| Mark Deppe Alchera J/120 |
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 A veteran of the 1996 and 2002 SSS TransPacs, Mark is setting out once again in "Alchera", a J120. "I told myself after the last time that I wouldn't be doing this race again. But now I understand why they run this race every two years - by that time, you've forgotten all the bad things and the hard work and you only remember the good stuff. Seriously though, my goals this time are different. The first time was simply for the sense of personal accomplishment. The second time was with a new boat and the intention to be much more competitive. This time, it's for the fun of it!" "Furthermore, it really ticks me off that after two TransPacs I have yet to find a glass fishing float on the return trip. So I'm giving it another shot. I also have yet to catch a fish. Or see a green flash. So I suppose you could say those are my goals as well." The name "Alchera" comes from aboriginal lore and means "dreamtime". She was set up specifically for singlehanding offshore with some special features. For example, there is an additional watertight compartment in the bow section to protect against collisions. During the '96 race Mark struck a whale broadside. "Fortunately, there was no damage, but it was a scary experience I hope I don't have to repeat." Another interesting touch is a radar and instrument repeater screen mounted in the quarterberth, which can be viewed without having to get up. An additional set of winches in the cockpit allows Alchera to be singlehanded from either behind the wheel or in front. And of course, all control lines are led back to the cockpit. Those who followed the 2002 race may remember the daily logs posted on the SSS website from Alchera, and Mark hopes to continue submitting his logs again this year. After the race Mark plans to sail Alchera back to San Francisco, where it will be prepared for cruising Mexico in the fall.
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