BajaNomad - Solo Rower ELSA HAMMOND in the Calif-Hawaii Race now heading for San Diego

Solo Rower ELSA HAMMOND in the Calif-Hawaii Race now heading for San Diego

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shari - 7-22-2014 at 11:13 AM

I received a most interesting phone call from Steve Bullock from the UK. Steve heads up the support team for Elsa Hammond who was rowing in a race from Monterrey to Hawaii. Elsa has been plagued with problems and has decided to turn around and will be making landfall here in Bahia Asuncion...we hope.

Read all about Elsa and track her voyage here. She is an amazing woman and I cant wait to meet her and hear all about her adventure.

http://www.elsahammond.com/

We will be assisting her with logistics of getting here safely and planning a big baja welcome for her. We hope to have the Navy standing by and contact other possible vessels in the area to assist her if the need arises. She is rowing with a repaired oar she hopes will hold out and is battling high winds and big seas.

If all goes well, she will arrive sometime around the second week of August...just in time for our Traditional Fiestas so her boat will possibly be on display then.

Steve is flying into San Diego on July 29th from the UK and gets into the airport at 6:25. I thought it would be neat if some Nomad/s might be able to meet him there and put him up for the night.

Also, it would be fantastic if someone gave him a ride part way or all the way here...the stories would be very entertaining...in case anyone is heading down the baja on July 30 or 31st.

We're pulling for you Elsa and hope you get here safe and sound!

[Edited on 7-22-2014 by shari]

[Edited on 8-1-2014 by shari]

micah202 - 7-22-2014 at 11:28 AM

.
...ahh,yes,,,had noticed a straggler on the tracker,,someone wayyy off the pace and to the SE.
...and yes ,,there's a tropical storm running past Hawaii--just in time for the rowers plus not one but 2 sailboat races to Hawaii

...from Elsa.....''Hello everyone, You may have noticed the silence and lack of any westward push over the last couple of days from me and Darien. Things have been busy here with phone calls, emails, and lots of difficult decision-making.

Given the tricky conditions I have been facing since the beginning, and particularly the impossibility of making enough westward progress into headwinds, I’m much further south and further behind schedule than planned. I am being advised that, even if I do manage to punch my way westward against the wind and waves from this position, the likelihood of meeting volatile weather (tropical cyclones, hurricanes) ''

shari - 7-22-2014 at 11:36 AM

smart woman for deciding to turn tail...sometimes ya just gotta know when to say uncle.

micah202 - 7-22-2014 at 11:37 AM

.
....indeed....she's probably a surfer at heart..''why go against the flow''!!??

micah202 - 7-22-2014 at 11:50 AM

.
....here's the tracker.... http://www.elsahammond.com/progress/

...there's apparently still opportunity to sponsor these miles...but maybe that's a bad suggestion--seems she's using previous donations for a mexico vacation!! :tumble:

shari - 7-22-2014 at 11:55 AM

I really liked her mission of people sponsoring a mile in the name of an admired woman and she does alot of charity work for women's equality groups.

micah202 - 7-22-2014 at 12:09 PM

.
..I'd definitely put her down as a 'woman I admire',,,if I hadn't already spent this month's donation fund :rolleyes:

...not only is she courageous to take on the pacific,,,but smart enough to know when enough is enough,,and pack-it-in......wise indeed! :yes:

Ateo - 7-22-2014 at 06:03 PM

Incredible. What an amazing individual. This is gonna be an interesting thread I reckon.

I may be down in BA when she arrives.

Shari, why'd she pick Bahia Asuncion to return to? I know it's a great place but was curious if there was a back story.

OT: I listened to a great podcast today about Navy sonar and whales beaching themselves. At the end they talked about Ojo de Liebre and what an awesome experience can be had there. I thought of you.

[Edited on 7-23-2014 by Ateo]

BajaBlanca - 7-22-2014 at 06:21 PM

Oh my gosh! What an amazing woman......the winds have been so strong, she must be overwhelmed. Thanks for sharing and wish we were north and could help out!

bullox - 7-23-2014 at 01:11 PM

Hello folks, Steve here - Elsa's fiancée and Campaign Manager.

Thanks to Shari and all for such a warm welcome to Baja! Elsa's heading as directly to the mainland as possible, and the most likely landing point at present is Bahia Asuncion - some time in the next 2-3 weeks!

We'd love to have any and all present to welcome her in - sorry I can't give a more accurate date or location, but I'll keep you up to date in this thread!!

Currently looking for support with customs - need to make sure the paperwork is in order so we can get Elsa and boat back to CA for shipping out. Any connections appreciated!

Best wishes, please see www.elsahammond.com for full details!

Steve xx

shari - 7-23-2014 at 06:32 PM

hahaha I love your name Steve...bullox...funny! Welcome to Baja Nomad and we look forward to updates from you here.

Anybody in San Diego near the airport willing to meet Steve at the airport and put him up for the night. We are looking for a ride down for him or he will take the bus from TJ.

RenoJoe - 7-23-2014 at 11:16 PM

The soonest I can leave Reno is the 4th of august. If I can help I will

Skipjack Joe - 7-24-2014 at 08:44 AM

Guess she was born to be free.

micah202 - 7-24-2014 at 10:14 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by Skipjack Joe
Guess she was born to be free.

...definitely born in a rowboat,,,according to her bio

http://www.elsahammond.com/elsa/

bullox - 7-24-2014 at 10:33 AM

Hehe Shari, my surname's Bullock, so it fits

although when Elsa and I tie the knot we're considering Hammock

Skipjack Joe, is that a lion cub reference?? I hadn't heard of it til my dad started going on about it!!!

All welcome to come celebrate her return - hopefully going to be a big party! How's about a welcome fleet of paddle and surf boards?

bajabuddha - 7-24-2014 at 10:37 AM

Better keep an eye on this rogue cyclone tracking up the peninsula; it's more than just the storm itself, the winds and weather effect a large circumference for hundreds of miles around it. Hope she's not heading into the jaws of another SNAFU. Does she have support vehicles nearby if needed?

shari - 7-24-2014 at 10:42 AM

this may be a problem for her...there are support vessels at the ready and with a repaired oar it may break again if she rows in heavy seas. I noticed on her tracking site she lost 3 nautical miles in the last 2 hours...poor girl.
http://www.elsahammond.com/progress/
I am going to go talk to the Navy here and see if they have a suggestion in case she needs help. She is not far from Guadalupe Island.

[Edited on 7-24-2014 by shari]

[Edited on 7-24-2014 by shari]

bullox - 7-24-2014 at 11:48 AM

Thanks for all the support and advice. Would definitely be great to have the option of support if needed, but please don't take any action without confirmation from Elsa via me!

Her boat is built to take whatever the Pacific can throw at her, up to and including this sort of weather. She has a 5-point harness in her cabin and will ride out most roller coasters that may come her way. She's currently on sea anchor with waves breaking over her deck but is safe and happy.

Lesson learned from Roz Savage's first Pacific attempt - an enthusiastic supporter called the coastguard and the first she knew about it was a heli overhead!!

Would very much appreciate the option - please send any contact details and advice to steve@elsahammond.com.

Thanks so much everyone!
Steve x

bullox - 7-24-2014 at 12:03 PM

Been looking at several different forecasts and likelihood is that system will head west or WNW. Elsa may expect some waves but winds are looking pretty easy for the next 14 days, after her current high winds subside Friday evening.

I'm monitoring closely, and everyone's support is very much appreciated!!

shari - 7-24-2014 at 12:44 PM

We spoke to the pilot that flies seafood from Guadalupe to Ensenada and he gave us the number of the fishing coop there to call in case of an emergency...nice there is an island close by!

Wonder what Elsa is reading? I can just picture her world...harnessed in all round...rocking and rolling listening to waves crash over the boat...smiling.

sancho - 7-24-2014 at 01:35 PM

A bit astray, but ran into a guy in Dana Point, Ca. harbor this
morn, holding court at the kayak beach, and rightfully so, he is stand paddling from the Canadian border, Wash. State, to the Mex border at TJ

shari - 7-24-2014 at 06:25 PM

I just spoke to Steve who just got off the sat-phone with Elsa who was holed up in her bunk with the sea anchor out in big seas so she is unable to row, which explains the loss of miles. She has Isla Guadalupe in sight and is seriously considering turning back and landing there.

So we are helping set plans in motion to have a boat assist her into shore, haul her boat out somewhere safe or anchor it out until a way can be figured out how to get it back to either the peninsula or the states.

bajabuddha - 7-24-2014 at 11:41 PM

Shari, send love from Nomads and best wishes. You truly hold the Spirit of Baja (Espiritu Baja) in your heart. Bless you.
bb

shari - 7-25-2014 at 07:51 AM

Will do....hey that's a good name for a bar...er boat! Espiritu Baja.

speaking of the Nomad spirit...there must be someone who could take a couple hours out of their busy days to meet Steve at the San Diego airport on July 29th...his flight from the UK will arrive around 6:25. He would probably like a good nights sleep before getting on a night bus for TJ or maybe he wants just to blitz it and come straight over the border to grab the night bus to Vizcaino....any takers?

I will give a free room to anyone giving him a lift here too!

skipowell - 7-25-2014 at 02:30 PM

Hola Shari

just saw this thread today. I will be in San Diego Tuesday and can pick him up from airport and put him up for a night. We are heading to. Mammoth on Wednesday but can get him to boarder before we leave. let me know if you would like our help
Jeff and Lori Powell
Ps Shari we stayed at one of your rentals a couple xmas ago!

shari - 7-25-2014 at 02:34 PM

Thanks so much skipowell...I just talked to Steve and one of the rowers in the race is going to pick up Steve and put him up for the night so we are now covered...still looking for a ride down for him.

Elsa is 40 miles south of Guadalupe and now has to head north again to get there...looks like she had some weather from that front that moved north yesterday so that might help push her north or not.

She wants to row in on her own steam and just get some assistance hauling out and then will look for a way off the island. They are still planning on coming here to recuperate.

BajaBlanca - 7-25-2014 at 05:53 PM

ugly storm yesterday surely did not help her at all. 40 miles is a long haul. we wish her all the luck and they have made a good choice to head to Asuncion.

skipowell that was so great of you to offer! That's the Baja Spirit Espiritu Baja

shari - 7-26-2014 at 08:28 AM

It has been difficult to arrange assistance for Elsa on Isla Guadalupe. A flight there from Ensenada to pick her up is $2,000 US dollars!!!! not to mention the challenge of finding a ride for her boat.

Just a thought, but if any of you pilot types have any ideas or want to post this on Baja Bush Pilots...perhaps someone may be willing to pick her up for less...just a thought. We are racking our brains trying to come up with options.

Today's mission is to find out if there is a tuna boat in her vicinity who may be willing to pick up the boat and her and bring her to wherever they are going or drop her off somewhere a bit more accessible than Guadalupe Island.

Any fresh ideas or contacts are welcome!

mtgoat666 - 7-26-2014 at 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by shari
It has been difficult to arrange assistance for Elsa on Isla Guadalupe. A flight there from Ensenada to pick her up is $2,000 US dollars!!!! not to mention the challenge of finding a ride for her boat.

Just a thought, but if any of you pilot types have any ideas or want to post this on Baja Bush Pilots...perhaps someone may be willing to pick her up for less...just a thought. We are racking our brains trying to come up with options.

Today's mission is to find out if there is a tuna boat in her vicinity who may be willing to pick up the boat and her and bring her to wherever they are going or drop her off somewhere a bit more accessible than Guadalupe Island.

Any fresh ideas or contacts are welcome!

how do the island residents get to/from the island? when in rome, do as the romans do.
for air charter, ASG should be able to fly their 402 from GN.
island locals must have a supply boat a couple times per year, should be able to ship boat on that, eh?

on the cheap could probably hitch a ride with cruising sailboat or san diego sport fisher if you got time to wait,... the long range sport boats from san diego must pass by occasionally, call them.

BajaRat - 7-26-2014 at 02:39 PM

2163.5 to Hawaii or a cold refreshing drink in Baja California waters............
Hope shes taking pics and stayin out of the bitey deep end..
Is she on shore Shari............. don't try to say that three times fast :lol:

shari - 7-26-2014 at 04:34 PM

I have spend a few hours checking prices and the 402 from GN was $10,000 US dollars..not pesos...whew...the cheapest flight I found was a guy who flies seafood from Ensenada to Guadalupe...problem is there arent any flights now as abalone is over and lobster hasnt started...it would be $2,000 US dollars.

There is a Navy supply ship that goes there every 2 weeks and the shark diving boats start their trips on Aug.4th. They are usually full bit she may be able to sleep on deck.

today's news is that Elsa cannot make any northwest headway at all...she has been slipping backward for 3 days and is becoming apparent that she may not be able to make it to land under her own steam...so her support team will shift gears to have her picked up and hopefully either load or tow the boat somewhere depending on what vessel rescues her. We are hoping the race organizers will step up to the plate with their boats and plan B is to contact tuna boats or long range...it's not as easy as it sounds.

She is about a hundred miles from Cedros Island which is the next closest landfall. In the meantime I hope she enjoys the sunsets!

It would be nice to get her off the water before this new storm comes to town.

I'm waiting on a call from the race director to determine our next move.

805gregg - 7-26-2014 at 06:05 PM

The US Coast Guard has the right to stop unsafe voyages, they should have stopped her

micah202 - 7-26-2014 at 08:45 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by shari
We are hoping the race organizers will step up to the plate with their boats and plan B is to contact tuna boats or long range...it's not as easy as it sounds.

I'm waiting on a call from the race director to determine our next move.

...I'm thinking 'plan B'....was following some details about the race on a sailboat forum--it seemed that the organizers were rather disorganized at best for the support they had available--probably -long- gone with the main fleet.

....I'll try putting a call-out at the sailing forum just in case there's some traffic from SanD.

micah202 - 7-26-2014 at 08:49 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by 805gregg
The US Coast Guard has the right to stop unsafe voyages, they should have stopped her

...yeh well whatever....the coasties would have stopped a well prepared set of rowers in incredibly seaworthy boats?......me no think so,,there was nothing 'manifestly unsafe' about the rowers.
..sounds like she's safe,,,well prepared--but tired and ready to get on terrafirma.

[Edited on 7-27-2014 by micah202]

shari - 7-27-2014 at 07:04 AM

I think Elsa underestimated the power of the Pacific currents, wind and waves for a solo rower. I noticed the other boats had more than one oarspeople which would make a huge difference.

thanks Micah, that would be great but a sailboat would have a tough time towing the 24' boat a long distance I imagine.

BajaBlanca - 7-27-2014 at 07:12 AM

I bet she is again disappointed she can't do it on her own. Wishing her the best of luck as this unfolds.

micah202 - 7-27-2014 at 08:21 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by shari
I think Elsa underestimated the power of the Pacific currents, wind and waves for a solo rower. I noticed the other boats had more than one oarspeople which would make a huge difference.

thanks Micah, that would be great but a sailboat would have a tough time towing the 24' boat a long distance I imagine.

..actually,,,it seems like there were others.....it sounds like there was 2 women,,2 men solo rowers,,,but something gave her a late start,,,and headwinds all the way it sounds like --reminds me of the times I tried a bike-tour of scotland--headwinds every direction I rode! ....it's unbeleivable she is now even getting headwinds on her exit!
.........'' Out of the four solo rowers in the race (two men and two women) she was the last remaining by over a month. Her three broken oars (unheard of before) indicate how tough the weather was for her, and the statistics showing that she has rowed the furthest ‘miles per rower’ of any of the classic-class boats – even compared with the four-man crews – are testament to her efforts.''

...We'll see what happens with the sailing site,,,there's some pretty large sailboats,,,and connections beyond....I'm hoping for someone who knows someone who knows a boat passing that way from Cabo,,or back from the recent Transpac race.....who knows...........like nomads,sailors like to be helpful when they can-for the most-part anyways. :smug:

[Edited on 7-27-2014 by micah202]

Elsa's navigation

RSailor - 7-27-2014 at 09:05 AM

Quote:

Important to know actually. It's not clear if the problem is being underpowered, or just not navigating correctly, or both. Elsa seems to be have her own theories of navigation. Her boat has rarely been pointed in the right direction. She seems to be unwilling to turn broadside to the waves and row, essential for this trip, and done adequately by all the other rowers who stayed in this race.

micah202 - 7-27-2014 at 09:18 AM

.
...^^...methinks she had one of those ''bad days that doesn't stop ''.............a late departure for bad luck--3 broken oars--!!,,,,putting her into different weather patterns,,,,,then an unusually active season of tropical storms as many know.......wouldnt-yer-know-it,,there was a gal in a rowboat!!

....let's save the post-analysis until she's onshore at least--REALLY!!

[Edited on 7-27-2014 by micah202]

mtgoat666 - 7-27-2014 at 09:20 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by RSailor

Quote:

Her gps track does look odd compared to the other rowers.
Personally, I prefer sailing to rowing. If I was rowing, I would carry a sail rig or kite to deploy after I got tired,...

mtgoat666 - 7-27-2014 at 09:24 AM

Quote:

....let's save the post-analysis until she's onshore at least--REALLY!!

[Edited on 7-27-2014 by micah202]

I disagree. In the old days people went off on adventure and did not blog about it daily. Now that adventurers are compelled to write daily blog entries, I think continuous arm chair quarter backing and game analysis is not only expected but is demanded! Analyze away!
And if the rower does not want ongoing critique, then rower can quit blogging about it.

mtgoat666 - 7-27-2014 at 09:32 AM

Btw, I think she has guts to stick it out despite unfavorable results. She bested all the other solo rowers. She is 100x tougher/determined/focused than those 805gregg and Rsailor turkeys!

[Edited on 7-27-2014 by mtgoat666]

bajabuddha - 7-27-2014 at 09:47 AM

DITTO, GOAT !

I once watched a documentary in the '90's about an old goat named Norman Vaughan, who in the '20's was a dog-musher for the Byrd expedition to the South Pole. He got a mountain named after him in Antarctica; Mt. Vaughan. In the early '90's he attempted to take a team down and climb his mountain. Took 3 different attempts, each of the first two ending in disaster. The third attempt was tiny in funding and support, but at 78 years old, artificial hips and knees, he pushed-pulled his way to the top. Tearfully, frozen waterfalls down both cheeks off his chin, he said, "If I can pass anything on to the youth of today is, YOU HAVE TO DARE TO FAIL!". I sat there and bawled along with him, and right after, sold my home and business, took a year sabbatical homeless and unemployed on the road, and re-invented myself.

This li'l lady in that 5 point harness and sea-anchor has more moxie than I probably ever did, and I've lived hard. If I could aid this endeavor in any way I would; it would be an honor to support someone, win or lose in their quest, who has that much chutzpah.

Shari, when she gets to your digs, please give her an 'ATTA-GIRL!" for me.

Y'all remember the ''DARE TO FAIL'' bit.... I go back to it often and regularly.

jbcoug - 7-27-2014 at 09:59 AM

Buddha, Thanks for sharing the Norman Vaughan story, very impressive man and attitude! I'll definitely look into learning more about him.

bullox - 7-27-2014 at 10:03 AM

Hey folks,

Thanks for the amazing messages I've received publicly and privately, and thanks in particular to Shari for all of her support.

I'm passing on positive messages to Elsa, and will point her to the full discussion on her return to shore. It will definitely be an interesting post-match analysis, but for now we're focusing on the immediate concerns.

Very keen to hear and take on board all opinions, but please be aware that all decisions Elsa has made have been based on her evaluation of the conditions she's faced, which have been varied and often harsh, and she's been pushing herself incredibly hard.

Constructive comments, whether supportive or critical, are appreciated - but please phrase them bearing in mind that Elsa will be reading and responding at some point, and that she's attempted this challenge with bravery and lots of training and support!

Thanks again all,
Steve

Elsa's fiancée and Campaign Manager

bullox - 7-27-2014 at 10:05 AM

Thanks BajaBuddha, she'll love that!

BajaRat - 7-27-2014 at 10:13 AM

Is she on course for Isla Cedros ?

bajabuddha - 7-27-2014 at 10:43 AM

Señor Bullox;
Dunno how her Español is, but here's a little idioma that may brighten her day:

"Quien tienes los juevos? .... LA GALLINA TIENES!"

Translation: "Who has the eggs? The Chicken does!".... well, kinda means that.

RSailor - 7-27-2014 at 01:15 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by mtgoat666
....let's save the post-analysis until she's onshore at least--REALLY!!

Quote:

I disagree. In the old days people went off on adventure and did not blog about it daily. Now that adventurers are compelled to write daily blog entries, I think continuous arm chair quarter backing and game analysis is not only expected but is demanded! Analyze away!

And if the rower does not want ongoing critique, then rower can quit blogging about it.

The blogging is part of the commercial aspect of this enterprise. The dream may have been Elsa's, but the execution is a business venture.

The real time analysis has been done to in an attempt to save a rower. Elsa's position right now is actually very dangerous. This would not be apparent to someone who is not familiar with the California current and the prevailing winds off of Baja. She is at very high risk of being blown off of the coast and back out to sea, and she does not have the resources to survive a crossing, that is all. It is not a matter of courage or stamina.

Apparently, the organizers boat is in transit from San Diego today.

micah202 - 7-27-2014 at 01:21 PM

quote...RSailor...''
The blogging is part of the commercial aspect of this enterprise. The dream may have been Elsa's, but the execution is a business venture.

The real time analysis has been done to in an attempt to save a rower. Elsa's position right now is actually very dangerous. This would not be apparent to someone who is not familiar with the California current and the prevailing winds off of Baja. She is at very high risk of being blown off of the coast and back out to sea, and she does not have the resources to survive a crossing, that is all. It is not a matter of courage or stamina.

Apparently, the organizers boat is in transit from San Diego today.''

.....it sounds to be hopeful news if the organizer's got a boat going her way......if anyone the organizer's about the only 'commercial interest' going, but word was that they weren't all that 'together'

.

[Edited on 7-27-2014 by micah202]

Ateo - 7-27-2014 at 01:23 PM

Bullox: Baja Nomads can be a tough crowd. Don't pay attention to the negative comments. They always come.......

Elsa sounds like one tough lady. Kudos to her for getting out there and doing something.

DianaT - 7-27-2014 at 01:45 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by micah202

.....it sounds to be hopeful news if the organizer's got a boat going her way......if anyone the organizer's about the only 'commercial interest' going, but word was that they weren't all that 'together'

May they, or someone be successful in reaching her and bringing her safely to shore!! Keeping very hopeful thoughts.

After that, it will be interesting to hear more about the organizers as it does sound like maybe, as you say, they were not all that together. But again, first her safety is at the forefront!

bullox - 7-27-2014 at 01:47 PM

Thanks Ateo, no worries. Elsa's doing something visible and I guess that comes with the expectation of free comment! No problem with the armchair analysis, but will note that an armchair is a much different perspective to a rowing seat

With regards to the 'commercial' aspect - there really is none from our point of view. Elsa and I have taken time out of our day jobs for her to do this, have made a number of sacrifices, financial and personal, and neither of us are taking any pay or profit. Elsa's doing this for the challenge and the experience, and also supporting several great charities. All sponsorship and donations go towards core costs and the charities. If it's possible to continue to share her experiences in a personally sustainable way then I'm sure Elsa would love to, but there's much simpler ways to make one's fortune!

Elsa's blogging to share her experiences with friends and supporters who want to know what's going on, and to record her adventure for herself. I hope people have found her posts interesting! I bet that people would have loved to read about adventures 'in the old days', but adventurers weren't blessed with the advantage of satphones and the web!

Thanks again all,
Steve

BajaBlanca - 7-27-2014 at 01:56 PM

She is a real life heroine for even attempting this major feat!

BajaRat - 7-27-2014 at 01:56 PM

Senor Bullox, Is she on course for Isla Cedros ? How is she navigating ?
Thanks, Lionel

bullox - 7-27-2014 at 02:08 PM

Course and landing TBC, still dependent on wind and current. She had some rough weather over the last few days so has been on sea anchor. Will post details as soon as they're a bit firmer - sorry for lack of detail at present!

shari - 7-27-2014 at 02:12 PM

how did you find out the organizer's boat is on it's way? I talked to Steve a couple hours ago and it hadnt been confirmed yet.

BajaRat - 7-27-2014 at 02:23 PM

Bullox, How experienced is she in open water navigation ?
Some others have made mention of the California Current and the strong prevailing winds along this stretch,they are not to be taken lightly. For all intents and purposes as she experienced trying to row back to Isla Guadalupe she needs to use the aforementioned because she can't beat them.

RSailor - 7-27-2014 at 03:17 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by shari
how did you find out the organizer's boat is on it's way? I talked to Steve a couple hours ago and it hadnt been confirmed yet.

Try this:
sailing-to-pick-up-elsa-hammond

redmesa - 7-27-2014 at 05:38 PM

Sounds like this boat can do the job.

The boat is named Cloud Nine. She's a 57' Bowman Ketch that has rounded the world three times on expeditions and one of the first to completed the North West Passage while Roger Swanson was her captain. "Rare is the sailing resume that boasts 217,928 miles, three circumnavigations, multiple voyages through the Arctic and Antarctic and the first east-west crossing of the Northwest Passage by an American-flagged sailboat. Pretty impressive for a Midwestern-born pig farmer-cum-electrical engineer-cum-entrepreneur, but no one ever accused Roger Swanson, of Dunnell, Minnesota, of mediocrity. Swanson, who sadly passed away at the age of 81 on December 25, 2012 after a battle with cancer." Sailmagazine.com

She's beautiful and tough!

micah202 - 7-27-2014 at 05:44 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by redmesa

She's beautiful and tough!

.
.....talking about Elsa?....or the -potential-** tow-boat?

......**,,,with all variables involved,,I want to see things done and delivered with Elsa and Steve chillaxing at Shari's before -anything- is sure and confirmed!

shari - 7-27-2014 at 05:46 PM

Woo hooo....sounds like a road trip to Bahia Tortugas is in order if we cant convince them to come to Asuncion! Great news indeed

redmesa - 7-27-2014 at 05:55 PM

From the blog post it sounds like the agenda is to get to pick up Elsa, fuel and head to Hawaii to celebrate with the participants.

coolhand - 7-27-2014 at 07:49 PM

Does everyone have to end up in Asuncion? I be damned, but this girl probably wants to be elsewhere ASAP....

coolhand - 7-27-2014 at 07:52 PM

Like take me home ASAP!

RSailor - 7-27-2014 at 08:08 PM

Hurricane Hernan is headed in Elsa's general direction. She will probably see some wave action from that, but not the wind.

coolhand - 7-27-2014 at 08:15 PM

That's what we need to worry about. Not the Asuncion "famous" and their drinks an parties, but getting her home!!!! Wherever, no party needed.....

DianaT - 7-27-2014 at 08:17 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by coolhand
Does everyone have to end up in Asuncion? I be damned, but this girl probably wants to be elsewhere ASAP....

But it is always good for promotion and advertising. Nothing wrong with doing business.

:biggrin:

Wherever Elsa goes, we hope she is safe and has a good journey.

[Edited on 7-28-2014 by DianaT]

shari - 7-27-2014 at 09:48 PM

Ummm....excuse me but Steve called me and asked if they could stay at our place so Elsa could recover...the trailer for the boat wont be here till the end of the month...geeze.

micah202 - 7-27-2014 at 09:56 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by shari
Ummm....excuse me but Steve called me and asked if they could stay at our place so Elsa could recover...the trailer for the boat wont be here till the end of the month...geeze.

...sounds like a good plan...call it a pre-honeymoon!? :rolleyes:

bullox - 7-27-2014 at 10:12 PM

Wow, definitely a tough crowd! I got in touch with Shari as she's in a possible landing spot and has details online. She's been amazingly helpful and given a ton of advice and connections - thank you!

Support plans, landing point and onward recovery are all still TBC, but I'll share as things firm up. Looking forward to a possible visit to Baja - it does sound amazing! And Elsa and I only got engaged a couple of weeks before she set off so definitely a combo R&R/brief vacation is in order.

Thanks again all,
Steve

redmesa - 7-27-2014 at 10:30 PM

I was only mentioning what was said about the Cloud Nine ketch, the support boat. I really hope Elsa is in Bahia Asuncion when I arrive. It would be terrific to meet her.

desertcpl - 7-28-2014 at 09:21 AM

Cloud Nine

http://www.yachtworld.com/boats/1975/Bowman-CC-Ketch-57-2604...

Cloud Nine's AIS position

RSailor - 7-28-2014 at 10:25 AM

Go here: http://www.marinetraffic.com

and search on "338173139" (the MMSI number for THE "Cloud Nine").

or try this:

http://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/home/centerx:-117.3722/c...

Elsa has been out of range of shore based AIS for some time so she can't be found here. Cloud Nine will also drop off the map before intercepting Elsa. Cloud Nine should be able to pin point Elsa on their AIS box once in range.

redmesa - 7-28-2014 at 10:32 AM

That is an awesome site. Thanks for the something new to me, RSailor.

desertcpl - 7-28-2014 at 10:38 AM

yes it is a awesome site

desertcpl - 7-28-2014 at 10:43 AM

so how far south is Cloud Nine,, what is their ETA to intersect

with Elsa

elgatoloco - 7-28-2014 at 11:41 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by desertcpl
Cloud Nine

http://www.yachtworld.com/boats/1975/Bowman-CC-Ketch-57-2604...

That's quite a catch. :saint:

elgatoloco - 7-28-2014 at 11:43 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by desertcpl
so how far south is Cloud Nine,, what is their ETA to intersect

with Elsa

As of two seconds ago boat is here.

http://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/home/centerx:-117.3722/c...

RSailor - 7-28-2014 at 12:35 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by desertcpl
so how far south is Cloud Nine,, what is their ETA to intersect
with Elsa

(Correction) Loosely, 33 hours. About 5 am on the Wednesday the 30th.

It is not really clear that they will be able to tow the boat. It may end up being crew recovery only. That will be interesting.

[Edited on 7-28-2014 by RSailor]

micah202 - 7-28-2014 at 12:40 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by RSailor
It may end up being crew recovery only. That will be interesting.

...not sure what the problem would be...I'd expect the rowboat's set-up for towing and probably tracks okay,,,and the sailboat's sizeable enough,no?

RSailor - 7-28-2014 at 01:03 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by micah202

Quote:

Originally posted by RSailor
It may end up being crew recovery only. That will be interesting.

...not sure what the problem would be...I'd expect the rowboat's set-up for towing and probably tracks okay,,,and the sailboat's sizeable enough,no?

The sailboat wasn't even able to affect a crew transfer off of Monterey due to the seas. They ended up calling the coast guard. That won't be an option here. Please note my corrected ETA of 5 am on the 30th. (Oops!)

BajaLuna - 7-28-2014 at 01:20 PM

wishing everyone involved in this to stay safe!

thanks for all the updates!

elgatoloco - 7-28-2014 at 01:41 PM

RSailor - Elsa is quite a catch too! You are one luck hombre. I admire her for setting such lofty goals and pushing the limits and its a shame she had so many issues to deal with (three oars? who woulda thunk). I am inspired when folks try to do what seems impossible for many. If you don't try you cant fail! Good on her, and you. We are hoping for her safe return to dry land. Keep on keeping on.

:cool:

holy guacamole - Señor Bullox - you the lucky guy!

Rsailor - your the helpful one who has the luckiest wife in the world. My bad. Reading comprehension affected by longing for a way to get down to Baja and help, if only by opening the first cold beer when Elsa is safe.

As you were. :tumble:

[Edited on 7-28-2014 by elgatoloco]

RSailor - 7-28-2014 at 01:51 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by elgatoloco
RSailor - Elsa is quite a catch too! You are one luck hombre.

I think you are confusing me with Mr Bullox. I already have one too many wives. ;-)

[Edited on 7-28-2014 by RSailor]

elgatoloco - 7-28-2014 at 01:59 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by RSailor

Quote:

Originally posted by elgatoloco
RSailor - Elsa is quite a catch too! You are one luck hombre.

I think you are confusing me with Mr "Bullox". I already have one too many wives. ;-)

One too many! :lol:

micah202 - 7-28-2014 at 02:02 PM

Quote:

Originally posted by RSailor

Quote:

Originally posted by elgatoloco
RSailor - Elsa is quite a catch too! You are one luck hombre.

I think you are confusing me with Mr "Bullox". I already have one too many wives. ;-)

....heh,was wondering about that! :rolleyes:

...Fiancee=Steve='Bullox'

...RS...it sounds like you're on cloud 9,,the sailboat?...................if that's right--how many crew onboard?

BajaBlanca - 7-29-2014 at 08:11 AM

Going back to a previous comment, many sailors in the past kept detailed logs on their voyages...the only difference nowadays is that we can read them live. And profit from them in the immediate mode.

If she goes to Asuncion, I would love to go and meet this amazing woman.

redmesa - 7-29-2014 at 08:18 AM

Latest position of Cloud Nine.
http://www.marinetraffic.com/en/ais/home/centerx:-118.1084/c...

sd - 7-29-2014 at 08:32 AM

I heard a presentation by Roz Savage a few years ago in Newport Beach. She has rowed several Oceans. It was exciting to see her photos and hear her stories. She had a Coast Guard rescue shortly after leaving the California coast.

I hope this rescue/support mission goes well. Can be difficult towing a boat in open ocean waters.

micah202 - 7-29-2014 at 08:59 AM

Quote:

Originally posted by sd

I hope this rescue/support mission goes well. Can be difficult towing a boat in open ocean waters.

...yeh--here's hoping!

...assuming the tow boat is not equipped for anything solid -bouncing- against it...it'll either require an intermediate boat (inflatable) suitable for the conditions,,,or someone--either a crewperson from the towboat or Elsa herself to attach a stout tow-line to the rowboat,,,with a long length of lighter float-line,,so that the swimmer can make some distance from one boat to the other without engaging the 2 boats. Of course the towboat will need proper means of recovering a person from the water--a likely skill for a boat accustomed to ocean passages I believe.

.....For towing at sea,,,the longer and heavier a towline would do a lot to mitigate shockloads as boats engage with different wave-sets,,,this could be achieved by adding chain to a section of the towline...the trick is to have enough weight (usually cable) in a tow,that the towline -never- becomes fully taught!...this would be rather difficult if there's major wave action,,,good the recent TS has abated.

...it would depend on the volunteer/professional level that is being accorded to the recovery....... my impression is that Cloud9 are cruisers who have been asked and hopefully compensated to alter their cruising plans somewhat ,,so it's likely a 'minimum risk ' approach will be taken.......hopefully the conditions (and stars!) all line up perfectly with proper incentives,,,and a full recovery of both Elsa & boat becomes possible!.........All Speed!! :yes:

[Edited on 7-29-2014 by micah202]

shari - 7-29-2014 at 09:09 AM

Blanca et al...if Steve and Elsa do come to Asuncion for some well deserved R&R and pseudo advance honeymoon...haha...AFter they settle in and relax a bit, I would love to host a potluck party for them so we can all hear her stories together.

I will keep you posted here for a date...we'll make sure it's on a weekend so we can eat shrimp tacos too!!! :biggrin:

Everyone welcome...(even you Asuncion haters) :lol:

Steve is enroute to San Diego today...hooray! I sure hope they can tow the Darien...if not, plan B is to contact a shark boat or tuna boat.

micah202 - 7-29-2014 at 12:11 PM

.
....I'm looking forward to the confirmation ,hopefully tomorrow,,,that Elsa's on Cloud9,,,and doubly so when she and steve are back together!

BajaLuna - 7-29-2014 at 04:47 PM

Very exciting, can't wait to see the pics!!

BajaLuna - 7-29-2014 at 05:09 PM

still scheduled to arrive tomorrow morning?

It will be great for her to come to BA IF that is how it works out, it's a great place for them to unwind, take a breather, and regroup!

Sure wish we could be there, would love to meet her too! Such an inspiration!

bullox - 7-29-2014 at 05:37 PM

Hey folks,

I'm on a flight to San Diego, getting in this evening. Will be posting updates as things progress - and I'm REALLY looking forward to having my fiancée back on dry land!

Would be great to catch as many of you as are keen and introduce you to amazing Elsa, in Asuncion or otherwise - details TBC!

Check out Elsa's latest blog if you'd like - an interesting pic at the end! http://www.elsahammond.com/2014/07/day-50-swimming-plastic-b...

Thanks again - so great to have your support.
Steve

bajabuddha - 7-29-2014 at 05:43 PM

bullox/Steve, what a saga!! Kudos to you both. Too far away to share the festivities, so KICK BUTT AND TAKE NAMES, literally. What a tale to tell for the next 50 years! Here's a toast (as if you need one) for your party:
"Here's to the Good Old Days, because TODAY IS The Good Old Days!!"

Bravo.

Same to you, Shari, for your efforts. Ignore the riff-raff, enjoy the MOMENT. You too will have to share your stories with me sometime. When and if, next time down Baja, i'll do Asuncion again, this time with a hello.

shari - 7-29-2014 at 06:21 PM

Fantastic to see Elsa has kept her sense of humour! Love the last pic.

BajaGringo - 7-29-2014 at 07:08 PM

Good for you Shari! Elsa and friends will be in great hands...

redmesa - 7-30-2014 at 07:11 AM

What news?

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