Tic Toc Tic Toc

SnoreBringGator "Back to the future" on the portage. Cyborg or a scene out of "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang"; to close to call, but he made it! Keep an eye out for Snore's river maps and the flux capacitor!

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It's been like herding cats out there, but our three Mouseketeers are proving that if there is a will there is a way.

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Crazy Russian is at Cedar Key getting a well deserved sleep; looks like Runningmouth had pulled over for a snooze; then there's ever so jolly Snore pushing the limits of sleep deprivation as he draws his DreamCatcher closer and closer to the gulf. Looks like he pulled an all nighter.

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Nice weather a head, but the wind Gods must be summoned to assist with the last leg from Cedar Key to DeSoto, tic toc tic toc the clock is ticking on the event time limits.

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What an amazing challenge it has been, and it ain't over yet!

WaterTribe Top 10 Tips!

10. You can't have a wilderness experience if you aren't really in the wild - (get off your patio, back away from the grille) Get out there!

9. Your neighborhood Rednecks are not considered wildlife, put the camera down before you're arrested.

8. Camping out of your boat is better then a 3 star Howard Johnson's. Really, trust me.

7. If you are a kayaker, adopt a canoer, you'll enjoy the luxury of all the goodies he's carrying.

6. If a Tribe member is using a 23 year old tent to camp; camp up wind.

5. Spare the rod; it's not a fishing trip.

4. There's plenty of time for sleep in the grave, paddle.

3. Don't take firewood for granted. You'll make a fire, plan for it.

2. Don't give up, don't throw up. Eat, Drink Be Merry!!

Number one reason to do a WaterTribe event!

1. Making miles; brings on smiles!

FC Update #86

On the Suwanee as the fog lifts

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Runningmouth reports 8:15am
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Likes the weather reports with the wind out of the NW. Pushing to the gulf!! Great morning out on the river; sends a big hug to his sweetie Donna! Really missing her today!!

FC Update #85

Crazy Russian's Ride - the need to ride the tide out on the Suwanee

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Sharkchow Wisdom - Click Here

FC Update #84

Breaking news!! Snore makes Big Shoals!!
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After a bite to eat and a nip of "Jack" - Snore is gonna rally for an all-nighter to real in the ellusive Cedar Key.
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Go Snore Go!!

The Hunt for Snore

oh my...

Spoke with Snore this morning and he looks to keep it moving; planning on going straight through the night to give some buffer on time.

Go Snore!!

FC Update # 83

Runnigmouth Reports 10:32am

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Made it past Big Shoals; Suwanee is great but nobody around!! Hope to run into some day trippers!
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The man needs someone to talk to!! Isolation has brought on a case of River Fever!! Snore; time to step up buddy!!

Canoe and Kayak magazine tells the story...

Click Here

FC Update #82

Sharkchow wisdom - Click Here

FC Updates #81

Scareman Speaks: Click Here

FC Update #80

SnoreBringGator:
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Welcome relief; Manitou drops of some good food and a couple of barley pops for the road... Literally... Snore's having a beer. A well deserved beer I might add.

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Just like NASCAR, you got change out tires often. Races are won and lost on tire wear.

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If you ain't rubb'n you ain't racing...

FC Update #79

RunningMouth Reports: 6:15pm

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Twenty miles down river on the Suwanee; hoping to make Big Shoals tonight. Big shout out to Manitou who offered up good food and support on the portage.
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Mentioned that that wheel issue yesterday (5 hours) really slowed progress down, but made up with it with the PAS push.

FC Update #78

Yummy yum yum 10:58am
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Mantiou works his way to Fargo bearing gifts; tracks them down! T-Bone Steaks and Chicken Legs all cooked up and ready for grinding!! The Boys love it!!
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They're doing great; Just plugging away at it.
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They are aware there is a bit of a time crunch to make the finish in the allotted time... gonna need to push it.

FC Update #77

SnoreBringGator (Bacon) reports: 3-27-10 7:45pm
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Snore pulls within a half mile of RM! He is camping in front of the fire tower 17.5 miles from ramp. The breeze is building and it feels like they may get some rain.
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Snore is having some problems with his left foot- the two spots were covered by mole skin this morning and appear to be holding up fine. Looks good for an afternoon launch at Fargo!!

Crazy Russian Runs Big Shoals

FC Update #76

Dan Smith acknowledgement:
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Congratulations to Mark with his 1st place finish in the 1,200 mile water tribe race.
He finished at 3:08 am Saturday morning the 27th. His time is 20 days 20 hours 8 min.
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We all kind of knew he would be the man to beat having a mentor like Verlen and paddling a canoe built by Verlen gave him a distant advantage. With that advantage he still had to get the job done and get the job done he did with a pace not many people can keep up with and with his passion in canoeing.
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I remember when he showed up at Verlens as a rookie in the mid 1990 and wanted his advice on a trip down the Grand River to Lake Michigan. Well he ended up in Verlens canoes for that trip and the rest is now history.
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Verlen is smiling down on Mark now with that famous smile of his and I know he is very proud that Mark has done with his canoes what they were intended to be used for and he keeps on doing it.
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Hell I am very proud of him too! Dan

FC Update #75

Matt "The Wizard" Layden

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21 days, 12 hours, and 0 minutes

Florida Challenge 2010

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Click Here

FC Update #74

Toby (The Terror) WhiteCaps
2nd Place Florida Challenge
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21 days, 5 hours, and 13 minutes

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Click Here

FC Update #73

Sharchow wisdom - Click Here

FC Update #72

Runningmouth Reports 7:50am
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The run up the St Mary's was great, prettiest part of the trip; except for the many snakes seen on rocks.
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Scarman lurking rivers edge, popped out with a barbecue sandwich in hand; awesome!!
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The cart (with duct tape) seems to be holding up pretty well, no issues. A sheriff stopped by offered his greetings, said he could stay anywhere he liked; ended staying at a fire tower. Got a great nights sleep actually slept in a little longer that he had planned to.
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Looks like a great morning for a walk; heading to the Suwanee, hope to make with one more push.

FC Update #71

1st Place Florida Challenge 2010

Mark "The ManitouCruiser" Przedwojewski

20 days, 20 hours, and 8 minutes

Click Here!!

FC Update #70

Mark on the move, when he called he said he was going to stay outside. Has one reef in the sail and is making really good time. 31 miles at 4 mph puts him in somewhere around 3:00am.
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Chief, Saltyfrog and I imagine a homeless person or two will be on hand for the finish. It's either a late night or early morning, depends if your a glass is half empty or half full sort of guy.
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Chief is trying to coordinate a few things tonight/tomorrow; video of the finishes tonight with Mark, Toby and Matt, (not necessarily in that order, there is a heated battle for second place)then a road trip to get Snore a SPOT on the walk of tears.
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Mark will finish tonight as he has had two back to back of good night sleeps... so he is all in for the finish.

FC Update #69

Trena Reports:
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No, Toby didn't sleep late this morning. When he went into shore last night, the wind was so bad all he wanted to do was get out of the rain. He went in on high tide, and this morning when he got up very early, there was nothing but big oyster bars.
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He had to portage around to a different part of the island in order to launch. The unfortunate part was that it was raining so bad this morning he had to wait some to do the portage. He is hoping to be able to sail soon and make up some time. He knows that Wizard is on his tail, and if I know him will do everything in his power to hold on to second place. Will prove to be an interesting day.

FC Update #68

The race is on!!
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Mark Reports: 1:09pm
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Still has time to think it through, but he might go on the inside having never gone that way before. I cautioned him that the lure of a good cheeseburger and a cold beer might be just the distraction Whitecaps and Wizard are looking for. Watch out for a good grouper sandwich too!! It'll take you down a notch!!
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So the fight for second place continues, Whitecaps - PAS flying with Balogh BOSS ; Wizard letting the stitching out of the sail to give more canvas, what a ride!
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Mark could not believe that CR ran Big Shoals!! " he is crazy!!"

FC Update #67

Sharkchow wisdom - Click Here

FC Update #66

Snore Reports 7:22am
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Leaving Trader's Hill this morning within the hour. Next stop St. George!!
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Manitou called back 7:31am - plan is to wait an hour to see what the wind is going to do; found a maintenance guy that let him use his car charger for the phone.
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Pretty sure wizard will stay as west as the wind clocks around; which puts Toby and Wizard both with in striking distance of each other. If the wind goes west, Toby will have a headwind to get around the gettys spoils and rip rap.
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Looks like we got ourselves a race boys and girls!

FC Update #65

Cheeseburgers in Paradise!

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Manitou Reports: 7:05am
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A great sleep last night, pretty comfy hanging near the concession stand with a lot of amenities, (though he forgot his power cord for plug in for phone).
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Woke up to find he had a lot of real estate to cover to get to open water; 80 yards at least.... can you say boat drag!
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Fully rigged for sail, akas amas and sail ready; lashed down as the wind is still out of the Southwest. Waiting for the change.- Northwest.
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Battery is low on the phone, short conversation. Parting comment: Hope the wind changes as it will be slow going for awhile with the sail rig ready for deployment.
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Very happy to hear everyone was safe after yesterday's difficult weather conditions and big water.

FC Update #64

Mark Reports:

There's the pod of whales, gaggle of geese, crash of rhinos; what do you call a group unit of manatee(s)? a herd
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Crazy story:
Mark states he sees how Chief got all bruised by being dumped in the DreamCatcher. Mark was paddling along and thought "wow" look at all those shiny rocks, that's weird.
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Then he realized it was the backs of a herd of manatees!! Totally lifted him out of the water and came crashing down; stuck the landing and did not capsize.
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Lots of rip rap around, spoils and debris, and sea creatures... keep the wet side down!!
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Mark states he's on the burger in paradise tour!! Totally taken in by the concession stand crowd. They said he could sleep there tonight; We call that the bonus round, so unexpected!!
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Will paddle out at first light.
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Kap

FC Update #63

Runnigmouth Reports: 11:55a
At Trader Hill, legs feel like rubber, blah... but loving it!
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Retold the wild boar story, gets better each time he tells it!! Something about a Seminole Indian Ceremony where he offered Snore for sacrifice. ( maybe I'm getting my stories mixed up)
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Had a terrible night sleep on a rusty metal dock under a space blanket at King Ferry, feels pretty good now. Still hanging with Snore, kinda like a cold that lingers on and on.... :-)
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NOTICE TOBY: Move to the inside, less chop and a break from the wind past Crystal Bay. - Manitou
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Sharkchow Wisdom - Click Here

The Weather - Cedar Key Fla

Today
Mostly sunny then becoming partly cloudy early in the afternoon then becoming mostly cloudy. Slight chance of showers late in the afternoon. Highs in the mid 70s. South winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 20 percent.
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Tonight
Becoming Cloudy Lo: 61° POP: 70%
Mostly cloudy until midnight then becoming cloudy. Showers likely and slight chance of thunderstorms. Warmer. Lows in the lower 60s. Southwest winds 5 to 10 mph. Chance of rain 70 percent.
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Friday
Chance Of Showers Hi: 69°POP: 20%
Partly sunny. Slight chance of showers in the morning. Highs in the upper 60s near the coast and in the mid 70s inland. West winds 10 to 15 mph. Chance of rain 20 percent.
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Friday Night
Clearing Lo: 59°
Partly cloudy until midnight then clearing. Cooler. Lows in the upper 50s near the coast and in the upper 40s inland. Northwest winds 5 to 10 mph shifting to the northeast after midnight.
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Saturday
Partly Cloudy Hi: 79°
Partly cloudy. Highs around 70 near the coast and in the upper 70s inland. East winds 10 to 15 mph.

FC Update #62

Bump in the night..
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Looks like Toby forgot to put his blinker on and missed the cut (channel) to Cedar Key. Looks like he is on the three hour tour.
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Snore and RunningMouth are playing three little piggy's as boars or hog haunt their dreams - Click Here
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Last night - Mark's first full night of sleep during the whole challenge! Said something about cracking open a Sam Adams and just relaxing a bit before bed.
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Mark Reports: 6:13am
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Great sleep, fully rested, preparing for the sloth into the wind. It's gonna take some time getting around these spoils as the tide is out. Not too windy....yet.

FC Update #61

The Boys:

Snore and RunningMouth working their way up the St. Mary's

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Running Mouth all buff and stuff

FC Update #60

Mark Reports: On a spoil 16 miles south of Cedar Key, by the Crystal river
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He's focus on getting sleep tonight, and making miles tomorrow in the wind; staying as close as he can to shore, though it's not very deep.
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Mark stated that it would be a weather hold day tomorrow if Toby wasn't so freaking good!
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At Cedar Key, Wizard's father in law was there to say hi; A very warm welcome, offered a great night out for dinner. Mark pushed on. (mac and cheese is losing it's appeal)
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Tomorrow's dilemma: 15 mile an hour head winds, a 20 mile day looks good!! No records broken this year. Looking at a Friday finish at this point.
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Trena; Toby left Mark a message about Cedar Key but it was garbled, sorry no comprendo!

FC Update #59

Pelican calls it - Click here
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Manitou reports :
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Trying to stay clear of all the fisherman; lots of fog. No wind waiting for it to build. Got a good sleep in the boat, rigging BOSS early accommodated for this.
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Plan is to push on to the finish, touch bow and sign in at Cedar Key, desperately trying to make up time to close the gap on his 2006 finish time. NOT going to hang at Cedar, push push push on...
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Side note: Manitou says he is as far as long as he is to the persistent efforts of Matt and Toby on the push to Fort Clinch, now that was tough going.
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Legs have finally recovered from the 12 hour 40 mile portage, "Thanks mom for the essential oils for the aching bones!!" Still a little hiccup in his giddy up!
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Wizard Reports:
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Great night for traveling, the moon is getting good. Clear, cool, and calm conditions after 2 a.m. Wizard was battling another migraine yesterday and I was happy to hear it subsided after the sun went down. Seems like he had a good night after such a rough day. His cell phone battery is very low and not sure when I'll hear from him again.
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Runnigmouth Reports:
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He sure can talk on the phone!! Having the time of his life!! Click here

FC Update #58

Snore Reports:
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Made it up to Fort Clinch, calling it the "Gastronomical Tour" with all the food that they have been eating. Big shout out to Keith who had a pipping hot pizza with the boys..
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Plan is to wait for the morning tide and ride her in.
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Mark Reports from Fanning Springs: 3-23-10 5:30pm
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Gonna push it till Suwanee; catch a sleep and then push to Cedar Key. says he's about 30 miles off of his pace in 2006. (still doing math in his head with a 4 hour nap in two days, crazy)
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Greybeard makes contact: Click Here

FC Update #57

Manitou Reports: 1:28pm
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While paddling he came up upon a group that was out for a week on the river who had been following the challenge. They were hopeful to run into some of the competitors and were elated to see Mark.
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In grand celebration they broke out the dogs, hard boiled eggs, apples and oranges. Feasted like royalty!
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Mark was in great spirits said he was feeling great!!
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RunningMouth Reports:
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At Fort Clinch at 12:15p Gorgeous out. Planning on spending the night then riding out the first tide in the morning,
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Stated he had a heck of a time on the St John's river inlet, tossed and turned and bounced about, almost taken out by the jetty. Found an oyster shell spoil and camped out waited it out till daylight. Big 19 hour day.
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Learning so much about the boat, what an adventure. Lots of well wishers, really digging it!!! So excited for a shower and a fully charged phone!!

FC Update #56

Sharkchow gives a blow by blow view - Click here

FC Update # 55

Grizzly Mountain Paddler

Mark Reports: 7:53am
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Paddled up until 3:00am and pulled over for a sleep. Had a big helping of mac and cheese before bedding down.
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Woke up before the alarm. 6:58am. He really missed the two extra minutes of sleep. :-/ Fog on the river spectacular, floating breakfast with stale coffee from last night and some turkey pepperoni.
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Had a good day yesterday, 91 miles. Pushing on with around 100 miles to Cedar Key. Trying to get down there for when the wind switches out of the north east.

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Manitou looking good - Click here

FC Update #54

Mark Reports: 7:36pm
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Eating Kashi bars and drinking EnergyC fuel for the soul; Plan is to go through the night if at all possible; keeping an eye out for the sleep monster and that sneaky Toby.

Toby got lots of sleep last night, so it is very possible that Toby will go straight through the night. Not counting anyone out, a lot can happen in 4 - 5 days.

FC Update #53

CrazyRussian Reports:
Strong headwinds. River is not wide enough to sail, shores are not inflatable boat friendly either. It is not a current, it is wind killing me. I'm 4 miles away and I can not make it now. Very frustrating. Taking short brake than continue. My back hurts. I guess one day of training I took recently wasn't enough.
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RunnigMouth Reports:
60 N Miles To Fort Clinch SP, Staying inside, I'm just north of St Augustine. The wind and chop on the water building fast! Gonna stop to eat, charge my phone, and get a current local knowledge weather report.
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Pelicans Oldest Chick Reports:
My son wanted to call Pelican earlier this morning and he actually answered. He was on dry land in his tent, but I am not really sure where. His grandson had a lot of talking to do (he is 4) so my time was very limited. He seemed to be doing well though and was in good spirits. When my son got off the phone with him he had this crazy notion that Pelican is going to take him on a trip when he gets back...we will see about that one!! According to Jackson they will be taking a tent, I think I am going to need a few more details on this one (and maybe a few drinks)!! If I talk to him again and find out more info I will let you know.~Pelican's Oldest Chick
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Whitecaps Reports:
Continue down Suawanee. Trying to catch Manitou Cruiser. Had a very good rest. Was just too tired to continue yesterday. It is still a race.

FC Updates #52

Mark Reports: 6:37am
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Mark figures 6-8 miles from music park, doesn't know if he can keep his eyes open that long.
Needs to get out of the canoe and walk around a bit. The sleep monster has caught up with him.
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Our talk seemed to help, he perked up with the thought of some hot coffee and a Mc "Something" if someone will run him up to a McDonald's.

FC Updates #51

RunningMouth evening report:

Playing a little "leap frog" with Snore; RunningMouth back to his college stomping grounds hits Daytona Beach and huge thunderstorm blows in, Snore pulled over to batten the hatches Runnigmouth kepts going. The leap frog continues.
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Favorable winds couldn't stop RunningMouth from shooting the breeze with WaterTriber Mullet who was on site cheering them on. Banner Day as Mullet had a piping hot pizza to share.

Manitou evening report:

Two big days and a night on a couple hours of sleep. Pulling over to camp, down some mac and cheese and get some rest somewhere near White Springs. Sounded really good like he was on a day paddle.

FC Updates #50

Toby in bright neon, I can see it now! Click Here

FC Updates #49

Sharkchow gives blow by blow: Click Here
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When Mark called in this morning he was in great spirits and had high expectations for the day on the river.

Notice FC going mobile >>>>>>>

With a fresh snow fall overnight we are heading to the Wisconsin River for an overnight paddle and camp. SPOT will be activated to follow our tracks.
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Float Plan:
Put in at Arena paddle up hill. The river is clear of ice and winter debris in this section. Should be wonderful.
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SPOT TRACKING - Click here
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Look to the WT mobile for updates on the Florida Challenge to the right. >>>>>>>>
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The Capt'n

FC Updates #48

Mark Reports: 9:25p

Toby and Mark are at Trader's Hill; gonna push on for a while then find a place to camp. Great day of paddling.

FC Updates #47

Photo By: Honset Jon

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All buff and stuff;

Stopped for some water and some jerky and ran into Honest Jon, who took this pic of the boys! Looks like they are out on a day paddle all relaxed, or a Columbia ad.

FC Updates #46

Mark Reports: 12:19pm
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On the move; got a little crazy as they went by the Hwy 17 bridge as there where tons of police and crime scene investigators on site as they pulled a burned out pick up truck from the river.
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Toby got pictures, but on his camera not his phone so no pictures to share.
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Snore sticking to his alibi; he's with RunningMouth.

Sharkchow - The FC record holder

chimes in: Click Here

FC Update #45

Pelican goes blue water - Click here

FC Update #44

SnoreBringGator Reports: 8:37am
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He and RunningMouth ate dinner at Cap's Place; Where FDR and Churchill had a secret meeting in 1942. ( not had dinner with Churchill) seems a bit suspect to me
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As Snore tries to re-write history; the next thing he is going to tell me is that St. Augustine is the nations oldest city.

FC Update #43

Chief Reports:

In 2006 SharkChow reached Fort Clinch in about 11 Days 9 Hours. ManitouCruiser made Fort Clinch in 10 Days 18 Hours. Wizard did it in 9 Days 11 Hours. I ignored minutes for all three.
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So the record up to this point has not been broken.The record for reaching Cedar Key is 17 Days 10 Hours 10 Minutes set by SharkChow.
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They will have to burn up the course to beat that. Is it doable? With these animals who knows?

FC Update #42

RunningMouth reports 7:56am
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Repairs made to Snore's rudders. All's good now!!
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Hit an all time low yesterday, pretty hit in the wind; but after a dinner felt much better.
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This morning watching a pod of Dolphins playing over a second cup of coffee. Looks to be a good day.

FC Update #41

Mark Reports:
Both Toby and Mark repacked canoes for better trim; they felt stern heavy. Mark reports now Toby is even faster!! @$#$%%%$!!
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Mind games: Initial plans, Toby to camp tonight; Mark to go straight through the night. We'll see.
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If anyone has the time to research, Mark and Toby would like to know how far off the record pace they are, if it is in reach?
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I gotta go to work and can't do the numbers... Please post if you can
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Most appreciated!!
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FC Update #40

18:30, Pelican stopped for a meal and a rest. He's Click here

FC Update #39

RunningMouth says... Is happy to be.... click here

What the...

Toby is getting ready to make some armadillo porridge.

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A man with way too much free time on his hands, takes on gourmet cooking. "Pease porridge hot, pease porridge cold, Armidilo in the pot, nine days old."

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Tough as nails. say ye

It's a sign

Running with the resistance of the wind is not more difficult; it simply reminds me I'm not alone. -t.c.matabele

FC Update # 38

Late night text from SnoreBringGator has him scratching his head on a worn and frayed rudder cable. "Any tricks to replacing the new one?"
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My response was tape the end so it doesn't fray, possibly use some fishing line as a guide when pulling it backthrough. using the old cable to pull the fishing line back.
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Crazy I have had my Sea Wind for 4 years, never had to replace a cable; Snore 4 months and BAM!! Hit with another maintenance concern on the FC.
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Enough already; give this guy a break!!

FC Update # 37

Mariners Xtreme

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Manitou Reports:
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Relaxing day sorting out and drying gear... lots of naps and to bed early but not until they share a leader board dinner.
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Matt headed out to get a jump on the river; Mark and Toby plan to leave at 5:00am on Friday to chase the tide.

FC Update # 36

Mark Reports: 7:15am

Got in to Fort Clinch right before 6am, slow grind as it took 11 hours to go 20 miles. Waiting on some chow to grind on.
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Keith and Joe are at Fort Clinch and have offered up a campsite. Toby and Mark to take a day and catch up sort through gear and re-organize today. A rest day so to speak.
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The plan is to leave tomorrow with the tide.
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Mark mentioned again that Freighters were a concern, "keep your eyes open"

Recap - The Magnificent Seven

Your Cast of Characters

Pelican - On the move again after flying parts in to repair his Hobie Tandem pedal assisted kayak. Perseverance babe e; perseverance. Living in the moment and taking care of BID-NESS! Can we count his heroics, YES! Even performed a rescue of another WaterTriber. Proper name please, Sir Pelican.

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CrazyRussian - I have only met him once, he has a great sense of humor. He's in his old trusty “The Ugly Duckling” – folding inflatable catamaran, taken a beating on the outside, been awakened by big waves and high wind, perilous surf landings, now that's adventure. Go CR!!

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SnoreBringGator - In Kruger DreamCatcher with Balogh Rig has given back as much as he has been given, plagued with equipment issues, repairs on the fly and a complete retro fit in Grand Tours is now passing the time with RunningMouth. Banter, smack talk and a brush with greatness, (dinner with Winston Churchill), He is a hoot!!

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Whitecaps - Paddling a Kruger Seawind with Balogh Rig - Been called every name in the book, the Animal, Toby The Terror, The Terminator, and really really fast. Hardcore comes to mind. He's full of sand and tough as nails. Freighters beware!

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Wizard - Experimental minimum cruiser, 9' x 38" Where does one start; at the beginning I guess but this is only a short posting. There is nobody that I know that embraces the WaterTribe Mission more then Wizard. Always pushing the envelope of design, and always seems to run with the big dogs out front. Talk about sustainability. WOW

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ManitouCruiser - Paddle sailing a Sea Wind #42 with a Balogh 38; Lives breathes expedition paddle sailing. States this is an unbelievable adventure, pushing hard, testing the limits of endurance and equipment. Manitou has taken it to the limit more then once on this adventure to stay with the lead pack.

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RunningMouth - Kicking it with his Kruger Sea Wind with PAS and Balogh Rig. A trip of a life time, taking it all in and enjoying every second of the adventure. Wanted to know where the fire was with Toby, Mark and Wizard pushing so hard. His voyage across Biscayne Bay was epic, a wild one, never been so scared and invigorated all at the same time, Wanted to share his YouTube station with his vids - Click Here

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Toby is Yul Brynner.

CrazyRussian

Finally starts training - Click Here

Pelican

perseveres: Click here

FC Update # 35

Toby and Mark wait out the tide at the St. John's River

Mark Reports:

Early in the evening -

Making their way across the St. John's river was quite the challenge. A ripping tide and large humongous barge was too close for comfort. Quote " I thought it was going to take Toby out"

Later in the evening -

After a quick inventory, Manitou states he is running low on water. The weather and tide are cooperating, so the plan is to push on. I think Mark said Toby stopped to make a hot meal.

FC Update # 34

As Snore states; View from the back of the pack - SnoreBribgator Reports 9:30pm
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Not 100% sure what Bill "the Herminator" (SnorebringGator) was talking about; but from his message, something about having dinner with Winston Churchill at Pompano Beach with John. It's a mystery... or the green St. Patty's day beer talking.
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I do know this, he is having the time of his life paddling with John (RunningMouth) these past couple of days. Talk about kindred spirit.
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There having too much fun; it must be illegal!!

FC Update # 33

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Updates: 1:04p

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Manitou catches Wizard for a photo op. Both working their way up the canal as we speak.

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WhiteCaps surges ahead.

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Runningmouth Reports: 12:45p

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Paddling with Snore, taking it all in, really enjoying the adventure. Raised the question to the leaders; "Where's the fire?"

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Lots of fish scurrying about manatee's and such, simply beautiful as they are just past Jupiter Inlet right around Hells Gate.

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Mentioned that he is starting to forget things; some of the basics like eating and drinking regularly. Has a twinge in his back, might have slept wrong.

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Speaking of sleeping, they stayed at Peanut Campground. Unfortunately not good reviews as the hospitality was horrible.

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SnoreBringGator: Has Fuel!!

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Tyro Reports: Click here

FC Update # 32

10:39 am

Toby has snatched the lead from Wizard as they push towards the canal; Working their way north to Ponte Verda Beach.
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I would have liked to have heard the exchange of words between Matt and Toby as he went by. Sound byte!! Somebody get me a sound byte.
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Tyro is going to try and seek them out in the canal.

FC Update #31

SnoreBringGator - on his way to Sebastien. Appears to have punctured a couple of fuel cells for his stove; Sends a shout out to anyone in the area to run him to and fro to get fuel. There are stale crackers in it for ya.

FC Update #30

7:55am
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Whitecaps gets through the inlet; making good time as he closes the gap on Wizard.

FC Update #29

Wizard makes it through the St. Augustine Inlet just in time to ride the tide in, brilliant move. Whitecaps and Manitou were just short of making it, so they will need to push on till they get north of it.
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St. Augustine Inlet - Click here

FC Update #28

Mark Reports 7:08am
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Huge Dolphin encounters all morning, coming by and checking him out. Sending positive energy to the water; doesn't want to get dumped by a sea creature.
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Gonna push on no matter what the tide says; with Matt and Toby pushing, you got to stay with the pack.

slide show...

Here is a slide show of what we have thus far:

Matt's 'Elusion'

Photo by Pete

Leading the pack on th FC, Matt is paddle/sailing a custom home built micro cruiser; by his own design 'Elusion', is a real head turner.
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Durable, elegant, pretty darn fast to boot. Roller reefing, self righting in case of capsize, she is only 9' long.

FC Update #27

Mark Reports 7:37pm
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Pulled over due to the slack water, waiting for the tide. Gonna grab a meal and some sleep. New pics loaded up in the Pic Drop Box to the right. (The silly life jackets that he scrounged up and a pic of him tucking into the hubba bubba; Camp Kruger)
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With any luck Toby will camp nearby so they can share stories of the day. Toby has been gaining ever so slightly over the day's paddle.
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Words of encouragement to all the other FC challengers out there! A dip of the paddle to Pelican for persevering!!
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7:40pm - Toby paddled on by Mark who was camped.

FC Update #26

Trena Reports. 6:55pm
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Toby has been chasing Mark all day, making up some ground. They both know where each other are so it's a battle of wits and brawn and the the FC chess match continues.
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Trena stated that this is the first day that Toby wasn't cold and wet; the issue a day ago with Toby going to the other side of the waterway is the landing was terrible and he actually cut his foot trying to get out. He's fine but had enough of the sharps on the landing.
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Playing the tide and the sleep cycles seems to be the factor on this leg of the challenge.

FC Update # 25

Looks like Pelican turned his beak up at the Weather Gods; dumped the broken gear and will paddle pedal his way around the FC course.
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That is real tenacity!~

Go Pelican Go!!

New videos posted....

Click here

Canoe and Kayak Magazine

Chimes in on Verlen - click here
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Something tells me if he can, Verlen is watching the FC 2010 right now....

FC Update # 24

We made contact!! 9:54am For Pictures - Click Here

Runningmouth Reports: Having the time of my life; scared the crap out of me crossing Biscayne Bay was out of control. 105 miles out from Sebastien; gonna try to knock out 1/2 of that today in the headwinds. Rats, raccoons and mud, it's the bomb. Lost my phone so had to track down another!! Seems to be a trend.
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SnoreBringGator Reports: Did a couple of 40 hour days to get where I am now. travelling in comfort a testament to the Kruger line of boats. had dinner with Runningmouth, plan on paddling together till "someone" makes their move. Gonna have some breakfast and move on.

Keep an eye out

9:12am

Looks like Snore and Runnigmouth are hanging together. CrazyRussian had Pelican within hailing distance, but after the de-masting of Pelican, CR is on his own.
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Toby looks to be sticking to Mark like a refrigerator magnet; and Wizard leads the way as the winds begin to build for another uphill day.
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The Captain Reporting

Following the UF 2010

Patty P. Reports: 9:05am (Brownie Lady from Hell Creek MI) in FLA.

The wind has been horrendous here the past 3 days since the rain ended...... I followed the guys on SPOT and went out last night to the Indian River here in Titusville.......kept calling my husband to check the computer as Wizard came sailing by first.....about a half mile offshore.
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I could see him but it got darker and darker and he was harder to see with no moon. By the time Wizard got to the Drawbridge I was at the boat launch and it was WINDY, DARK, Big waves crashing on the launch ramps.....I could not see him at all as he went under the drawbridge heading north!!!! I drove back and forth over the bridge but he was invisible.....just saw a few lights from moored sailboats.
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Toby and Mark were well behind him and I knew they too would be hard to see to so I gave up. Toby and Mark ended up going under the Drawbridge and through Haulover Canal in the wee hours of the morning........ I didn't want to stay up all night trying to get a glimpse of them.....sure wish I could have caught them during the day.
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I was busy the rest of today with scheduled activities and I just checked their progress tonight.....they are making good time!!! There is a possibility I might be able to catch up with them tomorrow if they don't get too far north......won't know for sure till tomorrow......The winds have finally died which is good.....but maybe not too good if you are sailing..... Take care.....will keep you posted if I see them....

FC Update # 23

Mark Reports 6:43am
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On the water around 1:00am; saw that Toby had sneaked off in the night. #@@#$#! So tired literally had to will himself out of bed. (ah, the comforts of a cozy nook can sometimes work against you).
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Mark was surprised that Toby took off around 8:00pm with the tide going out, "Must have been brutal."
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Quick look at the mapper (6:43am) with Toby napping waterway right; puts Mark about 1200 yards ahead.
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Plan is to paddle on. Mark stated he never felt so tired as he did waking up this morning, gonna take a bit to get all pistons firing.

Toby makes a move...

3/15/2010 8:08:00 PM
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Manitou caught napping... literally.
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Toby "the terror" on the move. If it ain't "whitecaping" you ain't racing.

Chief tells the tale...

I have written an account of my misadventures during this year's Ultimate Florida Challenge. You can read it at I Took a Beating.
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We all know "stuff" happens. I only wished this had happened as I rounded the bend coming back to Mullet Key. I am extremely disappointed and can only wait for the next chance to do this amazing challenge.
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Chief

UF Update #22

Then there were 6. From the message board
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Pelican
Just called to say he's out of the race. I have help contacting him to see how we can help him. He said he was OK, broke something on his boat.
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This is quite unfortunate; as a tried and true tribe member who offered assistance /rescue on day 1 of the FC is now out himself due to equipment failure. It must be something pretty significant as pelican has been known in the past to repair and go.
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Past events have found him even leaving for a day for "work" and returning to complete an EC. So speculation would say something beyond repair for safe efficient travel.
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The Captain Reporting

Putting on a clinic

Looks like Wizard, Manitou and WhiteCaps all have the same idea. All pulled over posting 0 knots on their SPOTS. Word on the water is hope the winds will die down towards night fall. Putting on a clinic; this is how it's done.

Sebastien Inlet Cam - Real Time

Click here

Wind speed and directional indicator at bottom

UF Update #21

Mark Reports: 1:30pm

Mark to the left Toby to the right; game on... Mark and Toby stopped together at Dell Cummings House to take some much needed rest. Toby stated he didn't like the landing.
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Toby hardcore as he is went to the other side of the waterway, I think to keep an eye on Mark to make sure he doesn't sneak off on him.
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Too close to call and too much challenge left, but the mind games have started. Mark showered and in an AC bedroom eating subway / Toby in the heat and in the sand... eating well; canoe rations.

FC Update #20

Mark reports 11:05am
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Paddled up on Toby; who looked like he was having a yard sale on the beach with all his gear; sorting and taking down Balogh rig with the wind on the nose; both Mark and Toby tired of fighting it.
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They did however meet up with Dell Cummings (Sea Wind Owner out for a day paddle); Now looking to make camp shower and rest up a tad before pushing on at Casa Cummings.
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Ah life on the water, life on the FC.

Toby in the news

Whitecaps (toby) in the news. Click here

Thanks Trena!

Contact me

If any one has any information on the MAGNIFICENT 7 and would like to share; contact me at brian0017 AT yahoo DOT com.

There are five other competitors out there and I sure would like to embellish their story!!

Thanks Tyro for the pics!!

The Capt'n Reporting

UF Update #20

ManitouCruiser (Mark) Photo By: Tyro

Mark at Sebastien, closer look behind Mark is the orange life jacket that he now carries after loosing gear a couple days back. So Toby is napping? I think I've awoken a sleeping giant. Man that guy can paddle!

UF Update #19

WhiteCaps (toby) photo by: Tyro

Chipper as a rutting buck and crisper then a bowl full of Fruit Loops, Toby takes time for the paparazzi, sign a few autographs. Looks like he had a bit of a catnap with sleeping pad a bag out.

FC Update #18

Mark Reports 6:51am
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Pulled another all nighter as the weather has been favorable. The plan is to keep going until the wind clocks around to the North, then rest till it dies a bit towards evening.
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Mark reports it being a different event then from 4 years ago; with Toby "the terror" Whitecaps pushing hard and Wizard casting "his spell" in his micro-rocket -paddle on has been the theme.

Look to mobile updates - to the right

On the road >>>>

FC Update #17

Trena Reports 11:20am

Whitecaps to continue paddling on to Sebastian Inlet. He said the wind was being difficult at times. He had good food and sleep, so even though he is behind Manitou Cruiser and Wizard, he hopes to make up some time today.

Closer look Sebastian Inlet

Where they are headed -The CP

FC Update #16

Fort Pierce, FLA
Mostly sunny with increasing winds. Temperatures warming rapidly into the low to middle 70s. Winds W at 15 to 20 mph.
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Looks like there will be some warmer weather and some sun today for those working their way North to Sebastien, the wind continues.
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Wizard on the move early - Manitou a tad back - WhiteCaps stalking them both, all on the ICW. Crazy Russian on the outside had a 40Knot blast on Biscayne Bay; still working his way North on the outside. Pelican, RunningMouth, Snore look to be at Key Largo. Chief has pulled the plug due to equipment breakdown after a dumping by a series of unknowns.
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Game on.

FC Update #15

Trena Nipper Reports 3-12-10 8:42pm
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Toby is making his way towards Sebastien; he's about 2 miles behind Manitou and 3 miles behind Wizard. To think he only started paddling three years ago... Wow!!
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Having the time of his life!

FC Update #14

Mark Reports 3-12-10 3:38pm

After a yummy Kahauna Burger at the Waterway Cafe, and looking on line with the aide of a fan that had a cell phone with Internet; Manitou is back in the water seeing that wizard is a head of him and that Toby is closing behind.
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Well rested, weather pending pushing on to Sebastien. Currently bobbing around near Worth lake.
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He's still looking for a real life jacket (has an orange horseshoe) and an AT & T cell phone store.

Mark's SPOT

Click Here!!

Quiet Water Symposium

Hats off to everyone that helped out with the Quiet Water Symposium this past weekend; and for all those that donated time and money, we thank you! Pictures scrolling to the right. Click to enlarge. More information at the http://www.verlenkrugermemorial.org/
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The Captain Reporting

FC Update #13

The weather appears to be a factor for all competitors. Florida Bay reports winds out of the East at 9 miles an hour. Tonight heavy thunderstorms, tomorrow sunny.
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For the "Boys" that turned the corner and are heading up the east coast: Rain, becoming more intermittent by 10am. Cloudy with temperatures rising towards the mid 70s. Winds SSE at 15 to 20 mph. Thunderstorms today and tonight. "Keep your eye in the sky"
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Chief appears by SPOT to be back at Chockoloskee, though rumor said he was out on Jewel Key. Hard to tell when SPOT is not activated.
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SnoreBringGator is on the move down the Little Joe River headed toward CP 3.
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RunningMouth is at CP 3 waiting out the weather.
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Pelican is anchored off a sandbar; not sure the story but he headed back to get a map that was dropped or lost; not sure on the whole story. Information is limited.
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Wizard is on the ICW on the move making his way North at North Palm Beach.
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CrazyRussian appears to be at Key largo, but SPOT post is from yesterday, so no telling where he really is at this point. Have to wait for a 24 hour mandated report.
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To coin a phrase: "Like herding cats" keeping track of everybody.
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The Capt'n Reporting

FC Update #12

Mark / Toby Report 7:30pm

Hunkered down in an abandon house, watching the weather closely. Tornado's and bad weather rolling in. Possible weather hold tomorrow.

Both are in good spirits. Laughing and making a meal.

Mark states can't seem to shake Toby; so why fight it. Looks like they will hang together until Sebastien.

Weather is a huge factor, it's really kicking out there.

FC Update #11

Mrs. Manitou Reporting 3-11-10 3:51pm
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DEFINING SLEEP DEPRIVATION when paddling
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The degree of sleepiness experienced by a paddler depends not only upon the quantity of sleep, but also upon its quality and timing.
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Quantity of sleep — It is often difficult to determine what constitutes a normal quantity of sleep for a given individual. Two simple approaches to answering this question have been proposed:
Determining how long a paddler would sleep if left to awaken spontaneously. / Or scream shark in his ear to watch his hastened response. :-)
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The goal of sleep is to have the paddler awaken refreshed and be capable of moving through the day feeling alert without effort, even when placed in boring or monotonous situations like paddling with Toby. :-)
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This sense of easy alertness should be distinguished from the pressured type of alertness when barreling down an 8' wave into a coral head. Enter The Manitou Case #1
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Case #1
Manitou may be sleep deprived. He lost his life jacket this morning (weird when he was wearing it just a second ago) and he just dropped his phone in the water and has lost cell coverage. :-/
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Mrs. Manitou called to update after a collect call from Mark.
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Our next test will be going into a retail AT&T store to p/u a new phone all stinky and salty and not getting hauled off to the hoosegow as a vagrant.
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The Captain Reporting
"Now where the heck are my keys"

Factoid #1

The Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) stretches 1,095 statute miles from Norfolk to Miami, and each fall you’ll find a long parade of yachts heading south along its mostly protected waters. They range from tiny sailboats with mom or pop at the helm to full-powered megayachts with professional crew, but their skippers and owners all have one thing in common: an urge to escape the ravages of another winter in the north. Doing the ditch; read more...

Looks like everyone is staying inside with the pending weather. Watch for the megayachts!!!

The Capt'n Reporting

FC Update #10

Mark Reports 3-11-10 5:40am
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Having the time of his life, feeling really good. Plans on paddling all day as there is weather blowing in later in the day. Plans on a good night sleep tonight.
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Mark sharp as a dull spoon is doing math in his head; states he's 133 miles south of Sebastien and is averaging 68 miles per day. I meant sharp as a tac; he was right on the money; I needed an abacus to figure it out.
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The wind is a bit crazy; has a reef in as gusts come from nowhere and really knocks you around.
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Posted some night time pics of Miami in the pic drop to the right.
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On a closing note; he said he and Toby chowed on egg McMuffin sandwiches before leaving key Largo; down like four of them.
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Miami Radar: click here

FC Update #9

Mark Reports 3-10-10 4:48pm
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Choppy conditions as he enters Biscayne Bay; Can see the skyline of Miami. Toby the Terminator has pulled ahead flying everything he's got including his Fruit of the Looms. All sails up. Making 4 - 5 mph all day under sail. The extra 1.5 PAS is giving him an edge.
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Mark states he needs to paddle constantly to stay with him.

mobile pics

Mark forwarded some more pics; keep looking to the right for mobile picture drops.

FC Update #8

Mark Reports 3-10-10 7:46am
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Slept pretty good after a long paddle yesterday. Had to completely empty the boat to hose it out after the Nav. error into the mud.
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Took almost an hour and half to get out; had to use the lee board to stand on and skootch the boat to deeper water. It took a lot of energy. Another lesson learned.
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Marty bought sandwiches at Mc D's; everyone socializing at the finish. Need to repack the boat and get things in order.
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Will be heading out in about an hour.

Pelican's Rescue

Pretty amazing that Nick (Pelican) was able to film and rescue the crew of "Maggie" a Sea Pearl. It was pumping out there with waves stacking up pretty high. Everything is fine and then in a blink of an eye you're lifted 6 feet into the air, hoping for the best.

The Capt'n Reporting

Catching some winks

Toby is all tucked in with his jammies and Teddy bear. 3 1/2 days to Key Largo; the man is a paddling machine.
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The Capt'n Reporting

Mobile pics

Mark will continue to forward pics by his phone; keep looking to the right for mobile picture drops.

The Capt'n Reporting

Watertribe Boats 2010

FC Update #7

Mark Reports 3-9-10 8:08pm
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Big paddling day on Florida Bay. Headwind the whole way. Blistering 2.5 miles an hour. Plan is to eat a big burger and fries catch some zzzzzz's; then move on.
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A personal best to Key Largo, by 3 hours.... [smile]

FC Update #6

Woes of Wizard
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Last long leg to Key Largo...Wizard reported he hasn't see any gators this trip, but there were some dolphins. I could hear tourists (or paparazzi) in the background at Flamingo asking questions about "the small boat."
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Wizard's Peeps and the Guakers just wont let him be!! Don't they know he's in a challenge!
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:-)

FC Update #5

Etch Reports: 3:30pm
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States Chief is on his way, seat fit pretty good, bungied it to the truss. Sails were switched out, dropped down from a 36sq ft. to a 24sq. ft.
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The "use a bigger hammer" approached applied as Chief needed to persuade the quick release pin to the aka to seet.
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Chief's on his way..... paddling as the wind has died to nothing.

FC Update #4

Chief Reports: 3-9-10 1:54pm
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Stuck in traffic on the causeway; has a bunch of parts to put the sail rig back together; if doesn't work will proceed by paddle. There may be issues with hole orientation of two different rigs being melded together.
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The big issue is getting the seat figured out. Has a couple of a Sea Wind seats from Stan "Etch" to see if they can make it work; concern is the width of the truss - bars fitting snugly into the truss.
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Stan "Etch" is shuttling Chief back to his boat! Bumper to bumper traffic!!! "@!#$%^^%$!!
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The Capt'n Reporting

FC Update #3

Toby and Mark playing a little cat and mouse. Looks like Toby is at Flamingo; hope he calls to update. Looks like Mark is out of the mud and on the move.
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There is a lot of challenge left, anything can happen.
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The Capt'n Reporting

FC Update #2

Chief is gathering gear and equipment. Spoke with Stan who is rounding up a Kruger Canoe Seat. Rogue wave dumped him and scattered gear. Everything "kapakahi" (Hawaiian). Looks to be back on the water this morning.
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Capt'n Reporting

FC Update #1

I am back in Wisconsin after a wild first day for us and everyone else that took the outside route. Wow! Big water and high winds. Lots of drama and intrigue. Check the mobile updates to catch up, along with the other sites listed.
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Mark Reports 3-9-10 6:26am
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GPS must be off a bit, missed the channel and is stuck in the mud and the darkness; working his way out. High tide is Noon!
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Note:
With the high winds and cold, I am not getting the phone calls I from all the FC competitors. This is to be expected as all attention needs to be put on the task at hand. With 3 capsizes, broken and lost equipment; who gives a crap about calling the Capt'n.
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I'll try to keep up with the action.
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The Capt'n Reporting

Going green

Tribal drums are calling; we're gone paddl'n. Follow along in the green section to the right. Mobile updates and pics will be uploaded while on the fly. We Gone!

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The Capt'n Reporting

Bulk up

Looks like it is going to be a chilly WaterTribe adventure by Florida standards. Forget about the norms and past experiences in Fla.; get ready for Chill-fest 2010. Received multiple calls from the locals. "Bulk up and pack heavy."
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Quoting every one's favorite mariner; Better a witty fool than a foolish wit. -William Shakespaddle

Ramping it up...

Etch Reports:

Looks like the six man 40 foot canoe will be assembled today.
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NightNavigator and the band of misfits were in the race mode at 9 AM yesterday putting on some miles; they arrived at Etch's boat lift at 4:45 PM. Reported head wind most of the way. Very close to 30 miles. Looks like they went and checked out the new bridge at CP1
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Which begs the question; who and what were paddling yesterday? 3 days and Boo and I are out of here!!