Originally Posted by
Submarino
Thank you Alan! Thank you Sleddog. In the still moments, my mind drifts back to those two major connected events that ruminate through my essence and soul.
The departure from SF to Hanalei was surreal, after 10 years of acquiring the necessary skills on my first and only boat, I could not believe I was on my Way! I was well prepared and experienced from events like in that second picture.
The second photo belies the desperation of 3 (and later 4) tethered sailors in the water out of a crew of 5 because of a cross wave in a jibe. In those conditions seen, inflatable PFD's alternate back and forth between a benefit and hindrance with each wave. I have two people to thank for our deliverance. First, my sailing teacher who impressed upon me the absolute need for tethers outside the gate. The second, John McBride, a chosen solid first mate who took charge when I (the 4th last person) was tossed into the water while yanking the tether of an immersed crew member. Sancho was so disoriented that he was head down and feet up flutter kicking deeper into the green wash. Afterwards, we had a formal debrief and lessons learned. This led to a critical review of different solo and crewed recovery drills with a wet-suited person.
Moving on.... Calling all cats, calling all cats! The SSS needs you! Please stand by for a formal announcement soon.
Joe Balderrama
SSS Commodore
Underline added by me. I'd drop into a zoom meeting to listen to your thoughts about this incident and what you learned, and what you changed on board the boat as a result of it.
1968 Selmer Series 9 B-flat and A clarinets
1962 Buesher "Aristocrat" tenor saxophone
Piper One Design 24, Hull #35; "Alpha"