SailGP in Sydney

The races were close and exciting. Then the freak storm came and one of the wings took off in the storm causing lots of damage. Never thought I would ever see something like this!

Netflix Sailing Movie: True Spirit

I followed her voyage around the world back in 2009/10 pretty closely. I did not know about that last storm. I enjoyed the movie and thought the lead did a great job. Check it out

Unreal Video: The Death Zone, Mt. Everest

I have a friend who is thinking about climbing this 29,000 foot mountain. After watching this video he had second thoughts about the summit. Would you attempt such a climb? Here is some info to digest: It costs about $50k - $60k to hire guides and sherpas to help you summit. It takes about 6-8 weeks on the mountain to get to the top. Most folks take a year to get in the best shape of their life for the climb. About 6,000 folks have made to the top. About 350 people have died making the attempt. Most die on the way down. Most of their bodies are still on the mountain. On summit day, there can be long lines of people trying to get to the top. A traffic jam on top of Everest! About 700-800 people attempt the climb each year. Only 50% will summit. There is alot of suffering on this climb due to length of time at high elevation and lack of proper rest. The brain won't sleep when it does not have enough oxygen. Full screen only!

Amazzzing Sail

Hana and I took off with a favorable tide and light winds on Wednesday. Winds were 8-10kt which is perfect for a winter sail. Boat speed was 3-5k and the water surface was smooth. Heading towards the city we spotted 2 whales near Angel Island in about 40 feet of water. That's rare, however after 40 years of sailing, I have seen about a dozen. Three sailboats were around me, they tacked towards the city and I took off in great winds towards Red Rock and the only boat for miles. Another tack towards Angel and we hit the beach for some fun. I am loving the 10kt days on the bay and there have been many. This week I will sail 5 out of 7 days (wife out of town!). Cowabunga!

Bonehead Move of the Week

Up in Oregon, a man stole a motor yacht and tried to head to sea. The boat ran into trouble at the river bar and the Coast Guard was called. As a rescue swimmer attempted to get to the boat, a huge wave hit the boat with the man standing near the aft of the boat. Both rescuer and man were rescued and the man on the boat later arrested.

Growndswell - the movie