I wonder how long it will be before we have a new event - "CC" (Cuba Challenge).
The new "CC"
(5 posts) (5 voices)-
Posted 6 years ago #
-
Its quite possible that its already under way. Havanna to Miami - about 250 miles, unsupported, no electronics, max draft and only the clothes you can carry in a sack.
Posted 6 years ago # -
I have to admit that it was one of the first things I thought when the news hit. But my plate is full for the next year or two. We have the Minnesota Voyageurs Challenge in the early fall of 2015 and something that is going to be great in July 2016.
After that Cuba??? Maybe. I have very fond memories of my '53 Chevy.
Posted 6 years ago # -
Chief wrote:
I have to admit that it was one of the first things I thought when the news hit. But my plate is full for the next year or two. We have the Minnesota Voyageurs Challenge in the early fall of 2015 and something that is going to be great in July 2016.
After that Cuba??? Maybe. I have very fond memories of my '53 Chevy.
Did you leave that in Cuba?
Posted 6 years ago # -
In 2002 I sailed my Ketch solo from Key West to Havana, it was illegal but they were not prosecuting at the time so I went. It was my first experiance crossing the stream with a strong wind counter to the current. The learning curve was steep! The windvane was incapable anticipating breaking waves so it was a long night shivering shirtless, unable to leave the wheel to get a jacket or food. When you do dumb things Mama nature has a way of making sure you are taught a lesson you never forget. It was worth it, I stayed a week. Two other cruisers and I payed $100 for the three of us to rent a 1954 Chevy Bel Air 4 door with driver for a 12 hour tour. The original engine was long gone and replaced with a 4 Cylinder Isuzu diesal mounted to a 1/4" adapter plate to the original 3 on the tree tranny. 0-60 times were measured in minutes and we had to push start it in reverse because the battery was chronically dead, but it all added to the adventure. The driver bought a fighting cock with his new found wealth and we had to take turns holding him. It was kind of like a game of hot potatoe because he would occasionally give us a "Gift". He accompanied us on the boat ride through caves and a short hike through a National Park. We didn't have to buy him a ticket and no one seemed to have an issue with him tagging along. I hope he had a long life. Racing across the Gulf Stream is probably a bad idea unless the start is held until a good weather window, because when the wind blows counter to the Stream it is BAD. Funny thing is the return was so calm and winds so light I actually was brought to a stop in a mass of saragasso weed. Starting the engine only resulted in a clogged intake, so you just never know what you are going to get.DWM
Posted 6 years ago #
Reply
You must log in to post.