safari will look like?  http://www.geocities.com/team_tieguys/tws2002.jpg ??? david kloesel <david_kloesel@hotmail.com> - Friday, October 19, 2001 at 12:48:42 (CDT) Speaking as a Novice preparing for the 2002 TWS, the veteran advice is readily forthcoming, insightful and appreciated. And as James Devoglaer mentions in the 2001 TWS video by Pat Gunn, some of the information has definitely worked for us already in training and the races. Even with a EE background, the numerous articles on lights have been very thorough. Thanks. Henry Dornak III <hedornak@aep.com> - Tuesday, October 16, 2001 at 17:24:03 (CDT) Jay's article on lights is authoritative, and well written. He has in-depth Safari experience, plus boatbuilding, plus rigging lights professionally for Safarists. Literally, a pro who is willing to share information. We should all appreciate, and applaud. There is little question that a novice's best solution is to rent or buy a system from Jay, Jack Spencer, John Bugge, or one of the others. It is amazing how well lights can work in yr living room, and... John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Monday, October 15, 2001 at 20:44:36 (CDT) Still More ! I just posted another excellent article on Safari Lights on the tips page ( http://ops.tamu.edu/x075bb/safari/tips.html). This one was written by Jay Daniel of Rainmaker Canoes. Highly 'enlightening'. [grin] As always, we love those contributions of tips and advice ! Bob Brooks <kayaker@tamu.edu> - Tuesday, October 09, 2001 at 20:40:08 (CDT) I just posted another article from John Stockwell on the 'Tips' webpage: http://ops.tamu.edu/x075bb/safari/tips.html Always happy for all contributions designed to help along the novice or advanced Safarier.... Any one care to comment on boat outfitting ? What to eat ? What to wear ? Training tips or paddling style ? Please send contributions to me: Bob Brooks <kayaker@tamu.edu> - Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 22:55:11 (CDT) I sent Bob Brooks a short piece on kneeling/Safari to post under Safari Tips. Good luck, all. John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Thursday, October 04, 2001 at 22:31:03 (CDT) Plans for the 2002 TWS are for a start at Aquarena Springs. We've reserved the Pecan Grove and the big tent for Friday check-in and Saturday morning. Thanks to Deborah Lane (soon to be Mrs. Fred Mynar) for all her help in park arrangements. Any changes in these plans will be posted on the webpage. The new brochure should be finalized and available here or by mail soon. See ya'll at the races. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Wednesday, October 03, 2001 at 20:40:58 (CDT) Since the fence is down and the dam has been rebuilt, will the 2002 safari begin at Aquarena Springs? Vance <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, October 03, 2001 at 12:36:14 (CDT) I am curious how solo (unlimited) safari remove water from their boats. Self bailers? Electric pumps? Could you share your experience? Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Wednesday, October 03, 2001 at 10:43:21 (CDT) I am selling a tandem unlimited wood strip boat with kevlar exterior, slider seats, rudder pedals, electric pump, not skirted or snapped. Completely ready to paddle. Built in 1997 for the Safari by Steppe/Bain. Stored indoors or garage. Design is similar to a Spencer Extreme. Easily singled or doubled. Ready to rig for Safari. Weighs approximately 40-45 pounds. Never wrapped or wrecked. I listed it on the billboard earlier this summer and received soem inquiries, but our e-mail system lost them so I cannot get back with the people who were interested. If you have any interest, send me an e-mail and I can give you more information and can e-mail you pictures of it. I bought it for $1,900 last fall. I am willing to negotiate somewhat on the price. Paul Solomon <Solozone@aol.com> - Sunday, September 30, 2001 at 19:28:50 (CDT) How much would it cost to sponsor a Solo & Tandem kayak catagory for the TWS, does anyone have an idea? I've done the race for four years now in a kayak and would like to see a catagory for kayaks. No deminision rules, rudder rules, just a hard covered boat, with person sitting below water line, A Kayak? Thomas L. Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Sunday, September 30, 2001 at 12:51:11 (CDT) I'm looking for a cheap solo canoe. I want one to train in and to possibly run the pre-safari races in. It doesn't need to be safari ready. Don't know if it matters, but I'm 6'-3" 185 lbs. If you have a boat you are interested in getting rid of, give me a shout. Jeff Jouett <jj@visualcnc.com> - Friday, September 28, 2001 at 12:03:03 (CDT) FOR SALE: Shuttle vehicle of champions. 1995 Dodge Caravan, V6, privacy glass (good for changing clothes), yakima roof racks, CD/tape, electric locks, cold AC and overhead paddle storage. This multiple record holder has carried Carriere and Cochran, the likes of Landick, various Vincents, some Stewart and many Mynars. Asking price $3000.00 Respond via e-mail or telephone: (512) 834-4336 John Dunn <sidereal@mail.utexas.edu> - Tuesday, September 25, 2001 at 11:22:33 (CDT) We had a great race today. 55 boats started and 54 finished. Results will be posted on the webpage in the next couple of days. Thanks to all who came to race and all who helped. See ya'll at the races. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Saturday, September 15, 2001 at 22:24:41 (CDT) Sorry to get this out so late but we were caught unaware about the gate being closed at City Park. You can park at lot 14 (Strahan) parking lot and all along the road going into the park. We are setting up registration at the Outdoor Center at Strahan (you'll be able to see us if you drive up to the gate at City Park). Tina Carter at SWT is allowing us to use their facilities (restrooms!!!) and grounds and put in at Sewell Park. They don't ticket cars on Saturday or tow on Saturday so you should be ok to park there on Saturday. But if you leave your car there overnight it might not be there anymore. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Friday, September 14, 2001 at 19:12:02 (CDT) The Jr. TWS starts at 9:00 a.m. TOMORROW, Saturday, with registration earlier I would guess... You might try parking and putting in at the city park down by Rio Vista dam on the west side of the river. You could then paddle the short distance up to the start, etc. Or try the little road off CM Allen Parkway (between Cheatham and San Antonio Streets) next to the railroad bridge that goes back to another part of the park and river. Should be less traffic there than in the downtown parade area or on University Ave.....maybe. Good luck in the water too! Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Friday, September 14, 2001 at 18:36:47 (CDT) I should have mentioned in my previous posting that there is also a parade downtown on Saturday morning. The parade starts at 0900. I would be a good idea to get an early start. Good luck, scott. Scott Johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Friday, September 14, 2001 at 14:21:51 (CDT) Does anyone know what time registration and the race starts on Sunday for the Junior Safari? Tom Pope <tpope@co.hays.tx.us> - Friday, September 14, 2001 at 12:12:17 (CDT) Regarding the Junior Safari: The gate at the end of Bobcat Drive (at the entrance to city park) is closed due to to its proximity to the National Guard Building. Rodney Cobb, Director of San Marcos parks said today that the gate will remain closed until the National Guard says that it can be opened. This means (most likely) that everyone will have to park and unload at the Strahan Coliseum parking lot and carry their stuff over to the river. I guess it will be good for getting the blood flowing. Scott Johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Friday, September 14, 2001 at 10:30:07 (CDT) Is the Jr. Safari still on for this weekend? Jerry Brown <jsbrown15@home.com> - Thursday, September 13, 2001 at 18:32:39 (CDT) Pat, it's great to hear that the video is ready, but unfortunately I may not be able to order one this year. I fear that the Polecat shots may give me flashbacks to the 254 miles that I had to paddle with his rump staring me right in the face! I still wake up screaming some nights in a cold sweat and I'm already shuddering at the thought of seeing it again. Possum Belly <dupont@dhlanalytical.com> - Tuesday, September 11, 2001 at 07:15:14 (CDT) The video of the 2001 SAFARI IS FINISHED, finally FINISHED, really FINISHED, and WAS FINISHED at 4:02am 9/9/01 and no one is happier about it than I. It's always been a labor of love, but 700 hours is too much love. I'd rather have money to help cover the expense of my mental health specialist and equipment. The video might be pretty good, but no one has seen it yet...I saw the whole thing for the first time today so you'll have to take my word for awhile that it's pretty good, but, who cares by now.....it is FINISHED. Details will be at http://members.thegateway.net/pgunnsco/ soon....I think. Reviews will be out shortly as soon as I start mailing out advance orders and finish negotiating with Hollywood and Broadway. Think you guys will have to play yourselves because no one else would be believable...It's 2:33 so remember that's what the FF (fast forward) button on your remote is for... so you can go really fast through the parts where you are not visible and the parts where Polecat provides new meaning for "Flasher." First mail-outs go to the videographers and others who helped me, but I should be mailing orders out by the end of the week. Thanks for waiting and thanks in advance for sending me all the money you were saving for Christmas. Don't forget it makes a marvelous gift. I almost guarantee it will make your wedding anniversary a memorable occasion that your wife will never, ever let you forget. Pat Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Monday, September 10, 2001 at 20:27:05 (CDT) re: safari canoe builders. You can find some links on these pages: http://ops.tamu.edu/x075bb/safari/contacts.html to Spencer Canoes and Rainmaker Canoes I am trying to find someone who builds canoes for the TWS. Would someone give me names and phone numbers or e-mail address. Thanks Jim jim cook <jimpilot @sharq.net> - Sunday, September 09, 2001 at 22:15:22 (CDT) Junior Texas Water Safari Shuttle - Looking to share shuttle for this week ends Jr. Safari. I have double tandem canoe rack that could be left @ Staples for return to San Marcos after race. If interested, email asap to coordinate efforts. Buck Sheward #5193 Buck Sheward <smallbiz@wt.net> - Sunday, September 09, 2001 at 21:26:48 (CDT) Looking for used recreational kayak, so if you want to clean out your garage and need the space drop me an e-mail. preferable around the Austin area. thanx max moreno <mmoreno@ctesc.net> - Sunday, September 09, 2001 at 11:17:17 (CDT) Roy Lewis dug up Brad Tyer's GREAT article about the 99 race from The Houston Press' archieves. It's one of the best Safari articles I've ever read. Thanks Roy and Thanks Brad for such a "Gnarly" article. - - http://www.houstonpress.com/issues/1999-07-01/feature2.html/page1.html CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Saturday, September 08, 2001 at 13:41:42 (CDT) Chek out this web page, is defines a Soloist racer on the Safari http://pages.prodigy.net/the.mendenhalls/A_Soloist_web.htm Thomas Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Tuesday, September 04, 2001 at 22:01:21 (CDT) Did I mention how magnificant that eagle was? Vance <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Saturday, September 01, 2001 at 21:29:29 (CDT) My friend and I saw a Bald Eagle on the river today, somewhere between 1979 and 1977. It was a magnificant site, keep your eyes peeled!! Vance Jones <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Saturday, September 01, 2001 at 21:21:49 (CDT) I have a Sawyer fiberglass two seater canoe for sale. It's an old canoe but it's still in good shape. Someone once told me that it's a racing canoe, all I know is that it's very fast compared to your typical flat bottom canoe. It's also fairly wide, so it can hold a lot of gear. I live in Northeast Houston (New Caney) if anyone wants to see it. If interested you can e-mail me at gmaj@chevron.com or call me at: Work: 713-754-5324 (days) Home: 281-399-0335 (evenings or weekends) Greg Majkrzak Greg Majkrzak <gmaj@chevron.com> - Thursday, August 30, 2001 at 10:00:48 (CDT) Jack, I am interested in the layup options for a Safari X-treme. Anyone with carbon fiber paddles that they no longer need, let me know. Thanks. Henry Dornak III <hedornak@aol.com> - Wednesday, August 29, 2001 at 08:58:08 (CDT) Are there any barbed wire fences anywhere across or near the safari course?
I just run into one at night on the Dismal River in Nebraska last weekend. Not a pleasant experience! I would
really prefer the electric one. Where Phil Gumbert had
a meeting with his fence? Thanks... That's gives some breathing room... Paul Ohlemacher <P_Ohle@yahoo.com> - Monday, August 27, 2001 at 11:13:00 (CDT) paul, the cut-off is for reaching martindale FM 1979 not FM 1977 at staples. by the way, i'm still looking to share a shuttle this weekend for a training run. anyone interested? e-mail me if so. david kloesel <david_kloesel@hotmail.com> - Monday, August 27, 2001 at 10:38:25 (CDT) Am I reading the entry form to the Jr right? It says race starts at 9 and the cut off is 12... That's three hours and that seems a little short to me. Paul Ohlemacher <P_Ohle@yahoo.com> - Monday, August 27, 2001 at 09:55:01 (CDT) Hey, Abdul; Wang's looking for you. Norm (CPFOW - Close Personal Friend Of Wang) <nthomas90252@Aol.com> - Monday, August 27, 2001 at 08:07:43 (CDT) Sorry folks, the guy from ESPN2 who there filming at 2001 TWS gave me the time and date. I watched from 10:30 to 11:30 and no film. ray <raypaul@tca.net> - Saturday, August 25, 2001 at 20:08:04 (CDT) Wang, I'll just take the fruit basket. Thanks, Liam Liam Price <Liam.Price@Netmanage.com> - Saturday, August 25, 2001 at 15:20:45 (CDT) Wang, I'll be competing in 2002. Could you build me a 17 foot aluminum canoe equiped with a wine shelf, fruit basket and a few holiday ornaments? All under 60lbs of course. Thanks, scott. Scott Johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Friday, August 24, 2001 at 11:02:06 (CDT) Well, finally; Wang and Brody, we've been looking all over for you, wher've y'all been? Don't be strangers now, hear? Does anybody out there know of some program that could automatically help our poor web site master and keep these utterly fascinating bits of international doggeral off of our beloved bulletin board ? God Bless you in advance Norm (close personal friend of Wang and Brody) <nthomas90252@aol.com> - Friday, August 24, 2001 at 10:01:12 (CDT) Put your canoe in a pool and put a bugee cord on the front and back of your canoe, get a portable cd player and spend a couple of hours a day in it. Boring as hell but it is about the best you can do. mike stinson <stinsonmike@hotmail.com> - Thursday, August 23, 2001 at 21:48:41 (CDT) What is the best way to train for the TWS if you live in west Texas and do not have access to water. Please email with tips. cpope@sonoratx.n carol pope <cpope@sonoratx.net> - Thursday, August 23, 2001 at 16:11:53 (CDT) I lived in San Marcos as a kid and can remember watching the race start on several occasions. As will probably be obvious from this post I am a novice at this sport. A friend and I are considering competing in the 2002 race. We are certainly not looking to try to set any records and would be perfectly happy just to finish the race. With that said we are trying to choose a conoe. We are looking at a two man canoe and after reading a lot on the internet we are still trying to decide what material to get. We are looking for a general purpose conoe that we could also use outside of the Safari. I see quite a bit on here about Aluminum canoes, should that be our preference or is a composite as offered by Oldtown more beneficial. Any advice or comments would be appreciated. Thanks in advance for your help. Greg Wynn <gswynn@tisd.net> - Wednesday, August 22, 2001 at 20:58:13 (CDT) FOR SALE! VERY FAST CANOE! Carbon Fiber V1A - Tadem C2 class racing canoe.. (black) Model Wenonah 2001 Used in 3 races... (repaired 10 inch hole from 2001 Safari) Geared for the Texas Water Safari Repaired by Mike Spencer.. New paid $2795.00 Looking for $2000.00 or best offer Picture here: http://www.caged-tigers.com/team/argear_tips.htm Send email to shane@caged-tigers.com or call Shane Bordeau 512.751.6759 Shane Bordeau <shane@caged-tigers.com> - Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 18:15:10 (CDT) err, sorry. i should have said e-mail the below address if interested. david <david_kloesel@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 08:14:23 (CDT) wanted: shuttle sharing. i was thinking of doing a training run on the san marcos either the weekend of september 1-2, or september 8-9. i'd like to do san marcos CP - staples in prep for the junior tws. e-mail the above address if interested. thanks. david <david_kloesel@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, August 21, 2001 at 08:13:17 (CDT) 2 Safari unlimited boats for sale: Pristine new Wenonah Voyageur, with new floatation. Excellent price. SSS18 with removable rudder. Good condition. John Stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Sunday, August 19, 2001 at 21:28:50 (CDT) ESPN will be showing the film they did on TWS 2001 on August 25 at 10:30 am. Ray Churchman <raypaul@tca.net> - Saturday, August 18, 2001 at 21:59:57 (CDT) (the green coleman scanoe in the 2000 TWS you remember the idiots who never gave up to a 54th place finish ) are planning a comeback. We missed out this year due to 1 of us sailing around the world and 2 of us in school. Wish we had competed I wouldnt have spent that Sat night in jail. We have added 2 more teammates and are planning to rent a state of the art canoe ( we learned our lesson ). Well see you next year. Congrats to all of thase who finished this year and congrats to those who had enough b*lls to compete. Damon "Reevesbro" Reeves, Pat "Pickle" Ragusin, & Jeremy "Ratone" Helms Damon F. Reeves <reevesbro@juno.net> - Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 20:34:40 (CDT) Marek, my Georgian friend Devo, (whom I have not yet met, but feel extremely close to because he lives in the state that is home to the Headquarters of the U.S Army Ranger Training Command, which did so much to twist me into the shape I am in today), has hit the nail squarely on the head -- as one who has soloed a plastic sit-on top a couple of times and a heavy, yet faster solo canoe, and a heavy, broken, leaky, practically swamped solo canoe all the way to Seadrift , I feel I am qualified to add my two cents -- I don't think you have truly sampled the evil genius of the Safari until you have tried to drag your own tired weight, plus 120+, (200+?) pounds over, around and through some steep, muddy, obstacle ridden portage at 2:30 a.m. after paddling that weight for 60, 120, 200 miles. Plus, champion solo paddlers like Devo, and Wes, and Tim, and Rusty, and Tori only get to puke and hallucinate for under 50 hrs. --- come on back to the back of the pack with the terminally insane solo paddlers like me and you get to almost double your fun! Why end the misery prematurely when it's only once a year? Marek, I noticed you along the shoreline, sometimes you were even real, and I like you, so please heed this advice --GO LIGHT, MAREK Norm Thomas <Nthomas90252> - Wednesday, August 15, 2001 at 16:30:35 (CDT) Marek, The Kruger boat you recently purchased is a tremendous expedition boat designed for comfort, maximum stability, abuse, cruising and heavy loads. The boat will hit the scales at roughly 61 pounds without your Safari load. Not knowing your load plan for the race but estimating 20 pounds for gear/good/lights/batteries you will be at 81 pounds. Add one gallon of water and it puts your boat at 89 pounds. From a competitive perspective this is very heavy and will take a tremendous toll on you during energy robbing events such as portages. Questions you need to answer: 1)Are you trying to be competitive or just finish the race within the allotted time? 2)Are you capable of hauling close to 100 pounds of boat/gear over log jams and dams without assistance? If looking to be a serious competitor I would consider another boat for a Solo Unlimited effort. There are plenty of fast solo boats on the market, however, the boys from Texas (Jack Spencer & Jay Daniel) have their ?stuff? together and know how to make a fast, comfortable, stable, light Safari boat capable of considerable abuse considering the weight. I would spend my nickel and get one of their boats for the Safari unless you can get Verlen to persuade Steve Landick to build you one of his boats. If you are looking to finish the race and have a very comfortable trip down the river? the Kruger is the ticket. The Kruger is better suited for races such as the Everglades Challenge were comfort and stability are key factors while paddling in heavy seas. James H. ?devo? DeVoglaer Team Kraken James H. "devo" DeVoglaer <jdevo@mindspring.com> - Sunday, August 12, 2001 at 20:12:55 (CDT) A month ago, I brought a Sea Wind canoe built by Verlen Kruger from Michigan to Colorado. I am planning to enter with this to the Safari next year. I am paddling my Sea Wind mostly on local lakes right now, but I've also found in Nebraska Sandhills a river somewhat similar to San Marcos: the Dismal River: small, fast, narrow, spring fed, a lot of fallen trees (but no dams), quite challenging. I've posted a photo report from the Dismal River paddling on my website: http://www.frii.com/~uliasz/wayfarer. I am not familiar with racing canoes, especially, solo unlimited
boats built specifically for the Safari. I am currious how fast there are
(or how slow my boat is). Since I paddled my kayak (faster then Sea Wind)
for about 80 miles of Guadellupe River last year, I can try to figure out
something from the available split times. But maybe somebody can offer
me some hints there: the boat speed on water (no current) possible to maintain
for a day long paddling. I suspect that the paddler determination and persistence
may be more or equally important in the Safari than the boat speed.
Hi. I'm looking for a touring kayak to do a solo for the 2002 water safari. I'm also interested in a racing kayak. Price must be reasonable. If you have one, send me an e-mail, or if you know of a great discount place where I could find one, let me know. Thank you. Louis Gomez <LGomez8549@aol.com> - Wednesday, August 08, 2001 at 15:19:23 (CDT) Aussie Ka new race. The distance for the Australian race = 111 kilometers = 68.974 miles. Hmmmm.... Would it really be fair for us to show there? It looks like those guys have allot of fun down there. Maxwell Pilrgim - Thursday, August 02, 2001 at 14:33:26 (CDT) Hi again, The Hawksbury canoe race site is www.canoeclassic.asn.au Go get'em! Jeff jeff verryp <verryp@yahoo.com> - Thursday, August 02, 2001 at 12:04:45 (CDT) Hi All, While surfing thru the paddling websites I ran across the Hawksbury Canoe Classic in Australia. Low'n'behold, there is a picture of a 7-man kayak. I thought the TWS had the patent on these 'monster boats'. Maybe Mike Shea can rep- resent the interested parties for a class-action patent infringement suit. What do you think, West? The site is jeff verryp <verryp@yahoo.com> - Thursday, August 02, 2001 at 11:59:35 (CDT) Regarding the "yankee failure". I shot that photo and remember a guy who tried an ICF C-1 rigged with a recumbent bicycle rig to that turned a propeller...and then there was the kevlar catamaran with a surgical steel trapeze...and the clear lexan boat with a rower and a paaddler (I fished that one out at Scull's Crossing at 5 PM). Bottom line: gimmicks don't work, superior paddling does. Lee <txpaddler@aol.com> - Thursday, August 02, 2001 at 06:30:26 (CDT) TWS rules allow team captains to use bikes. If your looking to pedal the race. You might want to start out by team captaining on a bike. I think it would be neat to see more team captains on bikes. mike stinson <stinsonmike@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, August 01, 2001 at 08:38:40 (CDT) There was a good-looking, solo, pedal-powered rig with the laid-back seat, etc. entered several years ago from Florida. It looked like a "possible", but I think he damaged it when he ran Rio Vista. Best I remember, he also ran Cottonseed. In any case, he didn't finish and I didn't really get a good look at the details of his rigging. I had him on the video, but I don't remember what year it was...early 90s maybe. Your 3 person, pedal-powered rig sounds like more fun to video than another leviathan. You could always pack a parachute like the jets landing on carriers use just in case backpeddling didn't slow you down enough. Go for it! Pat Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Tuesday, July 31, 2001 at 23:26:59 (CDT) SOLO BOAT for rent - Three time finisher solo kayak for rent.(4th place solo unlimited in 1997, 2000, 8th place solo unlimited in 2001) Includes boat, water jugs, light system, Course description booklet, Team Captain manual with maps, racer equipment list, Team Captain equipment list. Will rent from Sept. 30, 2001 till right after 2002 race. $ 500.00. email for further details. Thomas Lee Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Tuesday, July 31, 2001 at 18:07:30 (CDT) That's not the kind of pedal power that I'm thinking of. Picture this, a team of 3 in an 18' Grumman Ultra light, custom rigged, with a laid back seat positioned low, in the middle, with 10 speed bicycle type gears, Redline Flight 3pc. cranks, and a removeable carbon fiber propellar. Could you tame the raw power? vance <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, July 31, 2001 at 16:24:49 (CDT) Peddle Power check out this link http://ops.tamu.edu/x075bb/safari/temppics/YANKEES.JPG Maxwell Pilgrim - Tuesday, July 31, 2001 at 08:45:02 (CDT) Peddle Power. You may want to review preivous Safari Pictures. Go to the Safari Photo Albumn under the contributers section. Click on the title "Another Yankee Failure". This should answer your questions. Jon Schoepflin - Tuesday, July 31, 2001 at 08:43:17 (CDT) Has anyone ever tried a peddle driven propeller in the water safari. If so how far did they get? vance <gvj4@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, July 31, 2001 at 08:16:47 (CDT) Looking for a Wenonah Advantage, prefer Ultra-light. Good enough shape to survive Safari training and race. John Jackson <jejackson@thegateway.net> - Monday, July 30, 2001 at 20:35:13 (CDT) Canoe & Kayak mag. has a story about the florida race in the latest issue. t. schlapp <totschlp@elnet.com> - Friday, July 27, 2001 at 19:51:43 (CDT) Still lookin for a used solo boat. If you've got one that you want to sell please let me know. Looking for a practice boat so newness and fanciness are not requirements. Spencer Klotzman <spencer.s.klotzman@vanderbilt.edu> - Thursday, July 26, 2001 at 14:26:50 (CDT) Cindy and I are moving to Austin and there is no place for our dog. Napoleon is 7 yrs old, male husky-hansom stranger mix, nutered. He loves to swim in the river, can retreive submerged rocks, is great with other dogs, and is a faithful companion. We really hate to lose him, but we can fill you in on the details if you are interested. email us asap. Thanks Rusty Bailey ps. do not believe anything Butch tells you. Rusty & Cindy Bailey <rustycindyb@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, July 24, 2001 at 15:58:10 (CDT) Glad to know APD had some rep's in ther Safari. I'll be in the race next year in the same type Alumacraft. I'll have to review my 10 codes (I'm down the road at San Marcos PD) and find something equally fitting. 1051,1055,1076, I just don't know. Scott Johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Monday, July 23, 2001 at 13:32:55 (CDT) I know the guys would be glad that you got a kick out of their joke when they named their canoe #1096 (Code for Crazy, if anyone didn't know that). The two policemen in #1096 were my cousin,Mike Olsen, and Randy Pogue. Both are with the Austin Police Department. This was the second year that they used that number, and I'm sure they will be using it again. I team captained this year for #1003, Randy's brother Terry and Duncan Rennie. I love being a part of it, but I don't think that I am 1096 enough to do it myself! Laura Wear <lwear@mail.utexas.edu> - Monday, July 23, 2001 at 11:16:29 (CDT) Jeff Wueste and I are heading up to the New River Gorge Nat'l Park in August to race in an adventure race (The Endorphen Fix). We'll be on a bare bones budget and are in need of a camper shell to fit out pick up. Don't mind buying a used one, if available, but would rather borrow one from a sympathetic paddler. If anyone has one we could use, we'd appreciate it. It's for a full size (8 foot bed) late model Chevy pick up. We're good for it if it's damaged or gets hit by a large boulder, just ask Bob Theilman. Thanks. --West Hansen West Hansen <west@jump.net> - Monday, July 23, 2001 at 00:17:43 (CDT) Some of you may be interested to know that there is a new series of paddling endurance marathon races started by a group from Tampa, Florida. Last year they staged their first race from TampaBay to KeyLargo through the TenThousand Islands. This year they have three races. http://www.watertribe.com/ CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Sunday, July 22, 2001 at 11:00:40 (CDT) You got me wondering, so I went looking. http://911audio.com/radio_codes/texas-police-fire_radio_codes.htm Kevin Ellis <Trainwreck20@hotmail.com> - Friday, July 20, 2001 at 16:55:49 (CDT) I was just looking through the photos today and came across the Alumacraft boat #1096. How appropriate. I got a pretty good laugh and like the number. What department are you with and will you be using that number next year? Did you tell anyone what the number indicates? Scott Johnson <johnson_scott@ci.san-marcos.tx.us> - Thursday, July 19, 2001 at 16:23:32 (CDT) Looking to borrow, rent or buy a tandem unlimited boat and a standard class boat. Prefer an ICF or Spencer C-2 and a late model SCR. Let me know. Lee, I'll call you about your ww boat. --West West Hansen <west@jump.net> - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 23:18:33 (CDT) I had the good fortune to meet 3 guys as crazy as the rest of us today. I will not place there names here till we get a paddel or 2 wet but it appears there will be another 4 man boat on the river. I appreciate there enthusiasm and am looking forward to the adventure. What a cool way to go through a Mid Life Crisis. The only thing our wifes can get mad at us for is coming home Very Smelly. Good luck to all... C.J. Hall <cjhall@itouch.net> - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 21:50:10 (CDT) Someone I know who is email challenged is lookin for a good rec. boat for cruising, fishing, groovin. He's my partner's dad. I believe he will pay around $500-$600. email if you have something. Greg Klausmeyer <hammer1@pdq.net> - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 15:26:15 (CDT) I'm sorry for posting this so far from the end of the race but i've been so busy making up for time that was lost in the best adventure of my life. I want to thank everybody that was involved in the race. Thank you Jack Spencer, for the boat (at least the deal on the boat), the advice, and the patience during our training runs. Tom Goynes, for building our spray skirt, which I thought we wouldn't need, but proved to be more than a lifesaver in a violent bay, and the advice on water jug riggings. I also want to thank the race judge at Palmetto, I'm sorry I don't know your name, but you gave us great advice on sleeping, when we were not quite thinking like ourselves. Thank you to the people who helped answer my email questions before the race. I know I was annoying at times, but I didn't let you down. We finished, not by much, but we did. In my book, in the first year, that's a victory. I met a bunch of great people, and I will treasure the memories of my first water safari, until next year. -Robert Leef Robert Leef <Robdog1123@aol.com> - Wednesday, July 18, 2001 at 05:48:14 (CDT) A friend in Houston has asked me to take his solo boat to the safari party to see if anyone wanted to buy it. The boat is a 2-year old Spencer X-tream (solo boat), safari ready w/ spray skirt. He wants $1300 cash money for the thing, if you are interested track me down at the party. I don't plan on staying too long so lemme know if you want to look at, or paddle. Ken K. Ken Kieffer <perromasfuerte@yahoo.com> - Tuesday, July 17, 2001 at 17:00:25 (CDT) I just found out I posted the wrong site for the info on the Victoria Team. Sorry about that, ok I admit I'm not very computer literate. There are several articles on the Safari in the Victoria Advocate. You can check out their archive link and type in Texas Water Safari. Here's the two articles on the team from Victoria: www.viptx.net/cgi-bin/searchadvocate.cgi?56444www.viptx.net/cgi-bin/searchadvocate.cgi?56681 Paula Goynes <goynes@centurytel.net> San Marcos, TX - Tuesday, July 17, 2001 at 16:01:26 (CDT) The race has made it's way to Brownsville. As we were traveling down the river the members of m chuch(4th st.UMC Aurora,Il) were holding their pledge money for a mission trip to help the Iglesia Mennonite del Cordero on Minnsota av. The plegdes came to more than $1000. The will be there till the end of the week. tim schlapp <totschlp@elnet.com> - Tuesday, July 17, 2001 at 13:09:25 (CDT) A fellow on our kayak fishing bulletin board came across this light weight trailer built for bicycle or kayak/canoe racks and built on a fold-up frame using motorcycle wheels and suspension. ..very interesting... CaptJack http://sportsrig.com/ CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Monday, July 16, 2001 at 13:22:34 (CDT) I want to personally thank Bob Brooks for maintaining such a great web site. It really allows me to stay in touch with the race from afar, or at least as far as Arkansas. I suspect it is also one of the significant reasons for the continued growth in race participation. Hope to see everyone back on the river again soon. Thanks again, Butch (No, I am not Rusty's evil twin) Bailey Butch Bailey <Rbailey@entergy.com> - Monday, July 16, 2001 at 00:48:07 (CDT) Mike Riley asked me to post this to the billboard for all interested parties of the Third Annual 4 Man Golf Scramble. He has made the reservation for the golf course at Gonzales Independent Golf Course for Saturday, July 21 at 7:30 a.m. If you've got a team that's great, if you don't Mike will be there to run the event so just show up and he'll take care of you. Linda Cochran <jerrylinda@grandecom.net> - Saturday, July 14, 2001 at 09:40:19 (CDT) SELLING!! I have a tandem, unlimited boat I bought from Richard Steppe last year. It is an unlimited, wood strip boat with a kevlar exterior, slider seats, rudder/pedals, and electric pump. It is Safari-ready, although not skirted or snapped. It was finished by Steppe/Bain for the 1997 Safari and has been stored indoors. Design is similar to a Spencer Extreme. It is easily singled or doubled and weighs approx. 45 pounds. It has never been wrecked or wrapped. If you are interested in it, please send me an e-mail. Paul Solomon <Solozone@aol.com> - Friday, July 13, 2001 at 23:28:08 (CDT) Marek, if you enjoy the Water Safari next year half as much as we are all enjoying your web site and sense of humor, you are going to have the time of your life! Thanks for all the fun you are sharing with us, and please give us a holler anytime we can help you. Pat Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Thursday, July 12, 2001 at 22:31:01 (CDT) my dad lost his crown less than a mile into the race. i lost mine somewhere around 5 miles in. people were still asking about them 80 hours later when we finished. we never intended to keep the ties on the whole way. we heard the 'tie guys' moniker so we decided to keep them on. david aka 'tie guys', aka 'burger king' guys david kloesel <david_kloesel@hotmail.com> - Wednesday, July 11, 2001 at 12:52:53 (CDT) "Burger King" guys. I have a picture of them in white (almost ...) shirts and ties approaching Tivoli in my safari fashion shots Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Tuesday, July 10, 2001 at 23:19:32 (CDT) Someone asked several weeks ago if the "Burger King" guys in the white shirts and ties finished. They did. Everytime I saw them on the river they were still wearing their ties, still had their shirt sleeves buttoned, and were still smiling as big as they were at the finish. It was a kick to see them having fun with it. Good job, Boat #6875. Pat Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Tuesday, July 10, 2001 at 22:11:26 (CDT) Is there going to be a golf outing before the Safari Party on the 21st? It's my understanding that they normally play at the golf course in Independence Park in Gonzales? Early? CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Tuesday, July 10, 2001 at 14:16:43 (CDT) I am Lynn Maughmer's daughter. He and Jimmy Jones won the first TWS in 1963. I am writing a screenplay about that adventure and would appreciate hearing from any of the participants in the first (or subsequent) races. I would like to make sure my facts are correct. Jeannine Maughmer <maumil@ev1.net> - Tuesday, July 10, 2001 at 11:33:30 (CDT) I am Lynn Maughmer's daughter. He and Jimmy Jones won the first TWS in 1963. I am writing a screenplay about that adventure and would appreciate hearing from any of the participants in the first (or subsequent) races. I would like to make sure my facts are correct. Jeannine Maughmer Jeannine Maughmer <maumil@ev1.net> - Tuesday, July 10, 2001 at 11:32:33 (CDT) I hope everyone is planning to make it to the TWS party at Spencers Canoes on Saturday, July 21. If you're planning to spend the night in the area, please consider coming to the Sunday morning worship service at Pecan Park Retreat. I've asked Rusty Bailey to deliver the message at the service. Rusty is the multiple solo division winner who was involved in a very serious accident last year right before the race. Many of you may not realize that he flatlined during one of his operations at the hospital. He croaked. Went belly up. Kicked the bucket. But he's back! Come hear him talk about that experience and how it changed his life. We get started at 8 a.m. (we'll have coffee and something to eat). To find us visit our web site at www.pecanparkretreat.com Tom Goynes <goynes@centurytel.net> - Tuesday, July 10, 2001 at 11:13:43 (CDT) Marek, Great report on your visit to the Safari. I remember seeing you Sunday afternoon between Gonzales & Hochheim- thinking what's this Rec, non-racer kayaker doing out here in the middle of nowhere? If you have any questions or need any help preparing for next year's race, please feel free to contact me. CaptJack CaptJack Krohn <captjack@ev1.net> - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 18:29:43 (CDT) Mareck I ENJOYED YOUR WEBSITE. NICE PHOTO'S AMD COMMENTARY. GOOD LUCK ON YOUR QUEST NEXT YEAR. RICHARD TEAM GRUMPY OLD MEN RICHARD MILLER {Team GRUMPY OLD MEN} <richetel@yahoo.com> - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 15:21:53 (CDT) Nice website and photos, Marek. You ought to be able to finish the safari in good form next year. tom <awn-siter@lycos.com> - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 14:26:09 (CDT) Marek, you do very nice work with yr camera and commentary. john stockwell <goodpaddle@yahoo.com> - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 13:24:30 (CDT) I have just posted my "TWS 2001 paddling observer's report": http://www.frii.com/~uliasz/wayfarer/tws2001a.htm. You are welcome to visit. Marek Marek Uliasz <uliasz@frii.com> - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 09:33:36 (CDT) Wanna summer train? Looking for solo shuttle share July 8-13 for: Fentress to Palmetto (36 mi), Cuero 236 to Victoria (40 mi), OR Victoria to Tivoli (47 mi) OR suggest other. Call 512-343-2880 if interested. No email July 8-13 - - on VAC & looking to paddle for TWS solo run :> Laura Fatter <lefatter1@mmm.com> - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 08:59:30 (CDT) Pro Boat for Sale: Crozier style with carbon-fiber foam core, kevlar hull and seats. Excellent condition, very light (25 lbs.) and very fast. $1200. Same as previous post but new email. Forrest Harris <kimhar@ev1.net> - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 08:16:35 (CDT) Pro Boat for Sale: Crozier style with carbon-fiber foam core, kevlar hull and seats. Excellent condition, very light (25 lbs.) and very fast. $1200. Same as previous post but new email. Forrest Harris <forhar@ev1.net> - Friday, July 06, 2001 at 08:07:35 (CDT) Regarding the mixed class, I agree with you David.It seems that in most of the U.S./World it is generally accepted that there will be only two paddlers per canoe and a mixed boat consists of one of each gender. Unfortunately Safari rules and common sense have not kept pace with the changes in boat size and there is alwys someone willing to take advantage. At the very least a mixed team should consist of equal numbers of male and female paddlers. Gary Robinson <grobwbs@txucom.net> - Thursday, July 05, 2001 at 19:29:04 (CDT) Pro Boat for Sale: Crozier style with carbon-fiber foam core, kevlar hull and seats. Excellent condition, very light (25 lbs.) and very fast. $1200. Forrest Harris <forh@ev1.net> - Wednesday, July 04, 2001 at 11:46:05 (CDT) LOOKING FOR A HULL TO GET STARTED WITH.... MY BROTHER AND I ARE JUST GETTING INTO LONG DISTANCE CANOE RACING AND TRIPS....HOPE TO TRAIN THIS SUMMER AND FALL AND ENTER A FEW RACES LATER THIS YEAR AND EARLY NEXT. LOOKING FOR A MODERATELY PRICE HULL TO BEGIN WITH AND LOADS OF ADVICE. WE LIVE IN SAN MARCOS AND SEGUIN AREA AND WOULD BE WILLING TO TRAVEL SOME DISTANCE TO LOOK AT PROMISING PROSPECTS. THANKS, STEVEN HUGHES <skthughes@axs4u.net> - Wednesday, July 04, 2001 at 11:35:45 (CDT) Well I'm back. I guess finding another crazy person is harder than I thought. They always seem to show up in all other aspects of life. But when you need one?! So here we go again. I am looking for a partner for next years race. I have the equipment, the ground support and I know the river like the back of my hand,(expecially the beginning and the end,"Daylight and Dark"). The last few people that seemed interested have all ditched before a paddle got wet. There is one that decided to go Solo and I wish them Luck.(Now that takes Guts). Drop me a line if you are interested. Thanks: C.J. C.J.Hall <cjhall@itouch'net> - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 23:50:44 (CDT) not that i could talk my wife into doing the safari, but has there been any thought to adding a mixed-tandem class? i just think it's ridiculous to call a boat with 7-8 dudes and 1 chick 'mixed'. i realize the ladies in those boats can paddle my tail off, but those boats are not so much 'mixed' as they're just pure 'unlimited'. david kloesel <david_kloesel@hotmail.com> - Tuesday, July 03, 2001 at 08:37:40 (CDT) Playing around on the net during the rain today and came across this great article about the Victoria team. They did an awesome job and now I understand why. http://www.texascrossroads.com/scripts/editorial.dll?render=y&eetype=Article&eeid=4702875&ck=&ver=3.0 Paula Goynes Paula Goynes <goynes@centurytel.net> - Monday, July 02, 2001 at 16:56:56 (CDT) I just want to through out there a huge thanks to Flo at the seadrifter. I had left a hat, my safari shirt, some shoes and a pair of shorts down there. She sent this stuff to me in Colorado. Thanks to Linda also for letting ,me know to call Flo. Just more proof that Texans rule!!! Thanks again. FUMAR CHOCHAR MOPAR NO REST FOR THE WEARY # 9 Jon Schoepflin <jon.schoepflin@nextel.com> - Saturday, June 30, 2001 at 15:47:21 (CDT) 'At a Boy, Bob! It is a great website and we all appreciate your hard work and talent! Thanks a bunch! Pat Pat <pgunnsco@thegateway.net> - Friday, June 29, 2001 at 00:43:50 (CDT) SOLO BOAT for rent - Three time finisher solo kayak for rent.(4th place solo unlimited in 1997, 2000, 8th place solo unlimited in 2001) Includes boat, water jugs, light system, Course description booklet, Team Captain manual with maps, racer equipment list, Team Captain equipment list. Will rent from Sept. 30, 2001 till right after 2002 race. $ 500.00. email for further details. Thomas L. Mendenhall <the.mendenhalls@prodigy.net> - Thursday, June 28, 2001 at 10:24:13 (CDT) How about a big "at-a-boy" for Bob Brooks for running such a great TWS website! Go Bob! Great job! Thanks a million smiles! Ted Slaughter <Tedtbsss@aol.com> - Wednesday, June 27, 2001 at 18:39:32 (CDT) The billboard was getting pretty big, so I archived everything through June 2001. For previous messages go to: 2001 Archive. Otherwise, feel free to post a new message ! Bob Brooks <kayaker@tamu.edu> - Wednesday, June 27, 2001 at 18:07:46 (CDT)
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