BajaNomad - MIKE YOUNGHUSBAND/ DON-KAY NEEDED ASSISTANCE, but not anymore!

MIKE YOUNGHUSBAND/ DON-KAY NEEDED ASSISTANCE, but not anymore!

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KAT54 - 11-20-2010 at 11:23 AM

Who is out there looking for Mike?
Has anyone left yet?

SoloSports - 11-20-2010 at 11:24 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by SoloSports
I know of several teams of motorcycle riders who have not been able to make it from the San Carlos Mesa over to the Caterina mesa.

It would seem, at this point, that motorcycles would be the best and quickest way in to assess the problem.

No way to get motorcycles to Mike's location except via boat. Like in my post above i know of several failed attempts from both Punta San Carlos and Catarina. Panga to the arroyo and then via foot seems the only way without a helicopter.

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 11:29 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by SoloSports

No way to get motorcycles to Mike's location except via boat. Like in my post above i know of several failed attempts from both Punta San Carlos and Catarina. Panga to the arroyo and then via foot seems the only way without a helicopter.

Gawwwdammmm....What did he get himself into??

Bob H - 11-20-2010 at 11:32 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by woody with a view
i've seen packs of coyotes "out there" running 6-8 strong. way more than enough to take his DonKay down.=

Woody, I have heard that coyotes will not attack large animals, only seeking those prey the same size of the coyotes or smaller.
Bob H

David K - 11-20-2010 at 11:34 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by KAT54
Who is out there looking for Mike?
Has anyone left yet?

You should read the thread from the start... BajaGringo's, BajaCactus' and Solosport's.

I just posted the info on what's happening on Fred Metcalf's board... just in case somebody who doesn't read Nomad sees it there.

Wild Bill is in Baja for the 1000, and he has the vehicle and knowledge of all of Baja to possibly add something to this effort. Wild Bill is a moderator on Fred's board. Also, Ralph at Rancho Santa Ynez communicates with Ellen (Elena La Loca) daily on HAM radio. Ellen is Wild Bill's lady and either of them may spot this news on Fred's board before here.

BajaBlanca - 11-20-2010 at 11:35 AM

satellite communicator would be sooooooooooo welcome right now. what a way to get your name out and really well known - thru BajaNomads and a situation like this one.

woody with a view - 11-20-2010 at 11:37 AM

i asked the local panqueros the same thing. they said 2-3 coyotes could take a human. why do you think the ranchers shoot every coyote they see? don't they raise cattle? it seems out of place in our futuristic lifestyle, but "out there" nature rules.

BTW, i'm not an expert on coyote behavior, but i did stay at a holiday inn express last night! :lol:

Brian L - 11-20-2010 at 11:38 AM

I don' think it is as serious as you think. He has two options on his SPOT device, one for "I need some help, I'm in a tight spot", the other "Gawwwwdammm I am hurt!!!".

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Gawwwdammmm....What did he get himself into??

Bob H - 11-20-2010 at 11:38 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Bob H

Quote:

Originally posted by woody with a view
i've seen packs of coyotes "out there" running 6-8 strong. way more than enough to take his DonKay down.=

Woody, I have heard that coyotes will not attack large animals, only seeking those prey the same size of the coyotes or smaller.
Bob H

Oh, I take that back.... it is quite a different story regarding "packs" of coyotes.... wow

Diet and hunting

Coyote on elk carcass in winter in Lamar ValleyCoyotes are opportunistic, versatile carnivores with a 90% mammalian diet, depending on the season. They primarily eat small mammals, such as voles, prairie dogs, eastern cottontails, ground squirrels, and mice, though they will eat birds, snakes, lizards, deer, javelina, and livestock, as well as large insects and other large invertebrates. Any species of birds that nests on the ground are targeted by coyotes. Though they will consume large amounts of carrion, they tend to prefer fresh meat. Fruits and vegetables are a significant part of the coyote's diet in the autumn and winter months. Part of the coyote's success as a species is its dietary adaptability. As such, coyotes have been known to eat human rubbish and domestic pets. They catch cats and dogs when they come too close to the pack. Urban populations of coyotes have been known to actively hunt cats, and to leap shorter fences to take small dogs. In particularly bold urban packs, coyotes have also been reported to shadow human joggers or larger dogs, and even to take small dogs while the dog is still on a leash. However, this behavior is often reported when normal urban prey, such as rabbits, have become scarce.

Coyotes shift their hunting techniques in accordance with their prey. When hunting small animals such as mice, they slowly stalk through the grass, and use their acute sense of smell to track down the prey. When the prey is located, the coyotes stiffen and pounce on the prey in a cat-like manner. Coyotes will commonly work in teams when hunting large ungulates such as deer. Coyotes may take turns in baiting and pursuing the deer to exhaustion, or they may drive it towards a hidden member of the pack. When attacking large prey, coyotes attack from the rear and the flanks of their prey. Occasionally they also grab the neck and head, pulling the animal down to the ground. Coyotes are persistent hunters, with successful attacks sometimes lasting as much as 21 hours; even unsuccessful ones can continue more than 8 hours before the coyotes give up. Depth of snow can affect the likelihood of a successful kill. Packs of coyotes can bring down prey as large as adult elk, which usually weigh over 250 kg (550 lbs).

The average distance covered in a night's hunting is 4 km (2½ mi).

David K - 11-20-2010 at 11:38 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Gawwwdammmm....What did he get himself into??

On foot, and on hoof it is possible to go where no wheeled vehicle can go.

Perhaps the super rains of last January created gullys far too deep or steep to cross near the coast, so they were detouring around?

They are much closer to Santa Catarina Landing and the small fish camp just north (Punta Blu) than to San Carlos... but it may be a case of being stuck between a rock and a hard place literally.

[Edited on 11-20-2010 by David K]

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 11:43 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by blane
I don' think it is as serious as you think.

Hope and pray you're right. Thanks.

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 11:45 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
On foot, and on hoof it is possible to go where no wheeled vehicle can go.

I should have been paying closer attention, but how far is he from civilization on the reverse side, David?

David K - 11-20-2010 at 11:51 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
On foot, and on hoof it is possible to go where no wheeled vehicle can go.

I should have been paying closer attention, but how far is he from civilization on the reverse side, David?

As the crow flies, he is 3.5 miles from Punta Blu fish camp and road... and about 5 miles from Santa Catarina camp.

Here is my road log from Hwy. 1 to the coast there...

0.0 (0.0) Take the signed right turnoff to 'Santa Catarina (32 km)' 46.9 miles from El Rosario's Pemex. The road is between Km. 132 and 133. Just ahead (on Hwy. 1) is the road left to Guayaquil.

This is a good, fast graded road for the first 30 or so miles and it is fun to drive through beautiful cactus gardens.

7.2 (7.2) Road in from left to San Agustin along the old route from El Marmol... where onyx blocks were trucked to the Pacific at Santa Catarina Landing to be shipped north.

19.2 (12.0) pass through tree shaded Rancho Santa Catarina.

21.1 (1.9) Fork, left to Punta Canoas and right for Santa Catarina Landing... we go right. The road climbs to the the top of a ridge and then drops down to the coastal plain. The original road used to haul onyx over can be seen to the north.

36.3 (15.2) Fork, we first take right fork and it goes 3.4 miles to fish camp 'Punta Blu'... dead end, so back to this fork and take left branch.

37.3 (1.0) Road left is the route south... ahead goes 1.0 mile to Santa
Catarina fish camp, on the beach.

Bob H - 11-20-2010 at 11:56 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
... but it may be a case of being stuck between a rock and a hard place literally.

[Edited on 11-20-2010 by David K]

David, reminds me of this story a while back... I think it was in 1996

Hiker John Ey spent eight days trapped in a narrow crevasse, large crack in the upper surface of a glacier, formed by tension acting upon the brittle ice. Transverse crevasses occur where the grade of the glacier bed becomes suddenly steeper; longitudinal crevasses, where the glacier in southern Utah, living on only a swallow of water a day after he ate the last bites of his last sandwich.

The 44-year-old printer and photographer from Tucson, Ariz., was rescued Wednesday after he heard the tinkle tin·kle

The dog had tracked his scent to the 75-foot-deep crevasse near Brimstone brimstone: see sulfur. Canyon in the new Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument: see National Parks and Monuments (table). , about 200 miles south of Salt Lake City.

"It was hard, horrible," he said by telephone yesterday from a hospital bed in Page, Ariz., where he was being treated for dehydration. "I wouldn't wish it on a murderer or a rapist. . . . I'm eternally thankful for a second chance at life."

Ey (pronounced EYE) had been camping alone in the area for several days and started what he intended to be a day trek the morning of Oct. 8. He packed three quarts of water, two sandwiches and two candy bars, expecting to return to his truck by nightfall.

The area is fractured with slot canyons, some hundreds of feet deep and only 2 or 3 feet wide. Ey went into one and was unable to hike out.

He searched for another exit in the sandstone maze, descending again and again, sometimes in canyons so narrow that he was forced to squeeze through on his side.

After a day of exhausting dead-ends, Ey found himself all but wedged into a narrow crevasse with no more room to maneuver.

"I made a mistake," he said. "And by the time I realized it, I was too tired to climb out." By sundown, Ey had only three bites of a sandwich and 5 ounces of water left.

"He'd gotten himself in a real pickle pickle, general term for fruits or vegetables preserved in vinegar or brine, usually with spices or sugar or both. Vegetables commonly pickled include the beet, cabbage, cauliflower, cucumber, olive, onion, pepper, and tomato. , that's certain," said Garfield County

Sheriff's Deputy Monte Luker. "He can't go up or sideways, and he's wedged in there at the bottom of this crack."

His food was gone after the first day, and he rationed his water - one sip a day. But his real enemy was time.

"I can't even begin to tell you all the things I thought about," he said. "Friends, family, religion. Literally the gamut."

"The days were interminable in·ter·mi·na·ble, but at least they were warm," he said. "But nights were agony," shivering from the cold and believing hours had passed when his watch would tell him only 15 or 20 minutes had slipped by.

"People stand in a line at a grocery store and get mad after five minutes," he said. "Never me. Never again."

A worried friend called the sheriff on Tuesday, and on Wednesday Ey's truck was spotted from a search plane. Four dogs from Salt Lake-based Rocky Mountain Search Dogs and a helicopter joined the search.

On Wednesday afternoon, a golden retrievergolden retriever, breed of large sporting dog developed primarily in Scotland in the mid-19th cent. It stands about 23 in. (58.4 cm) high at the shoulder and weighs from 60 to 75 lb

[Edited on 11-20-2010 by Bob H]

LancairDriver - 11-20-2010 at 11:56 AM

The SPOT tracker has simple one push buttons for 911 or simply calling for needing help. It is possible a button could have been depressed accidentally and set off the message. I would hope this is the situation, but given the terrain he is in anything is possible. I will post the coordinates on the Baja Bush Pilots web site that DK had given earlier and maybe someone going north or south could fly over the area and take a look. They couldn't do much other that report if seeing him and verify if it looks like he needs help or not.

SoloSports - 11-20-2010 at 12:04 PM

Not getting a reply from my camp host Neil makes me think he went with the fisherman to go find Mike.

After reading an article posted here it sounds like Mike has two dogs. Anyone know if this is the case? Also here is a quote from the same article regarding Mike.

"He has taken classes at REI in GPS and compass and topographic map reading. He has Search and Rescue and extraction insurance and a SPOT satellite GPS messenger so friends and family will always know where he is. He spent eight months “bonding” with Don-Kay."

The part about the SAR insurance definitely eases the mind and makes me think it IS NOT AN EMERGENCY and it seems sending in a panga to find him is the right thing to do. If we get the signal from his SPOT that he is actually hurt and in an emergency situation then I suggest those on his responder list call his SAR insurance company or Celia Diaz at 619-425-5080 to organize a medi-vac.

From what we know at the moment there is no reason to overreact or jump to conclusions and set a ball in motion that could put others in harms way or a bad situation for no reason. From what I understand Mike is prepared, did his homework and accepted the risk and responsibility of his adventure and if he is truly in an emergency situation he would use his SPOT accordingly.

Let's see what Neil comes back to us with and we'll have more information to make a decision on the best next step.

David K - 11-20-2010 at 12:05 PM

I hope to get a fresh SPOT with the normal I am okay type of message...

David K - 11-20-2010 at 12:08 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by SoloSports
Not getting a reply from my camp host Neil makes me think he went with the fisherman to go find Mike.

After reading an article posted here it sounds like Mike has two dogs. Anyone know if this is the case? Also here is a quote from the same article regarding Mike.

"He has taken classes at REI in GPS and compass and topographic map reading. He has Search and Rescue and extraction insurance and a SPOT satellite GPS messenger so friends and family will always know where he is. He spent eight months “bonding” with Don-Kay."

The part about the SAR insurance definitely eases the mind and makes me think it IS NOT AN EMERGENCY and it seems sending in a panga to find him is the right thing to do. If we get the signal from his SPOT that he is actually hurt and in an emergency situation then I suggest those on his responder list call his SAR insurance company or Celia Diaz at 619-425-5080 to organize a medi-vac.

From what we know at the moment there is no reason to overreact or jump to conclusions and set a ball in motion that could put others in harms way or a bad situation for no reason. From what I understand Mike is prepared, did his homework and accepted the risk and responsibility of his adventure and if he is truly in an emergency situation he would use his SPOT accordingly.

Let's see what Neil comes back to us with and we'll have more information to make a decision on the best next step.

He gave his two U.S. dogs to Graham to take back last month, when he was between Valle Trinidad and Hwy. 1... as he had aquired the new dog 'Solo' during the walk. He has one dog with him now.

solosancarlos - 11-20-2010 at 12:09 PM

MIKE IS SAFE AND HAS BEEN FOUND !!!!!!!!!!!

HE AND ALL ARE OK

REPORT TO FOLLOW SOON

NEIL

David K - 11-20-2010 at 12:10 PM

GREAT !!!

Brian L - 11-20-2010 at 12:11 PM

I literally just got a chill down my body when reading that.

AWESOME!!!!!!

Quote:

Originally posted by solosancarlos
MIKE IS SAFE AND HAS BEEN FOUND !!!!!!!!!!!

HE AND ALL ARE OK

REPORT TO FOLLOW SOON

NEIL

bajaguy - 11-20-2010 at 12:13 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by SoloSports

The part about the SAR insurance definitely eases the mind and makes me think it IS NOT AN EMERGENCY and it seems sending in a panga to find him is the right thing to do. If we get the signal from his SPOT that he is actually hurt and in an emergency situation then I suggest those on his responder list call his SAR insurance company or Celia Diaz at 619-425-5080 to organize a medi-vac.

Once he hits the 911 button on his SPOT tracker, SPOT takes over and manages the SAR response worldwide through GEOS Alliance. The below is a message (edited) I received from GEOS when I asked about SAR/Medivac from Baja.........

"I am the commanding officer of the International Emergency Response Coordination Center.

First, we have done a number of SAR in Baja. Aside from this we have for the past two years provided the exclusive rescue and security monitoring for the Baja 1000 and 500.

In Baja we call the Mexican Rescue Coordination Center to report the initial incident, from there they will either take the call or direct it to the State Police, typically dispatched from Mexicali or Ensenada......"

The costs for these services are paid from the SAR insurance purchased by the SPOT owner.

[Edited on 11-20-2010 by bajaguy]

woody with a view - 11-20-2010 at 12:22 PM

you'd think that came up while it was still on the drawing board. push this button 5 times quickly. pause for 10 seconds. repeat 5 times...... i can't wait to hear what's really going on. at least all are safe! it seems like that pack of rabid coyotes will go hungry another day.... :lol:

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 12:23 PM

Is it too early to celebrate? I don't think so. SALUD

SoloSports - 11-20-2010 at 12:33 PM

Thank Neil for the great work, effort and the report.

I will let Neil post the information he just emailed me. Great job! Kevin Trejo

Skipjack Joe - 11-20-2010 at 12:35 PM

Boy, just think of the stories Don Kay will tell back at the corral!

"I even got a ride on a panga!"

" What I learned back there is it really pays off to be stubborn"

[Edited on 11-20-2010 by Skipjack Joe]

David K - 11-20-2010 at 12:44 PM

I have Mike's daughter's number... I am waiting for the details to call her and Bonni...

Brian L - 11-20-2010 at 12:47 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by SoloSports
Thank Neil for the great work, effort and the report.

I will let Neil post the information he just emailed me. Great job! Kevin Trejo

Can't you copy the e-mail here for us? The suspense is killing me!

Jaybo - 11-20-2010 at 12:48 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by blane

Quote:

Originally posted by SoloSports
Thank Neil for the great work, effort and the report.

I will let Neil post the information he just emailed me. Great job! Kevin Trejo

Can't you copy the e-mail here for us? The suspense is killing me!

Ditto!

Bob H - 11-20-2010 at 12:50 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by DENNIS
Is it too early to celebrate? I don't think so. SALUD

DITTO Dennis... great news, indeed!

Graham - 11-20-2010 at 12:50 PM

(From Graham's #2)

Thanks David--I called Tammy already and let her know--she's been checking Baja Nomad regularly and is very thankful for everyone's effort. She is also calling Mike's recsue buddy as he was coming to help from way south.

Bonni

David K - 11-20-2010 at 12:53 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Graham
(From Graham's #2)

Thanks David--I called Tammy already and let her know--she's been checking Baja Nomad regularly and is very thankful for everyone's effort. She is also calling Mike's recsue buddy as he was coming to help from way south.

Bonni

Great...

I hope Graham checks in from San Ignacio to get the news... However, we do need the details from Punta San Carlos to see if Graham could be of assistance there.

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 12:56 PM

If we learn nothing else from this, we will have learned that better methods of communication are in order.

Mulegena - 11-20-2010 at 12:59 PM

Go to SoloSport on Facebook, Nomads.

woody with a view - 11-20-2010 at 12:59 PM

yep!

edit: yep for Dennis. what's facebook and how do i get there?

[Edited on 11-20-2010 by woody with a view]

SoloSports - 11-20-2010 at 01:02 PM

Ok, I won't leave you guys in suspense any longer. I'm sure Neil will post a full report later. Here is what he sent me. Kevin Trejo

"FOUND HIM !!!!!!!!!

Located him about 9:30 am 18 km down the coast. He was out of water and the burro had come to a halt. He is only about 5-6 miles from the next fish camp so he was absolutely thrilled when we showed up with the water. Alfredo from Fish Camp was the man and Mike paid him 500 pesos for his effort. Alfredo was happy with that !
Do you want me to "announce" this on the Bajanomad site or should you ?

standing by

neil"

Mulegena - 11-20-2010 at 01:03 PM

not to hijack, so briefly:

go to www.facebook.com and create an account
at the top of your home page Search: SoloSports and read the thread

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 01:03 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by woody with a view
edit: yep for Dennis. what's facebook and how do i get there?

I don't know. I've been avoiding it.

SoloSports - 11-20-2010 at 01:05 PM

As you can see I was going to let Neil make the post as he found Mike and deserved to let you all know but I see some of you just can't wait for his report so there you go. KT~

woody with a view - 11-20-2010 at 01:07 PM

good for Mike.

elgatoloco - 11-20-2010 at 01:08 PM

Good news. :cool:

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 01:08 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by SoloSports
As you can see I was going to let Neil make the post as he found Mike and deserved to let you all know but I see some of you just can't wait for his report so there you go. KT~

Thanks, Kevin. You guys run a good program down there. It could have been a mess without your efforts.

solosancarlos - 11-20-2010 at 01:09 PM

Ok so we all deserve a big round of applause for the team effort that went into locating Mike & Co. this morning. If it weren't for David K's google map and Kevin deciding on the best course of action this could have been a major cluster f@ck.
The discussions and teamwork here was invaluable. Thank you everyone !

So here is the condensed version:

Early this morning I made a copy of David's Google earth map indicating his last reported position. I packed water (5 gal), food/first aid, GPS and headed down to the local fish camp. Radio'd on the VHF and Alfredo responded and came to the beach right away. Apprised him of the situation and within 15 minutes we were steaming down the coast. Very fortunate as the seas are down and the wind is light.
After nearly 20 km we came towards the arroyo that hits the beach below Mike's last coordinate and there they were. He had moved down the arroyo next to the beach. Good move Mike !
.
Mike and Co. had run out of water. Don-Kay had gone on strike and they all were exhausted from this extremely challenging section of his journey. He told me that our arrival was like the coming of Christ. he had to rub his eyes and make sure he wasn't seeing things.
He is in great spirits now and definitely recognizes he is responsible for actions but he didn't expect how tough this section would be with a burro. Hiking it on his own would have been easy compared to towing a burro he said.
He says hello to everyone and wants us to know that HE THANKS US FROM THE BOTTOM OF HIS HEART and is fortunate that technology is what it is today. Wihout a doubt, on his own with no chance of aid, he would have been in big trouble.

The humor of the morning was that when I told him of the potential weather to the North(may or may not rain here) we laughed hard that "It figures it might rain right after water is delivered to him !"

So he is about a 6 miles to the first of many fish camps on the coast and hopes he can make it by days end. He has water to keep Don-Kay, Solo and himself going for a 3-4 days.

It was the best I could do and I will continue to monitor his position at the end of today. He was reminded not to forget the end of day position.

Feliz Viente Noviembre ! Viva la Mexico !

Best regards,

Neil at Solosports

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 01:14 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by solosancarlos
It was the best I could do
Neil at Solosports

Who could ask for more. It was a heroic effort by all concerned.
That goes for you too, David.

When the goin' gets tough...the tough get goin'.

SoloSports - 11-20-2010 at 01:14 PM

You da man Neil! I'm way stoked to have you on my team! Well done! KT~

Baja Gringo

bajaguy - 11-20-2010 at 01:17 PM

Now how do we recall Ron???????

woody with a view - 11-20-2010 at 01:18 PM

for the record, next time someone may be in the area and needs assistance, what is/are the vhf freq's monitored or used by the campo?

BajaGeoff - 11-20-2010 at 01:19 PM

Awesome! Nomads rock!

BornFisher - 11-20-2010 at 01:20 PM

YIPPEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!! Great work all around! Props to the rescue team!!!

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 01:20 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajaguy
Now how do we recall Ron???????

Ohhh Sheit....he might be out there stumbling around the hills.
OK....I'm going out for a box of beer for the follow-up drama.

krafty - 11-20-2010 at 01:29 PM

what wonderful news-If I ever get in a bind I want you Nomads on my team! Great effort!

windgrrl - 11-20-2010 at 01:31 PM

Incredible journey. Incredible compadres.

David K - 11-20-2010 at 01:31 PM

Great news... I will share Neil's report on the two other forums (Fred's board and Ron's Talk Baja)...

So, it was only a water thing and the burro isn't sick?

Why did he go up the canyon away from the beach?

Thanks Neil!

wilderone - 11-20-2010 at 01:32 PM

SO GLAD TO HEAR THIS - WONDERFUL NEWS
Should make a great chapter in the book. Great job, Neil - you're awesome.

woody with a view - 11-20-2010 at 01:39 PM

so much for staying put when you request help. i guess his only hope of rescue was by sea, so why not get down to the water and then set it off?

let that be a lesson to others when they become lost. you hear it all the time.... "STAY PUT!"

[Edited on 11-20-2010 by woody with a view]

KASHEYDOG - 11-20-2010 at 01:42 PM

PEOPLE :fire:

This isn't over till we've heard from Ron ( Bajagringo ). He may be out there looking all over and wind up having problems himself. Anyone heard from him since last night.. :?:

Ken Cooke - 11-20-2010 at 01:48 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by David K
GREAT !!!

Ditto. I can't wait to hear what happened.

fandango - 11-20-2010 at 02:07 PM

ron was heading to the policia in san quintin, they were then going to coordinate with el rosario.

david k, can you contact antonio and have him contact policia in el rosario to check on ron's whereabouts?

we should try and find him.

KASHEYDOG - 11-20-2010 at 02:14 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by fandango
ron was heading to the policia in san quintin, they were then going to coordinate with el rosario.

david k, can you contact antonio and have him contact policia in el rosario to check on ron's whereabouts?

we should try and find him.

At 6PM last night he was talking about a 90 mile drive to look for Mike. I've not seen anything about him since.. :?:

..
Where is he??? Lets not forget about our first responders.

David K - 11-20-2010 at 02:16 PM

Quote:

As Antonio is in Las Vegas or ?, I cannot get a hold of him. I only have his Tijuana and El Rosario land line numbers, not his cell phone. I am sure he will see the thread here for the latest news... Baja Nomad is the center of this information exchange.

SoloSports - 11-20-2010 at 02:17 PM

Quote:

We should also let them know Mike & Co are fine and to cal off any search and rescue efforts. KT~

David K - 11-20-2010 at 02:19 PM

Please go ahead... you probably have the El Rosario police number, yes?

woody with a view - 11-20-2010 at 02:21 PM

if Ron had any sense (i'm sure he does!) he would head for the closest launch spot, san carlos. why drive to catarina, which is only a few miles away from Mike, but 2.5 minimum hours from the turn off to san carlos.

he's probably eating crab claws at the campo with the boys right now.....

BajaRat - 11-20-2010 at 02:22 PM

Kevin and Niel,
Thank you and please thank your local fisherman friends for all of your classic selfless Baja Californio spirits. I'm sorry for being so short on the phone last night but when nomads started getting the news of the unknown curcumstances all I could invision was people rushing into unfamiliar territory and they themselves potetially becomming more people to rescue. You have to love or at least appreciate some of our modern advances in communication. He sent a signal for help from the middle of a wilderness, I called you on my computer from the middle of a wilderness and the rescue party was contacted and dispached in the middle of a wilderness. To cool, see y'all next year.
All the best Lionel
P.S. If the donkey did'nt have pesos for the panga ride I"ll gladly pay his fare. Niel I sure hope you got pictures of this! :cool:

Graham - 11-20-2010 at 02:27 PM

Looks like Graham just got a spot message from Mike showing all is "OK." He's pretty much on the coast, (eyeballing it, I'm no map expert.) Yeah!

Bonni

[Edited on 11-20-2010 by Graham]

Cypress - 11-20-2010 at 02:28 PM

So what happened? Why did he send out an SOS? :?:

Folks... they are continuing south, on foot/ hoof

David K - 11-20-2010 at 02:29 PM

Re-read solosancarlos:

... Mike and Co. had run out of water. Don-Kay had gone on strike and they all were exhausted from this extremely challenging section of his journey. He told me that our arrival was like the coming of Christ. he had to rub his eyes and make sure he wasn't seeing things.
He is in great spirits now and definitely recognizes he is responsible for actions but he didn't expect how tough this section would be with a burro. Hiking it on his own would have been easy compared to towing a burro he said.
He says hello to everyone and wants us to know that HE THANKS US FROM THE BOTTOM OF HIS HEART and is fortunate that technology is what it is today. Wihout a doubt, on his own with no chance of aid, he would have been in big trouble.

The humor of the morning was that when I told him of the potential weather to the North(may or may not rain here) we laughed hard that "It figures it might rain right after water is delivered to him !"

So he is about a 6 miles to the first of many fish camps on the coast and hopes he can make it by days end. He has water to keep Don-Kay, Solo and himself going for a 3-4 days.

It was the best I could do and I will continue to monitor his position at the end of today. He was reminded not to forget the end of day position....

Here is where they were when the panga with water arrived:

They are four miles from Punta Blu along the coast and about 2 more miles to Santa Catarina.

Barry A. - 11-20-2010 at 02:42 PM

Thank Gawd for happy endings for a tense few days.

That coast looks "cliffed out" to the south---------so where does he go from here, back up the canyon he just came down? or does anybody know?

Barry

David K - 11-20-2010 at 02:44 PM

I would like to hear from Neil as to why he headed up the canyon in the first place...?

Good question Barry... is it back up the canyon to miss some cliffs... or hug the coastline???

BajaRat - 11-20-2010 at 02:45 PM

Thanks David for all your work. Its great to have a resorce and friend like you. I'm sorry we did'nt have a beer that night at Mama's place.Next time we'll really have something to cheer.
Lionel

Cypress - 11-20-2010 at 02:49 PM

David K., Thanks for the update.

Yep, water is one of those necessary things. Gotta have it.

David K - 11-20-2010 at 02:50 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaRat
Thanks David for all your work. Its great to have a resorce and friend like you. I'm sorry we did'nt have a beer that night at Mama's place.Next time we'll really have something to cheer.
Lionel

I am happy to help... it wasn't much more than I usually do, which is nice to see has some value, anyway!

I am (naturally) near El Camino Real and Mission San Luis Rey, if you pass by on your way north or south, stop by if you need a break when we are here!

BajaRat - 11-20-2010 at 02:58 PM

Thanks,
I think Michelle, Erin, and Mister would probably prefer a camp fire on Shell Beach! :bounce:

BajaRat - 11-20-2010 at 03:19 PM

Where in the world is BajaGringo :?:

Keri - 11-20-2010 at 03:38 PM

Awesome Just plain awesome So glad everything turned out so great. Thanks to everyone involved and to everyone that was following this and putting out prayers and positive energy every little bit helped .k :bounce:

David K - 11-20-2010 at 03:45 PM

Okay, except for a final word from Ron (BajaGringo)... I think this thread is done...

I will post the NEW 'A-OK' SPOT location back in the regular thread... and just think, all of this has happened in UNDER 24 hours!

Barry A. - 11-20-2010 at 03:49 PM

Well, I hope the problems are over for now, but I am still worried about where and how he goes on from here, at least until reaching the next Fish Camp----and then I believe it will be relatively clear sailing. There is some challenging terraign between where he is now, and the next camp, if only a few miles.

Barry

David K - 11-20-2010 at 03:55 PM

Yup... with renewed interest, we all shall be following Mike... Here is where the regular thread with his daily position and photographs can be found: http://forums.bajanomad.com/viewthread.php?tid=47853

BajaRat - 11-20-2010 at 03:56 PM

Oh David,
Contrare my friend contrare. I'm sure we can interject some sort of negative connotation and drag this one on for weeks! :lol:

Iflyfish - 11-20-2010 at 04:02 PM

Well done Nomads, well done!!!

Iflyfish

BajaGringo - 11-20-2010 at 06:09 PM

Well, glad to hear Mike is OK.

Last night when I went to town I ended up at the military base and they sent out a patrol to find him. I stayed there with them until about 2:30 AM last night monitoring the radio but the last communication was that they were not able to reach Mike's coordinates from the mesa above and the shore below was inaccesible from Puerto Catarina.

So very early this AM I picked up a friend who knows the area well and we loaded up with supplies and first aid gear. It is not an easy trip out there and driving the mesa from above we could not get close. We then made the trip around and headed down to the beach at the fish camp north of Puerto Catalina and walked as far north as the tide would let us. Looking at Mikes current location we probably got within a half km of each other before we could make it no further, In fact I am quite curious how he is going to keep making it south on his current route as it is very tight and hard going for Don-Kay as far as I could see.

Right now I am at the hotel in Catavina after we had made arrangements with the local delegation to head down with a team in the morning to try and reach Mike by sea.

Looks like all is OK and we can call off the cavalry so I will pack up and head back home.

Glad to hear Mike is OK but I am concerned about his current route.

PS - Thanks to my good friend "Duro" who served as my co-pilot and navigator today. His help in getting around down there was incredible. Otherwise I would probably be sending out a SPOT help signal right about now...

[Edited on 11-21-2010 by BajaGringo]

cjesme - 11-20-2010 at 06:15 PM

WONDERFUL, WONDERFUL NEWS!!!!!

Brian L - 11-20-2010 at 06:21 PM

Well done on your attempt, that was very kind to try and help!!!!

I think this whole story deserves a nod from the local newspapers about the decency and generosity from the folks here. Truly amazing the efforts you all went through.

Quote:

Originally posted by BajaGringo
Well, glad to hear Mike is OK.

Last night when I went to town I ended up at the military base and they sent out a patrol to find him. I stayed there with them until about 2:30 AM last night monitoring the radio but the last communication was that they were not able to reach Mike's coordinates from the mesa above and the shore below was inaccesible from Puerto Catalina.

So very early this AM I picked up a friend who knows the area well and we loaded up with supplies and first aid gear. It is not an easy trip out there and driving the mesa from above we could not get close. We then made the trip around and headed down to the beach at the fish camp north of Puerto Catalina and walked as far north as the tide would let us. Looking at Mikes current location we probably got within a half km of each other before we could make it no further, In fact I am quite curious how he is going to keep making it south on his current route as it is very tight and hard going for Don-Kay as far as I could see.

Right now I am at the hotel in Catavina after we had made arrangements with the local delegation to head down with a team in the morning to try and reach Mike by sea.

Looks like all is OK and we can call off the cavalry so I will head back home.

Glad to hear Mike is OK but I am concerned about his current route...

Barry A. - 11-20-2010 at 06:33 PM

bajaGringo---------WELL DONE!!! You went way beyond the normal, and I think would have saved the day had not you been beaten by the "other" team. There very easily could not have been "the other team". I am totally impressed with your effort, and time and money you contributed for your fellow man in need.

We won't forget this.

Barry

ELINVESTIG8R - 11-20-2010 at 06:34 PM

Ron I'm Happy to hear you are OK. I was worried.

woody with a view - 11-20-2010 at 06:37 PM

so do the boys at catarina know there is a crazy gringo to the north who didn't bring enough water and might need to be rescued, again? :light:

DianaT - 11-20-2010 at 06:41 PM

Ron,
Kudos----Knowing how you have jumped in with real help in the past, I am not surprised at what all you did---you deserve a ton of credit and I too am glad you are OK.

I sure hope Mike finds a safe way for him and that beautiful dependent donkey to get past where you see some real potential problems ---

Graham - 11-20-2010 at 06:46 PM

Just arrived in San Ignacio and accessed bajanomad to get the good news. A huge thank you to everyone involved from me and I`m sure all of Mike`s family.

Mike is one tough customer... what you`d expect from a former Navy Vietnam vet and El Cajon policeman... and he`s been living and planning this adventure for well over a year. As I`ve come to know him and seen the thought and preparations he was making I`ve grown in respect and admiration and was happy to help out every way I could.

He still has a tough task ahead to reach that first camp, and then I think we can relax as he picks up that road down the Pacific.

I agree with Astrobaja his burro needs a lot of water. I threw in that two or three gallons a day figure to make the point that the most likely scenario was Mike needed water and plenty of it to work his way through this. I just wanted to make sure that if a panga got to him they would have that in mind. Mike loves that donkey and there`s no way he`d abandon him. But he would need water to safely go forward or back. My burro Mision could last a day or two on a gallon or so and then he would tank up like a camel when he could.

Mike was well aware of the difficulties I had between San Carlos and Santa Catarina and the nature of the terrain. He read Into a Desert Place more than once. Mike is his own man and takes full responsibility for his actions... it was his decision to attempt that stretch rather than take the long hike out to the highway and then back to Catarina. He read and researched everything he could and even drove out to several locations on that coast to assess the situation for himself.

Anyway, just delighted that Mike is back in action. God speed you, Don Kay and Solo to that first camp and then the road. I think your adventures are an inspiration. And we're all going to learn a lot from this. What you've already done is a fantastic achievement... and has probably put years on your life!

Again, gracias to all those Nomads who were there for him.

[Edited on 11-26-2010 by Graham]

KASHEYDOG - 11-20-2010 at 06:48 PM

Great effort, Ron.. :yes:

..You're definitely someone we can count on when the chips are down. Kudos to you for your valiant effort. That was above and beyond the call of duty. We're all glad that this event has ended happily for all. Thanks for letting us know you're OK. Now we can end this thread. Next time I'm in San Quintin I'd like to get together with you for a shooter or two.

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 06:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Barry A.
bajaGringo---------WELL DONE!!! You went way beyond the normal, and I think would have saved the day had not you been beaten by the "other" team.

Well....it wasn't a contest, but it was a valiant effort by all.
You did good....really good, Ron. I'm proud and assured to have you as a bud. When and if I get into something not fun, I can be assured you'll be there to give me a hand.
Thanks, Pal.

I also want to give due praise to David for his logistical assistance, maps...distances and all around Baja know-how that is his forte. He gave all of us a sense of exactly where we and Mike were in this drama.
Thank you DK. You did good too.

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 07:12 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by lencho
Interesting point. The mere existence of things like this SPOT device has the potential to change the character of soul-twisting personal wilderness encounters into something bordering on reality TV.

--Larry

Only for those who make the purchase.
Interesting, your point. Hayduke would have had one. Abbey....probably not.

.

[Edited on 11-21-2010 by DENNIS]

Keri - 11-20-2010 at 07:32 PM

Ron , Glad you are ok. Worried we might have to send someone out after you also. Thanks for your valiant effort.Thanks mostly for your help and concern for your fellow man. Your a hero in my book,k :bounce:

[Edited on 11-21-2010 by Keri]

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 08:01 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Keri
Ron , Glad you are ok. Worried we might have to send someone out after you also. Thanks for your valiant effort.Thanks mostly for your help and concern for your fellow man. Your a hero in my book,k :bounce:

Mine as well. Thanks for saying that, Keri.

David K - 11-20-2010 at 09:27 PM

Glad you got online Ron... and Graham too... I hope we can rest easily tonight...

Just think, all of this drama unfolded and was solved in less than 24 hours from when we got the SPOT email alert.

I first got on the phone to Graham & Bonni's home to find out who the people in the SPOT message were and if they needed to be informed before I posted the alert here, and got a busy signal... It was Bonni on the phone to Shari... then she called me... So the three Nomads who were getting the SPOT alert were all communicating, nearly simultaneously!

Ron went into action and his efforts were awesome... soon the Solo Sports Resort people were in action... and even Antonio in Las Vegas helping with Itzel went into action!

Baja Nomads are about people helping people... and that is worth everything, yet to be a Nomad costs nothing!

The ultimate thanks go to Doug for keeping this web site online for so many years... we are all richer and happier for it!

bent-rim - 11-20-2010 at 09:50 PM

Hayduke would never have a SPOT, he was way too self sufficient.

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 09:57 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by bent-rim
Hayduke would never have a SPOT, he was way too self sufficient.

Probably so. Can't understand why, in your analysis, he ever needed a Jeep with a winch, but he had those.
Just a residual from his Special Forces days, I suppose.

bent-rim - 11-20-2010 at 10:07 PM

Being capable comes from being self sufficient. Having a SPOT requires help from others. I'm not a Hayduke, I've had to rely on friends on some arduous off/no road rides in Baja.

DENNIS - 11-20-2010 at 10:23 PM

Have to somewhat agree with you, BR. I guess it all depends on the definition of "capable." I always thought it would entail taking advantage of anything and everything that would lead to a planned goal, but I guess machismo has a place in the mix as well.

BajaGringo - 11-20-2010 at 11:01 PM

Just got home finally and thanks to everybody for their very kind words including those who called and left messages of concern/support on my phone. It was a very long 24+ hours on just a couple of hours sleep but in the end I am just glad to know that Mike and Don-Kay are OK and continuing on.

If you have never been out to that region it is hard to understand what a difficult area and situation Mike was/is in. The mesa is huge, steep above the beach below, with almost no access for miles and miles and very difficult to get around. Every road/trail/riverbed we tried ended up on a dead end or steep, impassable ledge, leading to a 20+ mile trip around to get to another point of attempt.

Giving up on reaching Mike via the upper route from the Catarina side we headed down to the Blue Point fish camp. We parked where the road ends and loaded up with some supplies, walking north along the beach for a few miles until we finally reached a point where it was impossible to continue with the rising tide. Before turning back we yelled out ahead, calling Mikes name in hopes that he might hear us but to no avail.

At that point I was really getting concerned and so we made the decision to head to Cataviña to meet with Chava at the Delagacion who was quite helpful, immediately grabbing his radio. In 20 minutes we had a complete team to head out in two pangas at first light in the morning with water, food, a stretcher and a paramedic with an ambulance standing by at Puerto Cataviña should Mike require medical aid. I was totally amazed at the support offered and if any of you pass through Cataviña and see Chava, offer him a warm handshake for his support he obviously provides to us while in his territory. He was even kind enough to invite us to dinner at his restaurant in town - great guy!

We did ask at every stop around the Catarina area about Mike and Don-Kay, including the fish camp and puerto in case anybody had seen them. I am sure that in the days that follow Mike will hear a lot of stories of a couple of guys trying to find him from the south end as he continues on.

We did get a lot of weird stares when we explained that Mike was coming from San Carlos, walking with a burro along the coast below the mesa. Nobody could believe it.

I hope that the road ahead is not quite so difficult.

God speed Mike...

[Edited on 11-21-2010 by BajaGringo]

David K - 11-21-2010 at 12:02 AM

It will have been ages since Graham walked that coast (without a burro)... like over 25 years ago.

When Graham walked with a burro in 1997, he stayed along Hwy. 1 in this part of Baja... He did try to use El Camino Real from the Cataviña area, past Mision Santa Maria and down towards Gonzaga Bay/ Coco's Corner enroute to the Calamajue mission site. Sadly, the Camino Real was too poor a trail for his donkey 'Mision' to walk... so back to Hwy. 1 and on south to San Borja mission they went.

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