BajaNomad - Sailor Abby Sunderland, 16, in Cabo San Lucas for vessel repairs

Sailor Abby Sunderland, 16, in Cabo San Lucas for vessel repairs

BajaNews - 2-7-2010 at 10:24 PM

http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/outposts/2010/02/sailor-abby...

February 5, 2010
By Kelly Burgess
Photo by Ted Caloroso

Abby Sunderland arrived in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, in pouring rain on Tuesday to get some repairs done on her 40-foot sailboat, "Wild Eyes."

The 16-year-old reported that the vessel is having equipment issues -- the wind gauges have stopped working and the solar panels and wind generators on board are not creating enough power to keep up with energy needs.

The Thousand Oaks teen was met by her father, Laurence, as well as members of Team Abby, who flew down to lend a hand with the necessary repairs.

In the meantime, Abby has been keeping busy -- when not working on the boat -- posting pictures and updates on her blog. Here's an excerpt from her latest post:

----
I got in Tuesday afternoon in the pouring rain.

The work on the boat is going as well as can be expected. We couldn't get a whole lot done on Tuesday because it was getting late and raining pretty hard, but six o'clock this morning we were all hard at work and luckily the weather has been sunny and warm all day!

The dock master of the marina was very excited to have us here and is letting us stay in an apartment over the office so we can be closer to the marina.

I met another young sailor today, Emily, and it has been really great hanging out with her a little. So few younger people sail and even less girls do. Its nice to get to know people who are doing similar things and talking to someone who knows what it is like.

----

The boats' power systems will be shored up before Abby departs southward for Cape Horn. Upgrades are expected to take several days, but she plans to get back underway as soon as possible.

abby-sunderland-cabo-feb2010.jpg - 29kB

desertcpl - 2-8-2010 at 09:32 AM

very interesting,, I think I will follow her blog

wessongroup - 2-8-2010 at 11:12 AM

Had seen the blurb on departure, looks like a good shake down cruise.. not too bad of problems it would seem.. made it to Port... way to go.. and good luck.. that's a long way... around the world, even with GPS, Sat Phone, SPOT and all the rest.. good young "salt" ... looks ok to me

[Edited on 2-8-2010 by wessongroup]

BajaNomad - 2-8-2010 at 11:38 AM

http://abbysunderland.com/

Bajahowodd - 2-8-2010 at 11:52 AM

I certainly wish all the best for this young woman. But I must say that the amount of retro/ repair work done in Cabo makes me wonder what these people were thinking/ doing when she originally set sail.

Rescue underway for missing US sailor, 16

pacside - 6-10-2010 at 02:25 PM

fyi...I hope there is a good ending to this...
pacside

Rescue underway for missing US sailor, 16: reports
(AFP) – 1 hour ago

LOS ANGELES — A 16-year-old US sailor attempting a daring solo voyage around the globe has gone missing in the Indian Ocean, US media reported Thursday citing her family.

A rescue effort was launched off the coast of Madagascar early Thursday after young adventurer Abby Sunderland ran into mountainous seas and emergency beacons on board her sailboat were triggered.

Sunderland, from the Los Angeles suburb of Thousand Oaks, was believed to be hundreds of miles from land with the nearest ship around 400 miles away. A rescue effort was being coordinated by the Reunion Islands and Australia.

She set sail in January amid criticism that her itinerary was too risky because it would place her in the Indian Ocean during the turbulent Southern Hemisphere winter.

Her father Laurence Sunderland told outdoor sports blogger Pete Thomas that he lost contact with his daughter during a satellite phone call early Thursday before being notified by the Australian Coast Guard that both of his daughter's emergency beacons had been activated.

"Everything seemed to be under control," her father was quoted as saying on the blog (www.petethomasoutdoors.com). "But then our call dropped and a hour later the Coast Guard called."

One of the beacons is attached to a survival suit or life raft and is only to be used when a person is in the water or aboard a life raft, reports said.

ABC News quoted an engineer on Sunderland's support team as saying the youngster's boat -- "Wild Eyes" -- had been knocked down twice during the night because of strong winds. Radar had been ripped off the boat during one of the knock-downs, engineer Jeff Casher told ABC.

Sunderland herself had posted an ominous update to her blog late Wednesday, where she wrote that she was preparing for rough weather.

"The wind is beginning to pick up. It is back up to 20 knots and I am expecting that by midnight tonight I could have 35-50 knots with gusts to 60 so I am off to sleep before it really picks up," she wrote.

Sunderland had been bidding to follow in the footsteps of her elder brother, Zac, who arrived back in California in July last year to a hero's welcome after circumnavigating the globe in a 13-month voyage.

Zac Sunderland had been 16 when he set out on the journey, turning 17 in November 2008 before arriving home eight months later.

However Abby Sunderland's journey had been criticized in some quarters as too dangerous.

Prominent Los Angeles Times sports columnist T.J. Simers accused Sunderland's parents of "child abuse" for allowing their daughter to go ahead with her voyage.

"Why is any 16-year-old allowed to place herself in harm's way? Why would any parent allow such a thing?" Simers raged, describing Sunderland's mission as "outrageous, ridiculous, incomprehensible insanity."

In a recent interview with ABC, the Sunderlands defended their encouragement of their children's sailing exploits.

"Could there be a tragedy?" mother MaryAnne Sunderland said. "Yeah, there could be. But there could be a tragedy on the way home tonight, you know, or driving with her friends in a car at 16. You minimize the risks."

BornFisher - 6-10-2010 at 02:45 PM

I won`t pass judgement on her parents here, just hope she survives.

Really have mixed emotions about this

Dave - 6-10-2010 at 06:14 PM

I hope she's found alive but:

Jeezus...She has a dream, at thirteen, of solo-circumnavigation and then three years later sails off in a fully found, 40 foot boat???

Why shouldn't we question her parent's judgement?

Same for the kid who just climbed Everest.

Here's a far different story from a different, simpler time:

http://www.bluemoment.com/dove.html

Packoderm - 6-10-2010 at 08:54 PM

I can hardly believe American kids are doing this. I thought only Australia was the land of the brave, and they're a nanny state too. I really liked the story in Dave's link. It seems much more daring to try this before all the electronics communications and safety devices. To keep all this in perspective though, Robin Lee Graham was 17 when he started his circumnavigation. His parents were just as crazy for letting him sail as they would have been for letting him fight in Vietnam if he had wanted to do that instead.

BillP - 6-10-2010 at 10:24 PM

Seems to me folks ought to be putting out positive energy, prayers, etc, for her safe return.

Save the blame game for later.

David K - 6-10-2010 at 10:38 PM

A lot of teens 'run away' at 16... this one has a GPS, and tons of support... at least her parents KNOW where she is! :rolleyes:

AmoPescar - 6-10-2010 at 11:49 PM

JUST ON THE 11PM NEWS in San Diego...

Searchers had made contact with her...She's ALIVE!! :bounce:

No explanation yet as to why she had set off her EPIRB's and what her problem is. I'm sure we'll hear more about it tomorrow.

Miguelamo :yes:

JESSE - 6-11-2010 at 12:40 AM

Hope shes OK.

comitan - 6-11-2010 at 05:21 AM

Abby is Fine!
We have just heard from the Australian Search and Rescue. The plane arrived on the scene moments ago. Wild Eyes is upright but her rigging is down. The weather conditions are abating. Radio communication was made and Abby reports that she is fine!

We don't know much else right now. The French fishing vessel that was diverted to her location will be there in a little over 24 hours. Where they will take her or how long it will take we don't know.

More updates as news comes in.

Laurence & Marianne

capt. mike - 6-11-2010 at 05:51 AM

who pays for the rescue services??
is this an insurance thing?
any long haul sailors here?
yachties?
just curious.
int'l waters - who's responsibility for addressing danger risks?

vandenberg - 6-11-2010 at 05:55 AM

European papers say she's found and alright.

stevelaubly - 6-11-2010 at 06:57 AM

Here's a link to the story... http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/abby-sunderland-teen-sailor-found-...

Hook - 6-11-2010 at 07:30 AM

Geez, she's gonna be picked up by a bunch of French fishermen???

Her problems are just starting............... :rolleyes:

oldlady - 6-11-2010 at 07:33 AM

Let's look at the bright side...maybe they'll get there before the Somali pirates do.

Iflyfish - 6-11-2010 at 07:56 AM

Rescued, she is alive!

http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/06/11/teen.sailor/

Iflyfish

AmoPescar - 6-11-2010 at 11:27 AM

SHE HAS BEEN FOUND AND IS ALIVE...BUT,

her MAST is broken. The rescue search plane which spotted her communicated with her. She is ADRIFT with no engine power, but she's in good health and OK!

Rescuers are coming from east and west, but rough weather is slowing them down. The French fishing boat believes it should reach her location within 24 hours - tomorrow am.

Miguelamo :spingrin:

BajaBlanca - 6-11-2010 at 11:36 AM

I think they will reach her today, Friday, if I understood correctly

the blue moment story is..incredible

[Edited on 6-11-2010 by BajaBlanca]

AmoPescar - 6-11-2010 at 11:54 AM

The San Diego news just reported not until 11:00 am TOMORROW.

The rescuer's had said the bad weather and sea conditions were slowing their progress.

Miguelamo

LancairDriver - 6-11-2010 at 02:02 PM

Good to hear she is safe.
Now who will pay to haul her hundreds or thousands of miles in to a port for repairs? The Australian taxpayers? The French government? The fishing boat owner who reportedly has to travel 40 hours on the way to her rescue?
These adventurers seeking fame and fortune with risky ventures should be required to post a bond or buy insurance to cover the costs of saving their butts when they frequently get in trouble. This is not to mention the risks involved for the rescuers.

Hook - 6-11-2010 at 03:36 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by LancairDriver
Good to hear she is safe.
Now who will pay to haul her hundreds or thousands of miles in to a port for repairs? The Australian taxpayers? The French government? The fishing boat owner who reportedly has to travel 40 hours on the way to her rescue?
These adventurers seeking fame and fortune with risky ventures should be required to post a bond or buy insurance to cover the costs of saving their butts when they frequently get in trouble. This is not to mention the risks involved for the rescuers.

Why? We pay taxes to support these governmental bodies to do just this, even when they sit on their butts in between rescues and burn no fuel.

It's about time someone got some return on the promises of governments.

Besides, it's good practice.

Bajahowodd - 6-11-2010 at 04:29 PM

There appears to be two parallel issues here.

Of course, no one with a sane mind would hope anything other than this young woman be safe. Second, and again involving sanity, what's up with the parents encouraging a 16 year old to attempt such a mission?? I have a daughter, who was once 16. Geez.

I'm thinking, that in some form, we are actually looking at child abuse for the sake of a meal ticket. Lest anyone overlook the idea that if this 16 year old girl circumnavigated the globe solo, that she would have tons of money at her fingertips.

Barry A. - 6-11-2010 at 04:37 PM

Quote:

----as a long time member of SAR teams (but not any more) I totally agree with the "bond" idea. That is an excellent idea, and should be required of all extreme sports participants that might require "rescue".

LancairDriver has hit a home run with this one. :yes:

Barry

bajalou - 6-11-2010 at 06:52 PM

If you have a Spot unit, insurance for rescue costs up to $100,000 is available for less than $10 a year.

Much Ado about Nothing Much

MrBillM - 6-11-2010 at 08:14 PM

Given the infrequency of events like this, the actual costs for the response is pretty insignificant.

No Big Deal. An added Quarter to the average taxpayer ? Probably not even that.

capt. mike - 6-12-2010 at 05:40 AM

reminds me of the 12 (or was she 7?) year old girl (Jessica something?) several years ago who was trying to be the youngest to fly across the US. her father was on board as supervisor but her job was to do all the flying, i don't recall but i think a CFI was on board too.
they crashed on a leg out of WY dicing with crummy weather and all aboard killed.
the Mother was following the flight by auto as i recall - i can't imagine her horror to lose both.

my kids would not be sailing solo across the world until he/she reached the age of majority. there is a reason the courts assign minority vs majority status - the human brain is still devloping whilst a teen angel and ability for rational and mature thought is not at zenith.

i think these parents are too liberal in their approach to allowing their kids unfettered access to adult activities.

who even says they have a right to be rescued? if a ship decides out of mercy to pick them up it is up to them to invoice and try to collect or not.

or - is it a code of mariners to render assistance as/if they can when receiving a SOS? i have no idea no marine experiences.
except when Alex boat broke down once 17 miles off the point and we were adrift for 6 hours....that was certainly fun!! :yes:

You're OK, I'm OK and .........

MrBillM - 6-12-2010 at 10:02 AM

She's OK.

It would have made for a better story with a different ending, but that's life (and not death). She had better luck with Big Waves than those folks in Arkansas.

And, they never left the shore. Well, not intentionally.

All's Well that Ends well and it leaves more time for Joran coverage.

comitan - 6-12-2010 at 10:10 AM

Well she's ready and wanting to do it again. In my opinion she is a very experienced and capable sailor. Hopefully if she does it will be on a better prepared boat.

Dave - 6-12-2010 at 10:53 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by comitan
Hopefully if she does it will be on a better prepared boat.

1. This was a sled...a racing boat. While I'm confident it had every safety feature money can buy it's a boat built for speed, not safety. Abby was out to break records.

2. The route chosen is extremely dangerous. Sailing the open Southern ocean is crazy scary. Most sailors with lifetime experience, except racers, avoid it.

What her parents did is akin to buying an Indy car and entering her the 500. Probably more dangerous.

DENNIS - 6-12-2010 at 10:57 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Dave
What her parents did is akin to buying an Indy car and entering her the 500. Probably more dangerous.

It must cause mixed emotions buying life insurance on a sixteen year old daughter.

wessongroup - 6-12-2010 at 11:58 AM

Quote:

Must agree, for those who wish to engage this type of event.. they should be fully responsible for ALL.. Period.. I don't want even a quarter of my money spent on rescues ... period.. you got there, so you get back... period..

Can really care less about someone 13 climbing Everest, going around the world to set a record (for what)... and all the rest.. that get themselves into terrible situations which put others at risk and cost a very lot of money to keep folks ready to save them .... from themselves and/or parents

capt. mike - 6-12-2010 at 12:57 PM

just saw her rescue is worth $167,000 and Australian taxpayers will foot it.

time for a walk-a-bout....

Cypress - 6-12-2010 at 01:06 PM

Glad they saved the kid. I'm sure her parents are happy? Did they have a life insurance policy on her? I'm sure they did. Who was the beneficiary?

LancairDriver - 6-12-2010 at 05:16 PM

I just watched her understandably happy father thanking the rescuers for a job well done. He didn't mention anything about having them send him the bill though.
Maybe the coming book and appearance money could help? :lol:

Cypress - 6-12-2010 at 05:28 PM

Her family is very lucky, she's alive and safe.

DENNIS - 6-12-2010 at 05:38 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Cypress
Her family is very lucky, she's alive and safe.

So is she.
The parents have to answer the question, "Why did you allow this?"

The book deal is probably deluted.

comitan - 6-12-2010 at 07:19 PM

e 12, 2010
A Note from Abby
Hey everyone,
Sorry I haven't written in so long as you probably already know I had a pretty rough couple of days. I can't write much now as I am typing on a french key pad as well as trying to stay seated in a bouncy fishing boat.

The long and the short of it is, well, one long wave, and one short mast (short meaning two inch stub.) I'll write a more detailed blog later, just wanted to let every one know I am safe and sound on a great big fishing boat headed I am not exactly sure where.

Crazy is the word that really describes everything that has happened best.

Within a few minutes of being on board the fishing boat, I was already getting calls from the press. I don't know how they got the number but it seems everybody is eager to pounce on my story now that something bad has happened.

There are plenty of things people can think of to blame for my situation; my age, the time of year and many more. The truth is, I was in a storm and you don't sail through the Indian Ocean without getting in at least one storm. It wasn't the time of year it was just a Southern Ocean storm. Storms are part of the deal when you set out to sail around the world.

As for age, since when does age create gigantic waves and storms?

I keep hitting the wrong keys and am still trying to get over the fact that I will never see my Wild Eyes again. So Ill write more later.

Abby

Kids say the darndest things

Dave - 6-12-2010 at 07:35 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by comitan
am still trying to get over the fact that I will never see my Wild Eyes again.

Thousands were concerned for her safety and she's mourning her boat.

Profound. :rolleyes:

Barry A. - 6-12-2010 at 08:20 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Dave

Quote:

Originally posted by comitan
am still trying to get over the fact that I will never see my Wild Eyes again.

Thousands were concerned for her safety and she's mourning her boat.

Profound. :rolleyes:

I don't think she is responsible for the fact that, "thousands are concerned for her safety"--------and of course she is mourning the loss of her "home" (which her boat has been for months). I understand completely, and I too am relieved that she is ok, but I don't have any inclination to play the "blame game" for any of this mishap.

She is a scrappy kid, and I like that.

But, like I said before, I believe folks like this should be required by international law (whatever that is) to post a bond before trying something like this.

Barry

bajalou - 6-12-2010 at 09:07 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by Barry A.
But, like I said before, I believe folks like this should be required by international law (whatever that is) to post a bond before trying something like this.

Barry

And EVERY sailor leaving a port should have to post the same bond. Many times more money is spent rescuing drunks and fools with boats than this incident.

The Coast Guard reports that 95 percent of all sea rescue missions occur less than 20 miles from the shoreline.

I rest my case----

The Sculpin - 6-12-2010 at 09:28 PM

A bond?
What a crock!
You guys should be ashamed of yourselves!
Hey, we're all baja travelers, we prepare for the worst, we carry all sorts of gear and double and triple replacement parts in case we mess up. We pride ourselves on our ingenuity, our toughness, our McGyver-ness. How many of us "posted a bond"! Flip side - we had a great trip, but we encounter a fellow traveler who might not have been as prepared as us, or just had bad luck. We go out of our way to help them and make sure they can go on their way safe. Do we ask them how to collect on their bond?!? How many of our friends tell us we are foolish, crazy, or have a death wish for wishing to venture to baja, or the mainland, or wherever we're going? We go anyway, because we are confident in our abilities, we've done our homework. How is Abby any different?!?! After all we have been through, and all we've been warned about, how can we possibly question Abby's or her parents motive? It's the same as ours!!!! I have had 3 16 year olds, and I have to say I would much rather have had one or two try singlehanding around the world instead of what they ended up doing! I am totally, solidly with DavidK on this one. If your kid is capable, has the desire and she (or you) has the resources, how can you say no?!?! Different time, different place, but at what age do you think Columbus, or Drake, of Cook learned to sail the open ocean? Look it up!

Sin Tax ?

MrBillM - 6-12-2010 at 09:43 PM

While I agree with Barry more often than not, it's probably not a coincidence that he was in law enforcement and embraces the idea of Control over civilian activity.

I completely disagree with the idea of a Bond or Insurance, BUT They "could" impose a HUGE tax on registering the EPIRB.

While it "might" discourage their purchase and use, that's OK, too. If you don't know they're in trouble, you don't need to worry about rescuing them.

Perhaps the Government could require Every Boater to be licensed and they could put restrictions on Minors as they are doing more and more often now with Driver's Licenses. No sailing beyond territorial waters without a licensed Adult on Board ? GPS Bracelets to catch cheaters ? Fashion-coordinated for females, of course.

Personal Liberties are so passe anyway. It's really the Government's job to take care of us. The sooner we accept that, the happier we'll be with the Nanny-State.

Barry A. - 6-12-2010 at 11:14 PM

I don't want "control" over the populace, I just don't want my budget busted because I have to spend umteen thousands on rescuing somebody that got themselves in trouble by taking pretty outrageous risks, or being stupid. Believe me it has happened more than once, and I just think it is irresponsible for folks expecting to be rescued at public expense when they get in trouble for doing dumb things. All the rest of us have to suffer when this happens.

I realize the "bond" idea will never fly, but I still think it is a good idea. As you may, or may not, know public agencies involved in these types of rescues are more and more going after the victims for financial reimbursement--------it is just a necessary fact of life.

This particular "rescue" effort compared to helping somebody in Baja is like comparing apples and oranges, to me-------totally different.

Barry

Jack Swords - 6-13-2010 at 06:11 AM

Some of the sailing community's point of view:

http://www.latitude38.com/lectronic/lectronicday.lasso?date=...

DENNIS - 6-13-2010 at 06:23 AM

When anyone of any age confronts the ravages of nature and pulls it off, they're called Intrepid Adventurers.
When nature wins the confrontation, they're called fools.

capt. mike - 6-13-2010 at 06:25 AM

AZ has the "stupid motorists law"
if you deliberately cross a blocked wash during a storm with our notorious flash floods, and you and your car gets swept away - you get a huge fine for rescue and you have to PAY the rescue bill, which is thousands usually.

every year it happens and a few die.
guess they go to Darwin's heaven..... :light:

what happened to her boat? isn't it fixable? isn't it worth $$??
why is it not getting towed?

jorgie - 6-13-2010 at 06:41 AM

Interesting to know her latitude , she refers to the 'Southern Ocean ' .....meaning the roaring forties in nowwhere . Hopefully the rescue crew sunk the sailboat having managed to collect her personal things like log and photos etc .
She sounds in good spirits , a good thing .

Busting The Budget ?

MrBillM - 6-13-2010 at 09:55 AM

I'd like to see some statistical confirmation of THAT. While this type of rescue comes about Once in Awhile, I'm skeptical that the frequency and amounts involved have placed or are placing a burden greater on the taxpayer than buying a newspaper now and then.

If, after the fact, the responding parties want to seek restitution, Fine. That's up to them and the courts. As pointed out, they do it now.

As far as her boat goes, if past practice is any indication, it's floating around on its own somewhere. Under the conditions that exist when these rescues are required, it would be a foolish captain that attempted to take a damaged vessel in tow. I've towed in open ocean during moderate seas, mild in comparison to those, and it can be a challenge.

I have read on numerous occasions where Salvers searched out the vessels when they thought the value was worthwhile once the weather abated. Otherwise, they generally just float along until they sink, someone stumbles across them or they make landfall on their own.

As far as the definition of WHERE the Southern Ocean's NORTHERN Boundary lies, there is NO universal agreement, but since it is generally South of Australia and her location line when distress was indicated appears to be South of Australia, it could be claimed that it was in the Southern Ocean or the Southern Indian Ocean, which has also been noted.

Not that it matters. Sea conditions like she encountered (and worse) have been found off the California Coast time and again.

From an Australian News Site:

"Abby's location was pinned at 42 degrees south, 2033 nautical miles south-west of Perth, in the nautical zone of French protectorate La Reunion. But her yacht drifted into Australian waters after noon on Friday, when Australian maritime authorities took charge of the rescue".

[Edited on 6-13-2010 by MrBillM]

comitan - 6-13-2010 at 03:31 PM

2010
Aboard the Ile de la Reunion
Everything is going well out here. I'm still getting used to walking around on board and it takes both hands to keep myself from falling up and down the narrow halls. I'm still having trouble typing on this key pad but I've got a few more days to get the hang of it.

Everyone on board has been really friendly. They have come a long way out of their way to help me and I am so thankful that they did. My mom has told me about all that the different rescue groups did to help find me. So thank you to all of you. I had only hoped that a ship would pass by me within a few weeks. I am really in awe. Thank you to everyone involved.

The captain is a big, friendly, bald guy with a big beard. He speaks English pretty well and he says, "Is no good to worry about the boat. Is just a boat, you is safe. You should not think about the past." Which is true, but its hard to keep my mind off everything that's happened.

Everyone in the bridge has been fending off the press and I'm very grateful for that. I really don't want to start doing interviews quite yet.

I have started writing. At first I decided that I wasn't going to write a book. But then I started to think about all the good times Wild Eyes and I have had together. All that's left of the voyage of Wild Eyes are my memories, eventually they will get fuzzy and I won't remember all the details. I don't want that to happen. Wild Eyes and my trip have been the best thing I have ever done or been through and I don't ever want to forget all the great times we have had together, or the bad ones for that matter.

The story of Wild Eyes is over, but my story is still going. I'm still out on the ocean headed to a little island called Kerguelen and then will be on another boat for ten days up to an island near Madagascar. From there I will eventually make it home.

So, on goes my adventu

A note from our blog moderator: Please be patient with as we go through over 12,000 comments that have come in during the last 3 days. We are getting through them as quickly as we can.

[Edited on 6-14-2010 by comitan]

[Edited on 6-14-2010 by comitan]

Bajahowodd - 6-13-2010 at 03:48 PM

I said it before. This is a quote from the website link that Jack Swords posted.

"From the ghetto, Fiddy Cent rapped that he was going to "Get rich or die tryin'." We suppose this is the Thousand-oh-so-close-to-Hollywood-Oaks' version, which might be titled 'Get famous or die tryin'. We're sure glad Abby didn't die. As for becoming famous, she's gotten even more of it than she could have dreamed of. In fact, you have to feel sorry for Watson who, despite being the one who actually accomplished her goal, has now been upstaged by Abby's failure. In the minds of experienced sailors, however, we think Abby Sunderland is going to be famous, not for her sailing, but for having been played for the fool by her irresponsible parents."

comitan - 6-13-2010 at 05:47 PM

I edited Abby's to reflect moderators comment, that they where behind because of 12,000 comments in the last 3 days I guess she has gotten a lot of attention and a book is forthcoming.

The Sculpin - 6-13-2010 at 08:01 PM

Sorry jack - but "irresponsible parents"? Oh please! If this was the work of "irresponsible parents", Abby would have turned back a loooooong time ago! Sorry, but this girl has guts, and I hope she continues pushing the envelope in any damn way she pleases. What is the matter with you people! :mad:

Someone demonstrates adventurism, and you call it opportunism. Quit being so cynical and enjoy the adventures she has experienced, and the adventures she will experience. :light:

Honestly, have any of you read Fatu-Hiva!?!?!?! :fire:

[Edited on 6-14-2010 by The Sculpin]

capt. mike - 6-14-2010 at 05:56 AM

Location: Outer Space

well that explains it!
hahahahaha....

Jack Swords - 6-14-2010 at 07:01 AM

Sculpin: "Sorry Jack"? I simply posted material from a respected cruising site. I also used the word "some". Posting such material does not make me an advocate either way, but adds information to the topic being discussed. I never take a stand on this board as it soon deteriorates into name-calling and political arguments. In fact, like many seasoned Baja folks I rarely post now. I just is not worth the effort to participate anymore.

LancairDriver - 6-14-2010 at 08:10 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Jack Swords
Sculpin: "Sorry Jack"? I simply posted material from a respected cruising site. I also used the word "some". Posting such material does not make me an advocate either way, but adds information to the topic being discussed. I never take a stand on this board as it soon deteriorates into name-calling and political arguments. In fact, like many seasoned Baja folks I rarely post now. I just is not worth the effort to participate anymore.

Jack- Thanks for the link to a site that has some input from people who actually have "been there, done that" and know what impossible conditions this ill fated voyage was up against.
Maybe in the days it takes the fishing boat to haul her to civilization some of the hype and glamor will have worn off and it will just be remembered for the failure with a lucky ending that it was.

capt. mike - 6-14-2010 at 08:42 AM

aren't her parents wealthy experienced RTW yachties?
didn't they know of the dangers in Indian Ocean this time of year?
a trawler i could see like a Nordhaven 54' running twin diesels....

but a racing sailboat?
they are way too lax with their parental responsibility. She is a minor.
are no licenses required to set out into int'l waters?

mtgoat666 - 6-14-2010 at 08:48 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by bajalou

Quote:

Originally posted by Barry A.
But, like I said before, I believe folks like this should be required by international law (whatever that is) to post a bond before trying something like this.

Barry

only old people would say something so stupid.

and old people like low and barry cost more money too. old people should just be terminated at age 65 to save money for us young people.

mtgoat666 - 6-14-2010 at 08:55 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Barry A.
I don't want "control" over the populace, I just don't want my budget busted because I have to spend umteen thousands on rescuing somebody that got themselves in trouble by taking pretty outrageous risks, or being stupid. Believe me it has happened more than once, and I just think it is irresponsible for folks expecting to be rescued at public expense when they get in trouble for doing dumb things. All the rest of us have to suffer when this happens.

I realize the "bond" idea will never fly, but I still think it is a good idea. As you may, or may not, know public agencies involved in these types of rescues are more and more going after the victims for financial reimbursement--------it is just a necessary fact of life.

This particular "rescue" effort compared to helping somebody in Baja is like comparing apples and oranges, to me-------totally different.

Barry

barry, if you reduce your arguments to "facts of life," the fact is you old people cost more to society than you contribute. i don't want any of my tax dollars wasted on stupid, old or unhealthy people like barry.

barry, if you reduce your arguments to "facts of life," the fact is you old people don't drive as well, poor reflexes, yo know? i don't want you endangering youth on the road. why do we allow you to drive?

in fact, i say as soon as old people are more of a burden than a contribution, if you don't work, or require public transport, it is time for gas chamber.

mtgoat666 - 6-14-2010 at 08:59 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Barry A.
I don't want "control" over the populace, I just don't want my budget busted because I have to spend umteen thousands

I, I, my, I,...

barry, you make it sound like it is your money. it is not your money. it is our money. id don't think you work, so perhaps the "our" does not include you."
when old people say stupid stuff, perhaps their right to vote should be taken away, eh?

comitan - 6-14-2010 at 09:08 AM

Not even a drop in the bucket compared to what Government blows every minute of every day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

The Nautical Nanny

MrBillM - 6-14-2010 at 09:37 AM

The USCG has the authority to prevent a voyage from being undertaken, or at least, prevent the voyage originating from a U.S. port. It is used in "Extremely" Few very flagrant instances.

So far.

Barry A. - 6-14-2010 at 09:46 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by comitan
Not even a drop in the bucket compared to what Government blows every minute of every day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Of course you are right, but it is still money (ie part of the problem) and it is being spent on things that simply are not the publics responsibility, in my opinion. I certainly want the SAR activities to continue (most are voluntary anyway) but I also want people that take these extreme risks to also assume some responsibility.

-----and it IS my money, in two ways. (1) I pay taxes too----and (2) I was responsible for the budget of my Ranger organization in El Centro, and when we expended money on un-planned activities (ie. SAR) we had to save money in other ways to make it up, and the public services were the areas that we ALWAYS cut back to make it up----thus everybody who normally received those services, didn't. (of course some would say "who needs the services", and I understand that)

Thank Gawd for the voluntary SAR groups, as they encountered the bulk of the expenditures, but it was still our basic responsibility to coordinate and participate in most SAR activities in our area on Public Lands. The Sheriff has the legal responsibility, and bares a lot of the costs, also. (more tax money)

I just was making a point-------and many don't agree, I know. We all have our own perspectives. I just believe in "personal responsibility" and less Govt. responsibility as a viable and sustainable system.

Barry

longlegsinlapaz - 6-14-2010 at 10:02 AM

Goat, you are such a jerk!!! I don't know....nor do I care....how old you are. If your parents & grandparents are still alive, do they fall into this "old" category you feel should be exterminated?

Did you ever stop to think that those you are calling old, stupid, at deaths door, a drain on society....just might have a helluva lot more actual life experiences which have helped mold their views on all kinds of different things you've yet to experience & some things you'll never experience because you were born too late? On a pro-rated basis, the older generation has contributed more to society & more in tax dollars than you have at this point in your life!!

The delicious irony is that with each disrespectful keystroke of each & every rude post you make....YOU'RE just that much closer to becoming one of the "stupid, worthless old people" you feel should be exterminated at 65!

Stop the irrational personal attacks & maybe try to remember what I assume your parents & teachers attempted to instill in you when you were little...."respect your elders!" "Do unto others...." or in your generations terminology, "If you can't say anything nice...." then put a sock in it! :yes:

mtgoat666 - 6-14-2010 at 10:12 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by longlegsinlapaz
Goat, you are such a jerk!!! I don't know....nor do I care....how old you are. If your parents & grandparents are still alive, do they fall into this "old" category you feel should be exterminated?

old long legs,
i only say those things to show barry how ridiculous he is.
:lol:

The Sculpin - 6-14-2010 at 10:28 AM

Sorry, Jack Swords. My bad. I apologize. I was way too hasty in my response and glossed over a few things. I have breathed into a paper back, knocked down a dirty martini, and had a few other "helpers" to calm things down.

Come on, Mike - come join me in outer space - the view is fantastic from up here, and much quieter than a turboprop!!

Response from the sailing community

Dave - 6-14-2010 at 11:10 AM

Worth a reprint:

The tremendous news is that 16-year-old Abby Sunderland of Thousand Oaks, who set off two EPIRBs deep in the Southern Ocean yesterday from her Open 40 Wild Eyes, has been located in good health by a Qantas airliner chartered by the Australian government. While her boat, which has five watertight compartments, has been dismasted, Sunderland reported over the VHF that she was in good shape. Hopefully she can stay that way for the next 24 to 36 hours until one of three French fishing boats, whose crews presumably have better things to do than risk their lives rescuing fame-struck teenage girls, can save her. Word is expected at any moment from stage parents Laurence and Marianne Sunderland that the very first proceeds from their daughter's upcoming book and movie deals will be used to generously compensate the crews and owners of the fishing boats who are risking their own lives to save their daughter's.

There is delicious irony in the Australian government — and therefore Aussie taxpayers — coughing up the dough to charter the Qantas plane that found Sunderland. It was less than one month ago that most Aussies, and their blow-in-the-wind political leaders such as Prime Minister Kevin Rudd, went ga-ga over 16-year-old Aussie Jessica Watson's having become the youngest person to have almost sailed around the world non-stop and singlehanded. (Her course was a little too short to meet the criteria, but who wants to split hairs?) One wonders how many times Rudd and his countrymen and women will be willing to charter Qantas jets to find 16-year-olds eager to put it all on the line in search of a spot on the cover of People magazine before the practice becomes old and overly expensive.

The reaction of Abby's parents — who, based on public opinion, seem to be frontrunners for 'Worst Parents of the Year' honors — to the possibility that their young daughter might be dead was illuminating. They seemed to think that if Abby had died, well, all of life is a risk, and she could just as easily have been killed on the 405. Boy, who wouldn't love to get into a poker game with folks who calculate the odds the way they do? And to think they would ante up their daughter's life making such a bet. And make no mistake, none of this "Abby's lifetime dream since she was 13" rubbish would have been possible without the undying commitment and encouragement of her parents.

As we read many of the comments to various media about Sunderland's EPIRBs going off, we were reminded of how ignorant — perhaps understandably so — the general public is about sailing and sailing around the world in particular. Most astounding were the number of commenters who believed that Sunderland had been picked off by Arab pirates! Indeed, some thought she had become a victim of the white slave trade as opposed to the weather. Little did they realize that icebergs were a 1,000 times greater threat to Abby than were pirates. Others speculated on how difficult it was going to be to find Sunderland, given that the area she was in — between Antarctica, South Africa and Australia — is as big as Russia. Not quite clear on the near pinpoint accuracy of EPIRBs and GPS, are we?

What many sailors don't even seem to realize is the amount of risk that Sunderland's parents were willing to expose their daughter to. After all, there are ho-hum circumnavigations, and then there are difficult circumnavigations. Abby's brother Zac's trip around was the former. Shepherded by his parents at great expense, he went around on a route that many people have done on tight budgets and without any assistance. Heck, Berkeley's Serge Testa did it on a homebuilt 12-footer. Such circumnavigations are not to be sneezed at, but they normally aren't that hard. The difference is that most circumnavigators don't make such a big deal of it, such as spending the last night at Emerald Bay on Catalina in order to give the press a chance to congregate for the really big media fest at Marina del Rey the next day.

As we've written before, Abby's circumnavigation was like climbing Mt. Everest compared to Zac's, which was like climbing Mt. Tam. Her attempt was to not only be non-stop, but non-stop via the Southern Ocean. That 16-year-old Jessica Watson was able to accomplish that is a truly remarkable feat, and a credit to both her and the durability and reliability of her S&S 34 Ella's Pink Lady. As silly and completely stupid as we think age-based record setting is, there is no denying what Watson accomplished.

In order to get into the non-existent record book — World Speed Sailing Association as well as Guiness and many others won't accept age-based records because of the risks — Abby had to start her circumnavigation at the wrong time or she would be too old. When you sail around the world, even the easy way, you do it by the seasons. That's even more important when going around the hard way. When the great maxi French mulithulls attempt around the world records, their window is always November to about March. Why? Because as Adrienne Cahalan, navigator on Playstation's record circumnavigation said, "You don't sail in the Southern Ocean in the winter." You just don't do it. Not the Volvo, not the Vendée, not The Race, not nobody. If the world's greatest sailors will wait a full year just to stay out of the Southern Ocean in winter — when there are gales 30% of the time as opposed to 5% of the time in summer — you'd think the parents of a 16-year-old minor would make their daughter do the same. But then more than a few parents have been blinded by the lure of the possibility of their child becoming famous.

From the ghetto, Fiddy Cent rapped that he was going to "Get rich or die tryin'." We suppose this is the Thousand-oh-so-close-to-Hollywood-Oaks' version, which might be titled 'Get famous or die tryin'. We're sure glad Abby didn't die. As for becoming famous, she's gotten even more of it than she could have dreamed of. In fact, you have to feel sorry for Watson who, despite being the one who actually accomplished her goal, has now been upstaged by Abby's failure. In the minds of experienced sailors, however, we think Abby Sunderland is going to be famous, not for her sailing, but for having been played for the fool by her irresponsible parents.

capt. mike - 6-14-2010 at 11:21 AM

"Come on, Mike - come join me in outer space - the view is fantastic from up here, and much quieter than a turboprop!! "

hahaha of course i would! anytime - beam me up! i am all for meating the aliens... :biggrin:

but now what i want to know is what's a mulithull?? is that a boat with a bad haircut??

comitan - 6-14-2010 at 11:30 AM

"Response from the sailing community" This commentary was written by Richard Spindler who is the owner of Latitude 38 a sailing Rag.

In addition...

Dave - 6-14-2010 at 11:57 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by comitan
"Response from the sailing community" This commentary was written by Richard Spindler who is the owner of Latitude 38 a sailing Rag.

Spindler was a competitive sailor having logged thousands of sea miles.

What's your "blue water" experience?

comitan - 6-14-2010 at 12:32 PM

Dave

Do you want me to write a book?

I had every copy of latitude 38 before I started coming to Mexico.

Nah

Dave - 6-14-2010 at 02:21 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by comitan

Do you want me to write a book?

Just want to know, based on your experience, why you think his opinions aren't credible.

comitan - 6-14-2010 at 02:26 PM

Dave

I sure don't know where you get that, I agree with him completely!

Apologies

Dave - 6-14-2010 at 02:42 PM

I thought you were dissing the guy.

desertcpl - 6-14-2010 at 03:16 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by comitan
"Response from the sailing community" This commentary was written by Richard Spindler who is the owner of Latitude 38 a sailing Rag. [/quote

I agree with him, me and the wife did some sailing also, and used to read lat 38, nice read.

WTF was the parents thinking,, looking out for themselfs with the expence of their young daughter,,would this be considered child abuse?

[Edited on 6-14-2010 by desertcpl]

desertcpl - 6-14-2010 at 03:26 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by comitan
"Response from the sailing community" This commentary was written by Richard Spindler who is the owner of Latitude 38 a sailing Rag.

I agree with him, my wife and I did some sailing and used to read Lat 38, nice read.

WTF was the parents thinking , looking out for themselfs with the expence of their young daughter, would this be considered child abuse?

well thats my take on this

[Edited on 6-14-2010 by desertcpl]

tripledigitken - 6-14-2010 at 03:43 PM

The parents are currently the topic of a reality TV series........................ :rolleyes:

mtgoat666 - 6-14-2010 at 03:55 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by desertcpl
WTF was the parents thinking , looking out for themselfs with the expence of their young daughter, would this be considered child abuse?

some 16 year olds are quite mature, some aren't. don't judge the sailor chick based on the immaturity of your own 16 year old :lol:

I applaud the parents for raising a child capable of doing what she did, particularly in light of the many 16 year olds who cannot even be trusted to be left home alone overnite or trusted with parents car keys!

i think it's great if a 16 year old sets out to break a record, travels the world alone, does admirably, and survives to tell her tale.

(here is a sailor that started young: did you know that Joshua Slocum ran away from home at age 14 to sign on to a fishing vessel, and permanetly left home at age 16 to sign on ship as merchant seaman?)

perhaps it irks you that the kid and her parents know how to self-promote. the reality is that most people that set out to set endurance records have to promote themselves to fund their endeavors.

all sailing competitors are either self-promoters to gain financial backing for their full time sailing careers, or they are wealthy and able to fund their part-time sailing hobby. sailing at high level for long duration requires $$, and nothing wrong with beating your chest to drum up $$.

the chick rocks!

[Edited on 6-14-2010 by mtgoat666]

DENNIS - 6-14-2010 at 04:07 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666
the chick rocks!

Chick???? She's 16. :?:

16-Year Old Chicas

MrBillM - 6-14-2010 at 04:52 PM

Sweet 16s.

Goat's got it right for once.

I remember quite a few mature 16-Year Old Gals.

And, the one under discussion looks mature enough.

Jack Swords - 6-14-2010 at 04:53 PM

Thanks Sculpin, I figured as much. I know you from your postings to be a fair person and I do understand and tend to agree with you. I would hope that we can continue to challenge ourselves without interference from gov't or others. That, I assume would apply to most of us who travel in that dangerous land called Baja.

mtgoat666 - 6-14-2010 at 06:19 PM

Joan of arc first went to war at age 16, leading troops no less!

were her parents irresponsible?

The good old days

Dave - 6-14-2010 at 06:36 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666
Joan of arc first went to war at age 16, leading troops no less!

were her parents irresponsible?

And back then it wasn't unusual for even preteen girls to marry.

Your logic escapes reality.

Frenchy Joan

MrBillM - 6-14-2010 at 07:25 PM

But, Joan of Arc was a Religious Nutcase, wasn't she ? Of course, the Sunderland family is said to be devout, too.

On the other hand, I also heard (can't remember exactly where) that Joan was carrying a grudge against men because they found her unappealing due to an excess of Body Hair and she took out her frustration and anger by hacking them up in the name of God.

That may (or may not) be accurate.

Latest news from the Sunderland camp

Dave - 6-14-2010 at 08:16 PM

Negotiations underway for a reality series. :rolleyes:

Was just wondering................

Hook - 6-14-2010 at 08:29 PM

.............did the estate of Steve Fossett pay for the search for his whereabouts?

If not, I guess it's OK for the gubmit to pay if your rich...........or die. Never heard a peep about it.

Barry A. - 6-14-2010 at 08:43 PM

Don't know about reimbursement, but they finally did find Steve Fossett's aircraft (and body), I believe, near the minerettes north of Mammoth in the Sierra Nevada, if I remember correctly.

Barry

hook what i recall

capt. mike - 6-15-2010 at 08:08 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Hook
.............did the estate of Steve Fossett pay for the search for his whereabouts?

If not, I guess it's OK for the gubmit to pay if your rich...........or die. Never heard a peep about it.

was the family actually paid privately for an extended search including times and area covered beyond the "normal" SAR you get as a public service. so after a point they were paying 100% of the bills. 'course they could... :lol:

Barry A. - 6-15-2010 at 08:53 AM

Did a little very casual research on Steve F.disappearance-----------never found the body, but did find Steve's personal effects like ID, wallet, etc. Speculated that wild animals (bears, coyotes, cats, etc.) made short work of the body. Aircraft wreckage indicated direct and fast collision with side of mountain----Steve probably never knew what hit him (speculation). A packpacker was the one that finally found the wreckage, strickly by chance, and it was a long time after the accident (or suicide??).

A trajedy for sure. Steve was a true NOMAD-TYPE guy.

Barry

comitan - 6-15-2010 at 09:51 AM

ANSWERS TO THE CRITIC.

We are so thankful once again for all of you who understand and support Abby’s spirit of adventure and for those of you who have the humility to give the respect that Abby and her team of experts deserve. It is impossible to answer every criticism. There are so many who are only hearing of Abby for the first time and who, due to a lack of understanding and knowledge, accept what the media is saying without question or without discerning that they could be wrong or the motives of those involved may not be sincere. We will attempt to comment on several themes of concern:

LETTER FROM THE AUSTRALIAN SEARCH & RESCUE

Can you put a message on your blog informing your readers that the Australian government has not requested any recovery cost for Abby’s search and recovery. In fact the Govt here has been in the media and stated that fact several times. I doubt this got coverage in the US.
Australia like the US have always responded to requests for help and have provided whatever resources are required. At no stage have we asked for cost recovery. Likewise domestic search and rescue have never requested payment for services. If a person wishes to make a contribution to the costs then that is their call. It is not expected or asked for.

The cost recovery stuff is a beat up by the media. They do it every time. Don’t get sucked in by it. Unfortunately some of the comments I have read on some blogs seems to paint Australians as a bunch of tight arses who will only rescue people if they have a cheque book. This has never been the case as you have found out.

Let’s not let the media hijack a good story. Likewise don’t become a victim of it by playing into their hands.

Bottom line is, don’t get sucked in by the media. I would like a clarification on your blog just letting your readers know that the Australian Government has not requested payment nor would they. Let’s not let the media portray the many groups that were involved in Abby’s rescue as a bunch of people motivated and driven by money. This is not the case.

-Search and Rescue Volunteer Perth.

REALITY SHOW

Laurence and I were approached by Magnetic Entertainment last year before Abby departed to shop a reality TV show based on our family. Abby's trip was already sponsored. Their idea was to do an inspiring show about Zac and Abby’s adventures, what our family was like and what made them as strong and independent as they are. The show was shopped and not sold. All rights were returned to us. There is no reality TV show or documentary in the works and we will not be persuing one. We find it ironic that the media, who are spreading gossip and sensationalizing Abby’s story for profit, have the nerve to criticize us for supposedly doing the same thing – very ironic.

TOO FAR SOUTH, TOO LATE IN THE SEASON

Abby's trip was being watched and guided daily by Commander’s Weather, a team of meteorologists that have been routing sailboats around the world for 30 years. Their clients include professional sailors such as Steve Fossett, Ellen MacArthur and PUMA Ocean Racing.

From meteorologist Ken Campbell:

1st, we would not have been involved in this project if we thought this was a publicity stunt or Abby was not capable

2nd, Abby more than proved that she was fully capable, so if everybody agreed to continue, we were on board with you

3rd, we have refused many projects and clients - we have over 6000 clients, but we will not work with somebody that is not capable or does something we consider too dangerous

We were late crossing the Indian Ocean, but I felt Abby was fully capable. Do we handle sailors crossing the North Atlantic in December? Sure, but they follow our rules and we push them as far S as possible and avoid headwinds. We tried to keep her as far N as possible, but there is such a thing as too far N and the worst situation of all would be headwinds and we did avoid those.

Very few people have ever forecast weather there (the southern Indian Ocean), let alone route sailboats. This storm was not unusual for that location, for that time of year and the strategy was the best there could be for that situation

You are great, loving and caring parents, with a remarkable daughter and most of all, she is safe to try again! She is a fine example of the true human spirit! That is what should be celebrated, not criticized. By the way, she is 16, not 8.
Posted by Abby Sunderland at 9:07 AM 0 comments
Sunday, June 13, 201