Lake Erie Solo Challenge
August 14 – 24, 2019 – This summer, I accomplished something I’d been thinking of for more than six years. I attempted – and completed – the Great Lakes Singlehanded Society Lake Erie Solo Challenge. The Great Lakes Singlehanded Society is an “organization established for the perpetuation of the sport of solo sailing.” The ONLY way to become a member is to complete one of the five challenges they hold on each of the five Great Lakes. Instead of telling the background story here in the introduction, I’ll spread it through the pictures.
August 14, 2019 - I wanted to leave on Tuesday but a last-minute work trip to New York made that impossible. So, I wasn’t ready to leave until Wednesday. I needed to move the boat from Cleveland to Monroe, Michigan for the start of the challenge. Normally, for a long sail, I’d leave before dawn. But that would put me there before sunrise. I’ve been to Toledo Beach but it’s easier to find dockage when you arrive during the day and leaving early in the morning would get me there in the middle of the night. I left a little before noon.
August 14, 2019 - I wanted to leave on Tuesday but a last-minute work trip to New York made that impossible. So, I wasn’t ready to leave until Wednesday. I needed to move the boat from Cleveland to Monroe, Michigan for the start of the challenge. Normally, for a long sail, I’d leave before dawn. But that would put me there before sunrise. I’ve been to Toledo Beach but it’s easier to find dockage when you arrive during the day and leaving early in the morning would get me there in the middle of the night. I left a little before noon.
Right after departure – a look back towards Whiskey Island Marina and Downtown Cleveland.
Right after departure – a look back towards Whiskey Island Marina and Downtown Cleveland.
Huge bulk carriers unload and load taconite less than a couple hundred yards from where I dock. I’d see dozens of ships out on the lake over the next few weeks.
Huge bulk carriers unload and load taconite less than a couple hundred yards from where I dock. I’d see dozens of ships out on the lake over the next few weeks.
It was a beautiful sailing day.
I never thought I’d be a solo sailor. In 2014, I wanted to sail to Cedar Point and I asked two buddies to help me sail over there. It started out as a great sail but as will often happen on Lake Erie, a storm rolled in and we sought shelter in Vermilion – about 18 miles short of Cedar Point. I bought them beer and wings to help them forget about the near miss with the storm and Kathleen came and picked us up. But then, I still had to get the boat from Vermilion to Sandusky. The next day, I launched, sailed there, and docked by myself. It was only about 3.5 hours but something changed. I wasn’t worried about anyone else on the boat. I realized that if I could manage to sail by myself, I didn’t have to be concerned that anyone on board was uncomfortable, bored, or scared.
I never thought I’d be a solo sailor. In 2014, I wanted to sail to Cedar Point and I asked two buddies to help me sail over there. It started out as a great sail but as will often happen on Lake Erie, a storm rolled in and we sought shelter in Vermilion – about 18 miles short of Cedar Point. I bought them beer and wings to help them forget about the near miss with the storm and Kathleen came and picked us up. But then, I still had to get the boat from Vermilion to Sandusky. The next day, I launched, sailed there, and docked by myself. It was only about 3.5 hours but something changed. I wasn’t worried about anyone else on the boat. I realized that if I could manage to sail by myself, I didn’t have to be concerned that anyone on board was uncomfortable, bored, or scared.
It was a beautiful sailing day.
I never thought I’d be a solo sailor. In 2014, I wanted to sail to Cedar Point and I asked two buddies to help me sail over there. It started out as a great sail but as will often happen on Lake Erie, a storm rolled in and we sought shelter in Vermilion – about 18 miles short of Cedar Point. I bought them beer and wings to help them forget about the near miss with the storm and Kathleen came and picked us up. But then, I still had to get the boat from Vermilion to Sandusky. The next day, I launched, sailed there, and docked by myself. It was only about 3.5 hours but something changed. I wasn’t worried about anyone else on the boat. I realized that if I could manage to sail by myself, I didn’t have to be concerned that anyone on board was uncomfortable, bored, or scared.
I never thought I’d be a solo sailor. In 2014, I wanted to sail to Cedar Point and I asked two buddies to help me sail over there. It started out as a great sail but as will often happen on Lake Erie, a storm rolled in and we sought shelter in Vermilion – about 18 miles short of Cedar Point. I bought them beer and wings to help them forget about the near miss with the storm and Kathleen came and picked us up. But then, I still had to get the boat from Vermilion to Sandusky. The next day, I launched, sailed there, and docked by myself. It was only about 3.5 hours but something changed. I wasn’t worried about anyone else on the boat. I realized that if I could manage to sail by myself, I didn’t have to be concerned that anyone on board was uncomfortable, bored, or scared.
Right in the middle of this picture is a great restaurant – Pier W. It hangs out over the lake and has amazing views. This day, I contributed to their view.
While looking for details about single handed sailing, I ran across The Great Lakes Singlehanded Society(GLSS). It sounded like just what I was interested in. They had a ton of resources – mostly safety related – to sailing by yourself.
While looking for details about single handed sailing, I ran across The Great Lakes Singlehanded Society(GLSS). It sounded like just what I was interested in. They had a ton of resources – mostly safety related – to sailing by yourself.
Right in the middle of this picture is a great restaurant – Pier W. It hangs out over the lake and has amazing views. This day, I contributed to their view.
While looking for details about single handed sailing, I ran across The Great Lakes Singlehanded Society(GLSS). It sounded like just what I was interested in. They had a ton of resources – mostly safety related – to sailing by yourself.
While looking for details about single handed sailing, I ran across The Great Lakes Singlehanded Society(GLSS). It sounded like just what I was interested in. They had a ton of resources – mostly safety related – to sailing by yourself.
Doesn’t this look great? It was. But, I know that there are two things in this picture that will drive some sailors crazy: leaving fenders on deck and not “stowing” my winch handle. To me, nothing screams “knucklehead” more than leaving your fenders hanging overboard when you’re underway. I try to pull mine in as soon as I leave the dock. But, I don’t have a good place to stow them down below. Leaving them on deck doesn’t bother me. As far as the winch handle goes, I’ve never seen one dropped overboard – except when someone was removing it to stow it in a pocket. I have spares below and I’ve never been close to dropping one overboard. I don’t want the extra clutter of the pockets in my cockpit. I consider them stowed when they’re in the winch. Making up your own mind about how you are on your boat is another single-handed benefit.
Doesn’t this look great? It was. But, I know that there are two things in this picture that will drive some sailors crazy: leaving fenders on deck and not “stowing” my winch handle. To me, nothing screams “knucklehead” more than leaving your fenders hanging overboard when you’re underway. I try to pull mine in as soon as I leave the dock. But, I don’t have a good place to stow them down below. Leaving them on deck doesn’t bother me. As far as the winch handle goes, I’ve never seen one dropped overboard – except when someone was removing it to stow it in a pocket. I have spares below and I’ve never been close to dropping one overboard. I don’t want the extra clutter of the pockets in my cockpit. I consider them stowed when they’re in the winch. Making up your own mind about how you are on your boat is another single-handed benefit.
Cleveland from about 10-12 miles out.
During a late-night Bourbon fueled conversation back in 2014, I told Lawrence about the GLSS and he was interested. The GLSS doesn’t make it easy to try one of the challenges. Besides all the safety gear, they require non-members to submit a sailing resume that must be approved by their board. One of the requirements that must be on the resume is a well-documented “Qualifying Sail.” This consists of a sail that must be over 24 hours long and over 100 statute miles.
During a late-night Bourbon fueled conversation back in 2014, I told Lawrence about the GLSS and he was interested. The GLSS doesn’t make it easy to try one of the challenges. Besides all the safety gear, they require non-members to submit a sailing resume that must be approved by their board. One of the requirements that must be on the resume is a well-documented “Qualifying Sail.” This consists of a sail that must be over 24 hours long and over 100 statute miles.
Cleveland from about 10-12 miles out.
During a late-night Bourbon fueled conversation back in 2014, I told Lawrence about the GLSS and he was interested. The GLSS doesn’t make it easy to try one of the challenges. Besides all the safety gear, they require non-members to submit a sailing resume that must be approved by their board. One of the requirements that must be on the resume is a well-documented “Qualifying Sail.” This consists of a sail that must be over 24 hours long and over 100 statute miles.
During a late-night Bourbon fueled conversation back in 2014, I told Lawrence about the GLSS and he was interested. The GLSS doesn’t make it easy to try one of the challenges. Besides all the safety gear, they require non-members to submit a sailing resume that must be approved by their board. One of the requirements that must be on the resume is a well-documented “Qualifying Sail.” This consists of a sail that must be over 24 hours long and over 100 statute miles.
My plan was to sail though Canadian waters between Pelee Island and North Bass Island. There’s a narrow pass through there and the winds were perfect to thread that needle and cut an hour off my trip. That’s North Bass Island just to port and part of Middle Bass Island further south.
Lawrence did his qualifying sail in June of 2015 in one of the worst mayfly swarms ever. It took him 3 days and he was becalmed multiple times. It sounded miserable. I did mine in September of 2015 on a blustery night sailing from Erie, PA to Port Stanley, Ontario. I averaged 6.2 knots for about 17 hours and finished the 100 miles so early I had to just wait until the 24 hours were up before I could go into port. It was a dream sail compared to Lawrence’s mayfly fueled nightmare.
Lawrence did his qualifying sail in June of 2015 in one of the worst mayfly swarms ever. It took him 3 days and he was becalmed multiple times. It sounded miserable. I did mine in September of 2015 on a blustery night sailing from Erie, PA to Port Stanley, Ontario. I averaged 6.2 knots for about 17 hours and finished the 100 miles so early I had to just wait until the 24 hours were up before I could go into port. It was a dream sail compared to Lawrence’s mayfly fueled nightmare.
My plan was to sail though Canadian waters between Pelee Island and North Bass Island. There’s a narrow pass through there and the winds were perfect to thread that needle and cut an hour off my trip. That’s North Bass Island just to port and part of Middle Bass Island further south.
Lawrence did his qualifying sail in June of 2015 in one of the worst mayfly swarms ever. It took him 3 days and he was becalmed multiple times. It sounded miserable. I did mine in September of 2015 on a blustery night sailing from Erie, PA to Port Stanley, Ontario. I averaged 6.2 knots for about 17 hours and finished the 100 miles so early I had to just wait until the 24 hours were up before I could go into port. It was a dream sail compared to Lawrence’s mayfly fueled nightmare.
Lawrence did his qualifying sail in June of 2015 in one of the worst mayfly swarms ever. It took him 3 days and he was becalmed multiple times. It sounded miserable. I did mine in September of 2015 on a blustery night sailing from Erie, PA to Port Stanley, Ontario. I averaged 6.2 knots for about 17 hours and finished the 100 miles so early I had to just wait until the 24 hours were up before I could go into port. It was a dream sail compared to Lawrence’s mayfly fueled nightmare.
Middle Bass Island sunset.
I started amassing the safety gear and doing the boat upgrades that would be necessary to complete the challenge. I was hoping for a 2016 attempt but wasn’t quite ready in time.
I started amassing the safety gear and doing the boat upgrades that would be necessary to complete the challenge. I was hoping for a 2016 attempt but wasn’t quite ready in time.
Middle Bass Island sunset.
I started amassing the safety gear and doing the boat upgrades that would be necessary to complete the challenge. I was hoping for a 2016 attempt but wasn’t quite ready in time.
I started amassing the safety gear and doing the boat upgrades that would be necessary to complete the challenge. I was hoping for a 2016 attempt but wasn’t quite ready in time.
Looking back to the moonrise. I can’t even guess how many times I’ve taken pictures at night while sailing. This might be the first that looks decent. There was a beautiful full moon rising over Middle Island. Interestingly, Middle Island is the southernmost land in Canada.
This night started out wonderfully. I was on pace to arrive at Toledo Beach a little before sunrise and the sailing was great. Maybe a little too great. I didn’t really want to arrive too early. Well, the wind shifted to the northeast, increased to 20+ knots and the waves grew to the point where I was getting 3-4 footers on my starboard aft quarter and I was flying. It wasn’t very comfortable, so I ended up getting in at 3:00 am after all.
This night started out wonderfully. I was on pace to arrive at Toledo Beach a little before sunrise and the sailing was great. Maybe a little too great. I didn’t really want to arrive too early. Well, the wind shifted to the northeast, increased to 20+ knots and the waves grew to the point where I was getting 3-4 footers on my starboard aft quarter and I was flying. It wasn’t very comfortable, so I ended up getting in at 3:00 am after all.
Looking back to the moonrise. I can’t even guess how many times I’ve taken pictures at night while sailing. This might be the first that looks decent. There was a beautiful full moon rising over Middle Island. Interestingly, Middle Island is the southernmost land in Canada.
This night started out wonderfully. I was on pace to arrive at Toledo Beach a little before sunrise and the sailing was great. Maybe a little too great. I didn’t really want to arrive too early. Well, the wind shifted to the northeast, increased to 20+ knots and the waves grew to the point where I was getting 3-4 footers on my starboard aft quarter and I was flying. It wasn’t very comfortable, so I ended up getting in at 3:00 am after all.
This night started out wonderfully. I was on pace to arrive at Toledo Beach a little before sunrise and the sailing was great. Maybe a little too great. I didn’t really want to arrive too early. Well, the wind shifted to the northeast, increased to 20+ knots and the waves grew to the point where I was getting 3-4 footers on my starboard aft quarter and I was flying. It wasn’t very comfortable, so I ended up getting in at 3:00 am after all.
August 15, 2019 - I tied up at the Toledo Beach Marina gas dock and got a few hours of sleep.
Lawrence was planning on a western Lake Erie cruise in 2015 so he planned to be at Toledo Beach to find out more about the start of the 2015 Lake Erie Solo Challenge (LESC). I joined him on his boat and we double-handed from Port Clinton up to Toledo Beach.
Lawrence was planning on a western Lake Erie cruise in 2015 so he planned to be at Toledo Beach to find out more about the start of the 2015 Lake Erie Solo Challenge (LESC). I joined him on his boat and we double-handed from Port Clinton up to Toledo Beach.
August 15, 2019 - I tied up at the Toledo Beach Marina gas dock and got a few hours of sleep.
Lawrence was planning on a western Lake Erie cruise in 2015 so he planned to be at Toledo Beach to find out more about the start of the 2015 Lake Erie Solo Challenge (LESC). I joined him on his boat and we double-handed from Port Clinton up to Toledo Beach.
Lawrence was planning on a western Lake Erie cruise in 2015 so he planned to be at Toledo Beach to find out more about the start of the 2015 Lake Erie Solo Challenge (LESC). I joined him on his boat and we double-handed from Port Clinton up to Toledo Beach.
Pre-dawn looking back out the Toledo Beach channel. This is about as far west as my boat can get in Lake Erie without being in Toledo.
Lawrence and I generally just nosed around before the start of the 2015 LESC and were immediately welcomed by that year’s participants. They invited us to the captain’s meeting Friday night and introduced us to the group.
Lawrence and I generally just nosed around before the start of the 2015 LESC and were immediately welcomed by that year’s participants. They invited us to the captain’s meeting Friday night and introduced us to the group.
Pre-dawn looking back out the Toledo Beach channel. This is about as far west as my boat can get in Lake Erie without being in Toledo.
Lawrence and I generally just nosed around before the start of the 2015 LESC and were immediately welcomed by that year’s participants. They invited us to the captain’s meeting Friday night and introduced us to the group.
Lawrence and I generally just nosed around before the start of the 2015 LESC and were immediately welcomed by that year’s participants. They invited us to the captain’s meeting Friday night and introduced us to the group.
The view of North Cape Yacht Club from Toledo Beach Marina. This open space on the wall is where most of the GLSS boats will be tying up in the next 24 hours.
After meeting all the captains in the 2015 LESC, Lawrence and I sailed his boat out to follow the fleet as they sailed toward Pelee Pass and Buffalo. At night, he and I took 2-hour watches – something no one in the LESC fleet could do. The conditions that night were pretty bumpy: 4-6 footers and 20-25 knots of wind. Lawrence still complains about how well I slept in my 2 hours off watches while it would take him most of his off watch to fall asleep.
After meeting all the captains in the 2015 LESC, Lawrence and I sailed his boat out to follow the fleet as they sailed toward Pelee Pass and Buffalo. At night, he and I took 2-hour watches – something no one in the LESC fleet could do. The conditions that night were pretty bumpy: 4-6 footers and 20-25 knots of wind. Lawrence still complains about how well I slept in my 2 hours off watches while it would take him most of his off watch to fall asleep.
The view of North Cape Yacht Club from Toledo Beach Marina. This open space on the wall is where most of the GLSS boats will be tying up in the next 24 hours.
After meeting all the captains in the 2015 LESC, Lawrence and I sailed his boat out to follow the fleet as they sailed toward Pelee Pass and Buffalo. At night, he and I took 2-hour watches – something no one in the LESC fleet could do. The conditions that night were pretty bumpy: 4-6 footers and 20-25 knots of wind. Lawrence still complains about how well I slept in my 2 hours off watches while it would take him most of his off watch to fall asleep.
After meeting all the captains in the 2015 LESC, Lawrence and I sailed his boat out to follow the fleet as they sailed toward Pelee Pass and Buffalo. At night, he and I took 2-hour watches – something no one in the LESC fleet could do. The conditions that night were pretty bumpy: 4-6 footers and 20-25 knots of wind. Lawrence still complains about how well I slept in my 2 hours off watches while it would take him most of his off watch to fall asleep.
It was still early in the morning so I walked around to see who I could find. This is the view of my boat from the other side of the channel. This makes me happy. I think she's yar.
It was still early in the morning so I walked around to see who I could find. This is the view of my boat from the other side of the channel. This makes me happy. I think she's yar.
Instead of docking with the fleet, I got a very quiet dock around the corner from the club. This turned out great because where they were all docked, it got very loud from the Sand Bar restaurant across the channel. It was completely quiet and still here.
Instead of docking with the fleet, I got a very quiet dock around the corner from the club. This turned out great because where they were all docked, it got very loud from the Sand Bar restaurant across the channel. It was completely quiet and still here.
On Thursday, I mostly rested. A long recuperative nap after sailing all night and I cooked dinner on board and listened to the Tribe knock the stuffing out of the Yankees while a couple pleasant showers rolled through.
On Thursday, I mostly rested. A long recuperative nap after sailing all night and I cooked dinner on board and listened to the Tribe knock the stuffing out of the Yankees while a couple pleasant showers rolled through.
August 16, 2019 – On Friday, several of us made a run to West Marine and the grocery store. I worked from my boat a little and we had the captain’s meeting at the North Cape Yacht Club. I took no pictures during the meeting. I had too much on my mind and didn’t even think of it.
August 16, 2019 – On Friday, several of us made a run to West Marine and the grocery store. I worked from my boat a little and we had the captain’s meeting at the North Cape Yacht Club. I took no pictures during the meeting. I had too much on my mind and didn’t even think of it.
Looking east from the western end of Lake Erie.
In 2015, as the LESC fleet continued to Buffalo and one of the hardest GLSS challenges ever, Lawrence and I finished our sail by going back to Cleveland. It was about 30 hours for us instead of the 3-4 days for the fleet.
In 2015, as the LESC fleet continued to Buffalo and one of the hardest GLSS challenges ever, Lawrence and I finished our sail by going back to Cleveland. It was about 30 hours for us instead of the 3-4 days for the fleet.
Looking east from the western end of Lake Erie.
In 2015, as the LESC fleet continued to Buffalo and one of the hardest GLSS challenges ever, Lawrence and I finished our sail by going back to Cleveland. It was about 30 hours for us instead of the 3-4 days for the fleet.
In 2015, as the LESC fleet continued to Buffalo and one of the hardest GLSS challenges ever, Lawrence and I finished our sail by going back to Cleveland. It was about 30 hours for us instead of the 3-4 days for the fleet.
Both North Cape Yacht Club at the start, and Erie Yacht Club at the finish were great hosts.
Both North Cape Yacht Club at the start, and Erie Yacht Club at the finish were great hosts.
August 17, 2019 – It was time to motor out to the lake and get started.
August 17, 2019 – It was time to motor out to the lake and get started.
It was a beautiful but overcast morning with an excellent forecast for the next few days. The rest of the fleet is pulling away from the dock.
It was a beautiful but overcast morning with an excellent forecast for the next few days. The rest of the fleet is pulling away from the dock.
Duke, a fellow “non-member” is ready to go.
Duke, a fellow “non-member” is ready to go.
I was one of the first boats out and the fleet came out behind me.
After witnessing the start of the 2015 LESC, Lawrence had decided to try to join the GLSS. But there was a bunch of safety equipment to buy and some work would need to be done to our boats to get them ready. I started in earnest that winter going through the GLSS checklists to make sure I had everything they required.
After witnessing the start of the 2015 LESC, Lawrence had decided to try to join the GLSS. But there was a bunch of safety equipment to buy and some work would need to be done to our boats to get them ready. I started in earnest that winter going through the GLSS checklists to make sure I had everything they required.
I was one of the first boats out and the fleet came out behind me.
After witnessing the start of the 2015 LESC, Lawrence had decided to try to join the GLSS. But there was a bunch of safety equipment to buy and some work would need to be done to our boats to get them ready. I started in earnest that winter going through the GLSS checklists to make sure I had everything they required.
After witnessing the start of the 2015 LESC, Lawrence had decided to try to join the GLSS. But there was a bunch of safety equipment to buy and some work would need to be done to our boats to get them ready. I started in earnest that winter going through the GLSS checklists to make sure I had everything they required.
Most of these guys are racers. It’s going to be a downwind start, so the guys who know they’re going to fly spinnakers aren’t bothering with a genoa.
In the spring of 2017, I had most of the equipment needed to participate in the LESC but Kathleen had a great idea to take Meredith and Madeline to Europe for their first time and taking the additional time off to do the LESC just wasn’t possible that year. I even started questioning why I’d even want to do this. Lawrence took a month to sail to Lake Michigan and back so 2017 wouldn’t work for him either.
In the spring of 2017, I had most of the equipment needed to participate in the LESC but Kathleen had a great idea to take Meredith and Madeline to Europe for their first time and taking the additional time off to do the LESC just wasn’t possible that year. I even started questioning why I’d even want to do this. Lawrence took a month to sail to Lake Michigan and back so 2017 wouldn’t work for him either.
Most of these guys are racers. It’s going to be a downwind start, so the guys who know they’re going to fly spinnakers aren’t bothering with a genoa.
In the spring of 2017, I had most of the equipment needed to participate in the LESC but Kathleen had a great idea to take Meredith and Madeline to Europe for their first time and taking the additional time off to do the LESC just wasn’t possible that year. I even started questioning why I’d even want to do this. Lawrence took a month to sail to Lake Michigan and back so 2017 wouldn’t work for him either.
In the spring of 2017, I had most of the equipment needed to participate in the LESC but Kathleen had a great idea to take Meredith and Madeline to Europe for their first time and taking the additional time off to do the LESC just wasn’t possible that year. I even started questioning why I’d even want to do this. Lawrence took a month to sail to Lake Michigan and back so 2017 wouldn’t work for him either.
And we’re off. I was not aggressive at the start – or anytime during the challenge. But, I managed to not be the last boat over the start. However, I had an inauspicious start. A couple minutes after the start, I looked up and noticed that my top mainsail batten was hanging out of the sail about 10 inches. I had to find the tool to tuck the batten, douse my main, fix the problem, turn the boat into the wind and rehoist the main. Doing things single-handedly take way longer than you’d expect and it probably took me over 20 minutes to complete this relatively easy task.
And we’re off. I was not aggressive at the start – or anytime during the challenge. But, I managed to not be the last boat over the start. However, I had an inauspicious start. A couple minutes after the start, I looked up and noticed that my top mainsail batten was hanging out of the sail about 10 inches. I had to find the tool to tuck the batten, douse my main, fix the problem, turn the boat into the wind and rehoist the main. Doing things single-handedly take way longer than you’d expect and it probably took me over 20 minutes to complete this relatively easy task.
Even though I’ve launched a spinnaker hundreds of times as crew on other boats. I’ve done it single-handed on my boat exactly once. And that time, Kathleen was on board. I had not intended to fly the spinnaker during the challenge but I had it onboard in case the conditions were as follows: light winds of 6-10 knots, flat seas, daytime, and nothing better to do. For some reason, I was imagining those conditions for Sunday afternoon. Not immediately after the start. But those were the conditions I had. I might as well get the thing rigged and launched. After having the port sheet fall under the bow and getting the spinnaker in a huge figure 8, I got it launched and pulling nicely.
Even though I’ve launched a spinnaker hundreds of times as crew on other boats. I’ve done it single-handed on my boat exactly once. And that time, Kathleen was on board. I had not intended to fly the spinnaker during the challenge but I had it onboard in case the conditions were as follows: light winds of 6-10 knots, flat seas, daytime, and nothing better to do. For some reason, I was imagining those conditions for Sunday afternoon. Not immediately after the start. But those were the conditions I had. I might as well get the thing rigged and launched. After having the port sheet fall under the bow and getting the spinnaker in a huge figure 8, I got it launched and pulling nicely.
The tribe game was on and I got it loud and clear from the Toledo station.
The tribe game was on and I got it loud and clear from the Toledo station.
I flew the spinnaker for almost five hours and it was fantastic. Unfortunately, my inexperience at handling the spinnaker by myself caused me to tear the block loose from the sock which allows me to hoist and douse it by myself. It’s completely repairable but only at the safety of my sewing machine - not while underway. So, my spinnaker was no longer available to me for the rest of the challenge.
I flew the spinnaker for almost five hours and it was fantastic. Unfortunately, my inexperience at handling the spinnaker by myself caused me to tear the block loose from the sock which allows me to hoist and douse it by myself. It’s completely repairable but only at the safety of my sewing machine - not while underway. So, my spinnaker was no longer available to me for the rest of the challenge.
I passed just south of East Sister Island; an Ontario nature reserve covered by double-crested cormorants – loud smelly birds.
I passed just south of East Sister Island; an Ontario nature reserve covered by double-crested cormorants – loud smelly birds.
Jack on Nebesa as we approach Pelee Island.
Jack on Nebesa as we approach Pelee Island.
This is the Pelee Passage Light on the right and Point Pelee on the left. Point Pelee is the southernmost point of the Canadian mainland.
This is the Pelee Passage Light on the right and Point Pelee on the left. Point Pelee is the southernmost point of the Canadian mainland.
Pelee Passage Light was built in 1975. I can’t imagine being flown here by helicopter and manning that tower, but it has to be great. They fire off a propane cannon to chase off the birds. The birds ignore it.
Pelee Passage Light was built in 1975. I can’t imagine being flown here by helicopter and manning that tower, but it has to be great. They fire off a propane cannon to chase off the birds. The birds ignore it.
Just before sunset on the first day. This is my last view of a couple companions for a few days. Directly behind me is Wally on Odyssey and way off to the left is Rod on Windigo II. Both finish way before me but at this point, I had hopes of not being last.
Just before sunset on the first day. This is my last view of a couple companions for a few days. Directly behind me is Wally on Odyssey and way off to the left is Rod on Windigo II. Both finish way before me but at this point, I had hopes of not being last.
August 18, 2019 – Day 2. Wow, what a night. I got to experience my first significant thunderstorm while sailing. 30 knot winds and a lot of thunder and lightning but I was ready for it and it wasn’t too bad. It only lasted about 11 minutes for me. Later, I heard that Rod got hit much harder and was knocked down. But generally, it was a pleasant night. Comically, Lawrence sailed up from Cleveland and met the fleet. He saw several of the boats and I talked to him on VHF but I never spotted him.
August 18, 2019 – Day 2. Wow, what a night. I got to experience my first significant thunderstorm while sailing. 30 knot winds and a lot of thunder and lightning but I was ready for it and it wasn’t too bad. It only lasted about 11 minutes for me. Later, I heard that Rod got hit much harder and was knocked down. But generally, it was a pleasant night. Comically, Lawrence sailed up from Cleveland and met the fleet. He saw several of the boats and I talked to him on VHF but I never spotted him.
Day 2 was quite the day. By now, I was in the back of the fleet but the conditions were fast and I was flying. Unfortunately, my autohelm was having a hard time keeping up. I was getting 3-5 foot quartering waves from starboard in 20 knots of winds for about 7 hours. I spent most of the day assisting my autohelm which would alarm if I left it for more than a couple minutes. It was exhausting.
Day 2 was quite the day. By now, I was in the back of the fleet but the conditions were fast and I was flying. Unfortunately, my autohelm was having a hard time keeping up. I was getting 3-5 foot quartering waves from starboard in 20 knots of winds for about 7 hours. I spent most of the day assisting my autohelm which would alarm if I left it for more than a couple minutes. It was exhausting.
This was my day before the waves picked up.
This was my day before the waves picked up.
Looking back in the evening before sunset. Wow. This night was one to remember. The forecast was something like “2-4 foot waves with 10-15 knots from the south west. Wind and waves may be higher near thunderstorms.” The forecast started mentioning thunderstorms more and more as the day progressed and it seemed pretty likely that we’d get one. After last night, I didn’t think it would be too bad.
In the evening, I watched as a huge thunderstorm came up from behind me and passed to the north. I was just south of Long Point and watched as the almost constant lightning lit up the waterspouts. I was relieved it missed me. Then, a little after midnight, I saw another cell coming on my radar. I got my main down, genoa pulled in to storm sail size, closed all my hatches, and got my foul weather gear on. The warning mentioned thunderstorms with winds up to 45 knots. I had spent thousands of dollars upgrading the boat. I really wasn’t too concerned. The only thing that was likely to hurt me was lightning and there was nothing I could do about that. About five seconds before it hit me (well before it hit the rest of the fleet who were way ahead of me), Russ from one of the other boats, got on the VHF and said, “Okay. Time to step up.” which made me laugh.
In the evening, I watched as a huge thunderstorm came up from behind me and passed to the north. I was just south of Long Point and watched as the almost constant lightning lit up the waterspouts. I was relieved it missed me. Then, a little after midnight, I saw another cell coming on my radar. I got my main down, genoa pulled in to storm sail size, closed all my hatches, and got my foul weather gear on. The warning mentioned thunderstorms with winds up to 45 knots. I had spent thousands of dollars upgrading the boat. I really wasn’t too concerned. The only thing that was likely to hurt me was lightning and there was nothing I could do about that. About five seconds before it hit me (well before it hit the rest of the fleet who were way ahead of me), Russ from one of the other boats, got on the VHF and said, “Okay. Time to step up.” which made me laugh.
Looking back in the evening before sunset. Wow. This night was one to remember. The forecast was something like “2-4 foot waves with 10-15 knots from the south west. Wind and waves may be higher near thunderstorms.” The forecast started mentioning thunderstorms more and more as the day progressed and it seemed pretty likely that we’d get one. After last night, I didn’t think it would be too bad.
In the evening, I watched as a huge thunderstorm came up from behind me and passed to the north. I was just south of Long Point and watched as the almost constant lightning lit up the waterspouts. I was relieved it missed me. Then, a little after midnight, I saw another cell coming on my radar. I got my main down, genoa pulled in to storm sail size, closed all my hatches, and got my foul weather gear on. The warning mentioned thunderstorms with winds up to 45 knots. I had spent thousands of dollars upgrading the boat. I really wasn’t too concerned. The only thing that was likely to hurt me was lightning and there was nothing I could do about that. About five seconds before it hit me (well before it hit the rest of the fleet who were way ahead of me), Russ from one of the other boats, got on the VHF and said, “Okay. Time to step up.” which made me laugh.
In the evening, I watched as a huge thunderstorm came up from behind me and passed to the north. I was just south of Long Point and watched as the almost constant lightning lit up the waterspouts. I was relieved it missed me. Then, a little after midnight, I saw another cell coming on my radar. I got my main down, genoa pulled in to storm sail size, closed all my hatches, and got my foul weather gear on. The warning mentioned thunderstorms with winds up to 45 knots. I had spent thousands of dollars upgrading the boat. I really wasn’t too concerned. The only thing that was likely to hurt me was lightning and there was nothing I could do about that. About five seconds before it hit me (well before it hit the rest of the fleet who were way ahead of me), Russ from one of the other boats, got on the VHF and said, “Okay. Time to step up.” which made me laugh.
August 19, 2019 - Well, it was exciting. I had 6-8 foot waves. I saw 48 knots (55mph) on my anemometer but I heard of others who saw 54 knots. The rain was coming down so hard that shining my spotlight into the rain made it look like milk and the water pooled a couple inches deep in my cockpit before draining out the scuppers. The lightning was everywhere but I saw no waterspouts. I generally couldn’t see more than 30 feet. This screenshot of my chartplotter shows 37.9 knots of wind. The cell that I’m in the center of is about 16 miles across and I’m heeled to port at a 28-degree angle. I’m hove to which means that I’m not trying to sail. I’ve locked my sails and wheel down in a position that should face me to the storm in a favorable direction. But even then, I’m going 2.4 knots – just not in the direction I ultimately want to go. The storm lasted about 45 minutes. I would not leave the dock knowing that I’d be in a storm like this. But being here and being prepared, it was kind of enjoyable – in an intense way. I knew Lawrence would be jealous. He fantasizes about this happening to him.
August 19, 2019 - Well, it was exciting. I had 6-8 foot waves. I saw 48 knots (55mph) on my anemometer but I heard of others who saw 54 knots. The rain was coming down so hard that shining my spotlight into the rain made it look like milk and the water pooled a couple inches deep in my cockpit before draining out the scuppers. The lightning was everywhere but I saw no waterspouts. I generally couldn’t see more than 30 feet. This screenshot of my chartplotter shows 37.9 knots of wind. The cell that I’m in the center of is about 16 miles across and I’m heeled to port at a 28-degree angle. I’m hove to which means that I’m not trying to sail. I’ve locked my sails and wheel down in a position that should face me to the storm in a favorable direction. But even then, I’m going 2.4 knots – just not in the direction I ultimately want to go. The storm lasted about 45 minutes. I would not leave the dock knowing that I’d be in a storm like this. But being here and being prepared, it was kind of enjoyable – in an intense way. I knew Lawrence would be jealous. He fantasizes about this happening to him.
After the storm passed, the wind dropped to less than 15 knots but the waves were really square and still 3-4 footers. It was time to sail on. I managed to get a picture about a half hour after the storm and after I had let out a little more genoa. During the storm, it was about half this size. I sailed using this configuration for a couple hours still doing about five knots. I was exhausted after having to hand steer most of the day before.
After the storm passed, the wind dropped to less than 15 knots but the waves were really square and still 3-4 footers. It was time to sail on. I managed to get a picture about a half hour after the storm and after I had let out a little more genoa. During the storm, it was about half this size. I sailed using this configuration for a couple hours still doing about five knots. I was exhausted after having to hand steer most of the day before.
By morning, the conditions had become pretty nice. I was still sailing downwind and my autohelm really didn’t like it. I had a complete spare autohelm head unit on board. The old one was managing to know the direction - it just couldn’t maintain it without my help. I adjusted the clutches several times and it would improve it for a little while. But, ultimately, I had to stay at the helm.
By morning, the conditions had become pretty nice. I was still sailing downwind and my autohelm really didn’t like it. I had a complete spare autohelm head unit on board. The old one was managing to know the direction - it just couldn’t maintain it without my help. I adjusted the clutches several times and it would improve it for a little while. But, ultimately, I had to stay at the helm.
Buffalo Skyline
By the spring of 2018, I had decided that joining the GLSS just wasn’t a priority for me any longer. I’d rather take my time to cruise and see new places. A four-day sailing marathon sounded less fun and I told Kathleen that I had abandoned the idea – to her relief – and incredulity.
By the spring of 2018, I had decided that joining the GLSS just wasn’t a priority for me any longer. I’d rather take my time to cruise and see new places. A four-day sailing marathon sounded less fun and I told Kathleen that I had abandoned the idea – to her relief – and incredulity.
Buffalo Skyline
By the spring of 2018, I had decided that joining the GLSS just wasn’t a priority for me any longer. I’d rather take my time to cruise and see new places. A four-day sailing marathon sounded less fun and I told Kathleen that I had abandoned the idea – to her relief – and incredulity.
By the spring of 2018, I had decided that joining the GLSS just wasn’t a priority for me any longer. I’d rather take my time to cruise and see new places. A four-day sailing marathon sounded less fun and I told Kathleen that I had abandoned the idea – to her relief – and incredulity.
The course for the LESC goes from Michigan and turns around a navigation buoy on Seneca Shoal. This is that buoy. I'm glad I didn't have to find it at night.
The course for the LESC goes from Michigan and turns around a navigation buoy on Seneca Shoal. This is that buoy. I'm glad I didn't have to find it at night.
By rounding this, I had sailed Lake Erie end to end. When I rounded it, Lawrence texted me, “You can die now.” I was very tired but still wanted to finish.
By rounding this, I had sailed Lake Erie end to end. When I rounded it, Lawrence texted me, “You can die now.” I was very tired but still wanted to finish.
Since I’d been struggling with the autohelm, I was very worried when I rounded Seneca Shoal. Now, I needed to beat into the west wind to return to Erie to finish and I doubted that it could do it. I was considering sailing near shore and anchoring to take some time to swap the autohelm. Anchoring is within the rules as long as I receive no outside assistance and don’t use my motor to advance my position. As it turned out, the autohelm loved beating upwind. I was beating into 16-18 knots of wind and 2-4 footers heeled over close to 30 degrees and the autohelm worked like a champ. I was finally able to start getting some better rest. Of course, that rest consists of setting a timer for 20 minutes and getting up to make sure everything is okay before setting the timer for 20 minutes again. String six of those together and you get something that poorly resembles two hours of sleep. This was by far the hardest part of doing the challenge – getting the rest.
Since I’d been struggling with the autohelm, I was very worried when I rounded Seneca Shoal. Now, I needed to beat into the west wind to return to Erie to finish and I doubted that it could do it. I was considering sailing near shore and anchoring to take some time to swap the autohelm. Anchoring is within the rules as long as I receive no outside assistance and don’t use my motor to advance my position. As it turned out, the autohelm loved beating upwind. I was beating into 16-18 knots of wind and 2-4 footers heeled over close to 30 degrees and the autohelm worked like a champ. I was finally able to start getting some better rest. Of course, that rest consists of setting a timer for 20 minutes and getting up to make sure everything is okay before setting the timer for 20 minutes again. String six of those together and you get something that poorly resembles two hours of sleep. This was by far the hardest part of doing the challenge – getting the rest.
Another problem with getting rest is that the east end of Lake Erie is fairly narrow which necessitates the tacks to be relatively short. So, I got to snatch two 20-minute rests before getting back on deck and preparing for the next maneuver. I made progressively longer tacks while on port – away from shore – to get more rest. This shoreline is near Walden Cliffs, New York and my picture doesn’t do its beauty justice.
Another problem with getting rest is that the east end of Lake Erie is fairly narrow which necessitates the tacks to be relatively short. So, I got to snatch two 20-minute rests before getting back on deck and preparing for the next maneuver. I made progressively longer tacks while on port – away from shore – to get more rest. This shoreline is near Walden Cliffs, New York and my picture doesn’t do its beauty justice.
By sunset, the wind had dropped to about 10 knots, but I was still getting 2-3 footers. Luckily, the wind was forecast to shift to the north, so instead of tacking all the way back to Erie, I might get a nice reach.
By sunset, the wind had dropped to about 10 knots, but I was still getting 2-3 footers. Luckily, the wind was forecast to shift to the north, so instead of tacking all the way back to Erie, I might get a nice reach.
August 20, 2019 – Just before sunrise and I finally woke up. The wind had dropped to 4-6 knots around midnight. I was doing my 20-minute stretches at the helm – sleeping with my feet stuck through the pushpit - the stern railing. I brought a pillow up and stretched out on the starboard seat in the cockpit and it was nice and quiet, and I was still making 2-3 knots. These type of nights are among my favorites. The milky way lights up brightly and the spectacle takes your breath away.
And then, my alarm no longer woke me. I slept adrift from about 2:30 until 5. I was unhappy when I realized I had gone in the wrong direction for over an hour, but I just couldn’t help it. I was exhausted. When I awoke, I pointed the boat to Erie.
And then, my alarm no longer woke me. I slept adrift from about 2:30 until 5. I was unhappy when I realized I had gone in the wrong direction for over an hour, but I just couldn’t help it. I was exhausted. When I awoke, I pointed the boat to Erie.
August 20, 2019 – Just before sunrise and I finally woke up. The wind had dropped to 4-6 knots around midnight. I was doing my 20-minute stretches at the helm – sleeping with my feet stuck through the pushpit - the stern railing. I brought a pillow up and stretched out on the starboard seat in the cockpit and it was nice and quiet, and I was still making 2-3 knots. These type of nights are among my favorites. The milky way lights up brightly and the spectacle takes your breath away.
And then, my alarm no longer woke me. I slept adrift from about 2:30 until 5. I was unhappy when I realized I had gone in the wrong direction for over an hour, but I just couldn’t help it. I was exhausted. When I awoke, I pointed the boat to Erie.
And then, my alarm no longer woke me. I slept adrift from about 2:30 until 5. I was unhappy when I realized I had gone in the wrong direction for over an hour, but I just couldn’t help it. I was exhausted. When I awoke, I pointed the boat to Erie.
The sun is just about to come up. I had very little wind, but it was pushing me straight to Erie. All I needed now was patience.
The sun is just about to come up. I had very little wind, but it was pushing me straight to Erie. All I needed now was patience.
Mid-morning, my wildest dreams for the day came true. 10-12 knots of wind on a close reach. I was on pace to finish by lunch time.
Mid-morning, my wildest dreams for the day came true. 10-12 knots of wind on a close reach. I was on pace to finish by lunch time.
But then, my lunch time hopes were dashed. The wind moved to the northeast and I was sailing pretty much dead downwind – slowly. I took about 20 pictures like this during the day. I gybed more times than I could count. Back and forth and back and forth in anywhere from 4-8 knot wind. Now, is the time where I wished I wouldn't have screwed up my spinnaker three days before.
I saw Jeff on Quattour a little to my south. He had problems during the challenge and was now motoring to Erie from Dunkirk, NY. He told me he’d see me at dinner but at the pace I was going it was more likely that I’d meet him for breakfast the next morning. Honestly, it was a fantastic day. It was slow and long but I was confident that I was going to finish.
I saw Jeff on Quattour a little to my south. He had problems during the challenge and was now motoring to Erie from Dunkirk, NY. He told me he’d see me at dinner but at the pace I was going it was more likely that I’d meet him for breakfast the next morning. Honestly, it was a fantastic day. It was slow and long but I was confident that I was going to finish.
But then, my lunch time hopes were dashed. The wind moved to the northeast and I was sailing pretty much dead downwind – slowly. I took about 20 pictures like this during the day. I gybed more times than I could count. Back and forth and back and forth in anywhere from 4-8 knot wind. Now, is the time where I wished I wouldn't have screwed up my spinnaker three days before.
I saw Jeff on Quattour a little to my south. He had problems during the challenge and was now motoring to Erie from Dunkirk, NY. He told me he’d see me at dinner but at the pace I was going it was more likely that I’d meet him for breakfast the next morning. Honestly, it was a fantastic day. It was slow and long but I was confident that I was going to finish.
I saw Jeff on Quattour a little to my south. He had problems during the challenge and was now motoring to Erie from Dunkirk, NY. He told me he’d see me at dinner but at the pace I was going it was more likely that I’d meet him for breakfast the next morning. Honestly, it was a fantastic day. It was slow and long but I was confident that I was going to finish.
Lawrence mentioned that he was going to come up to Erie at some point but was non-committal as to when. He took this picture from the breakwall at Presque Isle while I was still over a mile from Erie.
In 2017, the GLSS had become less of a priority for Lawrence too – albeit not abandoned. He was looking for something to do after his long cruise of 2017 and decided to attempt the LESC in 2018. And since I had 90% of the safety gear which I would happily loan him, he signed up to do the LESC in 2018.
In 2017, the GLSS had become less of a priority for Lawrence too – albeit not abandoned. He was looking for something to do after his long cruise of 2017 and decided to attempt the LESC in 2018. And since I had 90% of the safety gear which I would happily loan him, he signed up to do the LESC in 2018.
Lawrence mentioned that he was going to come up to Erie at some point but was non-committal as to when. He took this picture from the breakwall at Presque Isle while I was still over a mile from Erie.
In 2017, the GLSS had become less of a priority for Lawrence too – albeit not abandoned. He was looking for something to do after his long cruise of 2017 and decided to attempt the LESC in 2018. And since I had 90% of the safety gear which I would happily loan him, he signed up to do the LESC in 2018.
In 2017, the GLSS had become less of a priority for Lawrence too – albeit not abandoned. He was looking for something to do after his long cruise of 2017 and decided to attempt the LESC in 2018. And since I had 90% of the safety gear which I would happily loan him, he signed up to do the LESC in 2018.
The finish line for the challenge is the red “R2” entrance buoy entering Erie harbor extending south to shore. This is the buoy as I finished.
Lawrence, the bastard, completed the LESC and became a member of the GLSS in 2018. I drove up to Erie when he arrived to welcome and congratulate him with a bottle of Scotch. I was invited to the luncheon on Wednesday where during Lawrence’s speech, I agreed – in front of everyone – to attempt the LESC in 2019.
Lawrence, the bastard, completed the LESC and became a member of the GLSS in 2018. I drove up to Erie when he arrived to welcome and congratulate him with a bottle of Scotch. I was invited to the luncheon on Wednesday where during Lawrence’s speech, I agreed – in front of everyone – to attempt the LESC in 2019.
The finish line for the challenge is the red “R2” entrance buoy entering Erie harbor extending south to shore. This is the buoy as I finished.
Lawrence, the bastard, completed the LESC and became a member of the GLSS in 2018. I drove up to Erie when he arrived to welcome and congratulate him with a bottle of Scotch. I was invited to the luncheon on Wednesday where during Lawrence’s speech, I agreed – in front of everyone – to attempt the LESC in 2019.
Lawrence, the bastard, completed the LESC and became a member of the GLSS in 2018. I drove up to Erie when he arrived to welcome and congratulate him with a bottle of Scotch. I was invited to the luncheon on Wednesday where during Lawrence’s speech, I agreed – in front of everyone – to attempt the LESC in 2019.
…and the green buoy on the other side of the entrance. Technically, you don’t have to go between these two. Anywhere south of the red buoy is fine but going between them feels right. My time was 3 days, 8 hours, 33 minutes. I finished 11th – out of 11. But I “beat” the four guys who didn’t finish. And because of one of the withdrawals I finished 3rd in my class. I would have rather seen Ron at the Wednesday luncheon than take his 3rd place flag but I’m happy to have it nonetheless.
My time was 33 minutes less than Lawrence’s was the year before. (This is not a fair comparison because every challenge has different conditions. But I still beat him, and he knows it.)
My time was 33 minutes less than Lawrence’s was the year before. (This is not a fair comparison because every challenge has different conditions. But I still beat him, and he knows it.)
…and the green buoy on the other side of the entrance. Technically, you don’t have to go between these two. Anywhere south of the red buoy is fine but going between them feels right. My time was 3 days, 8 hours, 33 minutes. I finished 11th – out of 11. But I “beat” the four guys who didn’t finish. And because of one of the withdrawals I finished 3rd in my class. I would have rather seen Ron at the Wednesday luncheon than take his 3rd place flag but I’m happy to have it nonetheless.
My time was 33 minutes less than Lawrence’s was the year before. (This is not a fair comparison because every challenge has different conditions. But I still beat him, and he knows it.)
My time was 33 minutes less than Lawrence’s was the year before. (This is not a fair comparison because every challenge has different conditions. But I still beat him, and he knows it.)
Lawrence’s picture of me crossing the finish line.
Lawrence’s picture of me crossing the finish line.
After I got the engine started and the sails down, I still had an hour to motor to Erie Yacht Club. This is the Erie Harbor Pierhead Light.
After I got the engine started and the sails down, I still had an hour to motor to Erie Yacht Club. This is the Erie Harbor Pierhead Light.
Lawrence’s picture of me motoring past the light – on the phone with Kathleen.
Lawrence’s picture of me motoring past the light – on the phone with Kathleen.
About then, I realized that Lawrence might be onshore. I turned back to look. There he is!
About then, I realized that Lawrence might be onshore. I turned back to look. There he is!
Downtown Erie’s waterfront. It may be the best waterfront on Lake Erie.
Downtown Erie’s waterfront. It may be the best waterfront on Lake Erie.
Erie Yacht Club
Erie Yacht Club
Lawrence drove ahead and beat me to the club.
Lawrence drove ahead and beat me to the club.
The best part of being last and coming in at dinner time, was that the rest of the fleet was just ordering dinner when I came in. In a magnanimous display, they all came out to welcome me to the dock and congratulate me. I’ve never had such a prestigious audience watch me dock. They scrambled onboard and handled the lines – which is a stark contrast of how I normally must do it single-handed. Dan, Wally, Steve, Duke, and Paul
The best part of being last and coming in at dinner time, was that the rest of the fleet was just ordering dinner when I came in. In a magnanimous display, they all came out to welcome me to the dock and congratulate me. I’ve never had such a prestigious audience watch me dock. They scrambled onboard and handled the lines – which is a stark contrast of how I normally must do it single-handed. Dan, Wally, Steve, Duke, and Paul
Such a great feeling. Rod, Russ, Duke, Jeff and Paul.
Everyone went back to the club to eat their dinner. Lawrence congratulated me with a bottle of Scotch like I had for him the year before. He wanted all the stories – particularly the storm. From experience, he knew how tired I felt and how I’d be a better raconteur after a little rest. I got a shower and met the fellow members in the club for dinner before passing out in my berth.
Everyone went back to the club to eat their dinner. Lawrence congratulated me with a bottle of Scotch like I had for him the year before. He wanted all the stories – particularly the storm. From experience, he knew how tired I felt and how I’d be a better raconteur after a little rest. I got a shower and met the fellow members in the club for dinner before passing out in my berth.
Such a great feeling. Rod, Russ, Duke, Jeff and Paul.
Everyone went back to the club to eat their dinner. Lawrence congratulated me with a bottle of Scotch like I had for him the year before. He wanted all the stories – particularly the storm. From experience, he knew how tired I felt and how I’d be a better raconteur after a little rest. I got a shower and met the fellow members in the club for dinner before passing out in my berth.
Everyone went back to the club to eat their dinner. Lawrence congratulated me with a bottle of Scotch like I had for him the year before. He wanted all the stories – particularly the storm. From experience, he knew how tired I felt and how I’d be a better raconteur after a little rest. I got a shower and met the fellow members in the club for dinner before passing out in my berth.
August 21, 2019 – Erie Yacht Club has all the members of GLSS dock at their guest dock right in front of the club. These are all member boats.
August 21, 2019 – Erie Yacht Club has all the members of GLSS dock at their guest dock right in front of the club. These are all member boats.
The view of the GLSS boats from the club. The last two boats to arrive – Quattour and mine were on the far dock. I didn’t mind. I was delighted to be there.
The view of the GLSS boats from the club. The last two boats to arrive – Quattour and mine were on the far dock. I didn’t mind. I was delighted to be there.
On the Wednesday after the challenge, there’s a luncheon in the club. All participants get up and give a speech about their experience or what they learned. Most mentioned Sunday night's storm. All new members get a GLSS burgee. Everyone who won an award got a flag. My yellow flag is for third place in my class. I would have rather had an afternoon talking to Ron Smallbone than to take his flag. But he’d had an exceedingly long sailing summer and after he lost his halyards within striking distance of the Welland Canal, I don’t blame him for heading back to Toronto. I’m proud of the flag and burgee anyway.
On the Wednesday after the challenge, there’s a luncheon in the club. All participants get up and give a speech about their experience or what they learned. Most mentioned Sunday night's storm. All new members get a GLSS burgee. Everyone who won an award got a flag. My yellow flag is for third place in my class. I would have rather had an afternoon talking to Ron Smallbone than to take his flag. But he’d had an exceedingly long sailing summer and after he lost his halyards within striking distance of the Welland Canal, I don’t blame him for heading back to Toronto. I’m proud of the flag and burgee anyway.
That evening, the Erie Yacht club held their regular Wednesday night races. It’s a unique course because the fleet can race completely inside Erie Harbor and the races are easily watched from shore. This is most of our fleet watching their fleet from the club's pavilion. It was great fun.
That evening, the Erie Yacht club held their regular Wednesday night races. It’s a unique course because the fleet can race completely inside Erie Harbor and the races are easily watched from shore. This is most of our fleet watching their fleet from the club's pavilion. It was great fun.
August 22, 2019 – Thursday morning brought favorable east winds for almost everyone to head home. I got up in the morning to see who was around.
August 22, 2019 – Thursday morning brought favorable east winds for almost everyone to head home. I got up in the morning to see who was around.
Almost everyone had gone.
Almost everyone had gone.
Russ from Shock & All was still here. His well-used mast had failed and he was making arrangements to get his boat back to Sandusky.
Russ from Shock & All was still here. His well-used mast had failed and he was making arrangements to get his boat back to Sandusky.
The only single-spreader Shock 35 in existence. This is Russ’ joke – not mine.
The only single-spreader Shock 35 in existence. This is Russ’ joke – not mine.
I wouldn’t have been ready to leave Thursday anyway because I had plans. I moved my boat about a half mile east to the Commodore Perry Yacht Club to go to a Great Lakes Cruising Club event that evening.
Later that afternoon, I was invited onboard Jim Ehrman’s boat for the Tall Ships Parade as they entered Erie Harbor. Jim is the Lake Erie Rear Commodore for the Great Lakes Cruising Club and his boat was chosen to be the media boat for the parade. I can’t believe how lucky I was to be invited.
Later that afternoon, I was invited onboard Jim Ehrman’s boat for the Tall Ships Parade as they entered Erie Harbor. Jim is the Lake Erie Rear Commodore for the Great Lakes Cruising Club and his boat was chosen to be the media boat for the parade. I can’t believe how lucky I was to be invited.
I wouldn’t have been ready to leave Thursday anyway because I had plans. I moved my boat about a half mile east to the Commodore Perry Yacht Club to go to a Great Lakes Cruising Club event that evening.
Later that afternoon, I was invited onboard Jim Ehrman’s boat for the Tall Ships Parade as they entered Erie Harbor. Jim is the Lake Erie Rear Commodore for the Great Lakes Cruising Club and his boat was chosen to be the media boat for the parade. I can’t believe how lucky I was to be invited.
Later that afternoon, I was invited onboard Jim Ehrman’s boat for the Tall Ships Parade as they entered Erie Harbor. Jim is the Lake Erie Rear Commodore for the Great Lakes Cruising Club and his boat was chosen to be the media boat for the parade. I can’t believe how lucky I was to be invited.
My view from Jim’s boat as we left Commodore Perry Yacht Club.
My view from Jim’s boat as we left Commodore Perry Yacht Club.
Being on the Media Boat was fantastic. We had better than front boat seats. We were told to take the photographers wherever they wanted to go, and we had total run of the harbor. While other boats were warned to stay out of the channel, we – along with the law enforcement boats – could go anywhere we wanted. Here’s the leader of the parade, the Niagara, entering the harbor.
Being on the Media Boat was fantastic. We had better than front boat seats. We were told to take the photographers wherever they wanted to go, and we had total run of the harbor. While other boats were warned to stay out of the channel, we – along with the law enforcement boats – could go anywhere we wanted. Here’s the leader of the parade, the Niagara, entering the harbor.
Niagara. Wow. Erie is where the Niagara was built and it’s now its home harbor.
Niagara. Wow. Erie is where the Niagara was built and it’s now its home harbor.
This is the angle the photographers wanted the most. Niagara under full sail with the Erie waterfront in the background. The mayor was waving from the foredeck.
This is the angle the photographers wanted the most. Niagara under full sail with the Erie waterfront in the background. The mayor was waving from the foredeck.
Fair Jeanne – Brockville, Ontario - There were 12 boats in the parade, and we got great shots of all of them.
Fair Jeanne – Brockville, Ontario - There were 12 boats in the parade, and we got great shots of all of them.
Picton Castle – Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Picton Castle – Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
The guy on the left was warned several times to leave the channel. At this point, the police has just told them they’ve been cited and they’ll get the citation by mail and they have 30 seconds to get out of the channel before their boat is impounded and they’re arrested. The security boats were not messing around. They waved pleasantly to us.
The guy on the left was warned several times to leave the channel. At this point, the police has just told them they’ve been cited and they’ll get the citation by mail and they have 30 seconds to get out of the channel before their boat is impounded and they’re arrested. The security boats were not messing around. They waved pleasantly to us.
Lettie G. Howard – New York City, NY
Lettie G. Howard – New York City, NY
They just kept coming.
They just kept coming.
Santa Maria – Huelva, Spain
Santa Maria – Huelva, Spain
Denis Sullivan – Milwaukee, WI
Denis Sullivan – Milwaukee, WI
Empire Sandy – Toronto, Ontario
Empire Sandy – Toronto, Ontario
Bluenose II – Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
Bluenose II – Lunenburg, Nova Scotia
We were treated to a pizza party and a great sunset for being a guide boat.
We were treated to a pizza party and a great sunset for being a guide boat.
This is Jim Ehrman’s boat that we were on for the parade.
This is Jim Ehrman’s boat that we were on for the parade.
I shared some of Lawrence’s Scotch onboard Jim's boat that evening while we watched the fireworks in Erie.
I shared some of Lawrence’s Scotch onboard Jim's boat that evening while we watched the fireworks in Erie.
August 23, 2019 – It was time to start heading home. I left Commodore Perry Yacht Club a little before sunrise.
August 23, 2019 – It was time to start heading home. I left Commodore Perry Yacht Club a little before sunrise.
As I sailed out of Erie Harbor, I again passed “R2,” the finish line for the LESC.
As I sailed out of Erie Harbor, I again passed “R2,” the finish line for the LESC.
I had an amazing day of sailing. As I’ve mentioned in other sailing posts, I’ve been to almost all the ports in Lake Erie. Today, I was going to pick up two more as I cruised back towards Cleveland.
I had an amazing day of sailing. As I’ve mentioned in other sailing posts, I’ve been to almost all the ports in Lake Erie. Today, I was going to pick up two more as I cruised back towards Cleveland.
First was Conneaut. This is the Conneaut light. I poked my bow in the harbor and decided to get on to Ashtabula.
First was Conneaut. This is the Conneaut light. I poked my bow in the harbor and decided to get on to Ashtabula.
As I was nearing Ashtabula, I was on an intercept for the bulk carrier Cuyahoga. I could have rushed and got in the harbor before him without getting in his way but I hailed him and told him that I’d drop my sails and let him pass.
As I was nearing Ashtabula, I was on an intercept for the bulk carrier Cuyahoga. I could have rushed and got in the harbor before him without getting in his way but I hailed him and told him that I’d drop my sails and let him pass.
This caused me to miss the 1500 bridge opening in Ashtabula. He seemed grateful that I hailed him to tell him that I would stay out of his way. But I would have been in well out of his way. It’s got to be tough on these guys trying to guess what everyone else is trying to do.
This caused me to miss the 1500 bridge opening in Ashtabula. He seemed grateful that I hailed him to tell him that I would stay out of his way. But I would have been in well out of his way. It’s got to be tough on these guys trying to guess what everyone else is trying to do.
The channel to get into Ashtabula is flanked on both sides by a bulk terminal. I saw coal and limestone and silos that I’d guess hold grain.
The channel to get into Ashtabula is flanked on both sides by a bulk terminal. I saw coal and limestone and silos that I’d guess hold grain.
Since I missed the 1500 bridge opening on the way in, I tied up at the short-term public docks to wait for the 1530 opening.
Since I missed the 1500 bridge opening on the way in, I tied up at the short-term public docks to wait for the 1530 opening.
I had a great early dinner in Ashtabula. It’s one of my favorite ports in Lake Erie and a great place to visit.
I had a great early dinner in Ashtabula. It’s one of my favorite ports in Lake Erie and a great place to visit.
I got through the bridge and tied up at the Ashtabula Yacht Club. I have a friend at AYC who also has an Ericson 30+. Jim and I get together for lunch occasionally to talk about our boats and I’ve stopped by and seen his boat. But we’ve never managed to make it aboard mine. He came down and we talked about the upgrades I’ve made in the past few years and plans we had for the future. As we were walking around my foredeck, I found that two of the bolts that hold my boom together had backed almost completely out. Jim helped me get my mainsail off so we could get my boom back together. It was a little unnerving after the week I’d been through. If that would have failed at the wrong time, it would have been a disaster.
I got through the bridge and tied up at the Ashtabula Yacht Club. I have a friend at AYC who also has an Ericson 30+. Jim and I get together for lunch occasionally to talk about our boats and I’ve stopped by and seen his boat. But we’ve never managed to make it aboard mine. He came down and we talked about the upgrades I’ve made in the past few years and plans we had for the future. As we were walking around my foredeck, I found that two of the bolts that hold my boom together had backed almost completely out. Jim helped me get my mainsail off so we could get my boom back together. It was a little unnerving after the week I’d been through. If that would have failed at the wrong time, it would have been a disaster.
August 24, 2019 – I woke up at 5 am with the intention of sailing all the way back to Cleveland so I could make it to Meredith’s birthday party that evening. While checking the forecast in my bunk, it was blowing 20-25 and there were 3-5 footers. I was still weary and did not fancy 10+ hours of that. I went back to sleep and considered staying in Ashtabula another day.
August 24, 2019 – I woke up at 5 am with the intention of sailing all the way back to Cleveland so I could make it to Meredith’s birthday party that evening. While checking the forecast in my bunk, it was blowing 20-25 and there were 3-5 footers. I was still weary and did not fancy 10+ hours of that. I went back to sleep and considered staying in Ashtabula another day.
I got up about 8:30 and had a pleasant morning with eggs and coffee. But the fishing boats were going out, so I decided to go ahead and cast off and head home. I might not do 10 hours of 3-5 footers but at least I could stop in Mentor – about halfway. Here’s the 0930 bridge opening.
I got up about 8:30 and had a pleasant morning with eggs and coffee. But the fishing boats were going out, so I decided to go ahead and cast off and head home. I might not do 10 hours of 3-5 footers but at least I could stop in Mentor – about halfway. Here’s the 0930 bridge opening.
Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea… As I left Ashtabula Harbor, I nestled right under a huge dark cloud. Great. It followed me for hours. With it, it brought steady 3-5 foot waves and 25 knot winds – directly from behind me. It turned out to be a gentle giant.
I did the math and if I went all the way through, I might be able to get to Meredith’s party before everyone left.
I did the math and if I went all the way through, I might be able to get to Meredith’s party before everyone left.
Maybe this wasn’t such a good idea… As I left Ashtabula Harbor, I nestled right under a huge dark cloud. Great. It followed me for hours. With it, it brought steady 3-5 foot waves and 25 knot winds – directly from behind me. It turned out to be a gentle giant.
I did the math and if I went all the way through, I might be able to get to Meredith’s party before everyone left.
I did the math and if I went all the way through, I might be able to get to Meredith’s party before everyone left.
So, I decided to skip Mentor and Fairport and sail all the way to Cleveland. Since I was still recovering from the LESC, I had no intention of wrestling with the main. I sailed under headsail alone all day but the conditions, albeit bumpy, made for some fast sailing. I made it in a little more than 9 hours.
So, I decided to skip Mentor and Fairport and sail all the way to Cleveland. Since I was still recovering from the LESC, I had no intention of wrestling with the main. I sailed under headsail alone all day but the conditions, albeit bumpy, made for some fast sailing. I made it in a little more than 9 hours.
Eastlake power plant through my shrouds and Cleveland popping up in the distance – about 18-20 miles.
Eastlake power plant through my shrouds and Cleveland popping up in the distance – about 18-20 miles.
It was another day of downwind gybing. I gybed uncounted times – well into the 40’s. But since it was just the often furled genoa, it wasn’t too bad.
It was another day of downwind gybing. I gybed uncounted times – well into the 40’s. But since it was just the often furled genoa, it wasn’t too bad.
I raced a random boat to the Cleveland breakwater east light. It was good to get behind the breakwall and have the water flatten a little bit so I could ready the boat to dock in the 20+ knot winds.
I raced a random boat to the Cleveland breakwater east light. It was good to get behind the breakwall and have the water flatten a little bit so I could ready the boat to dock in the 20+ knot winds.
Cleveland: Rock Hall, Great Lakes Science Center, William G. Mather, Browns Stadium, etc… Pretty good place to call home.
Cleveland: Rock Hall, Great Lakes Science Center, William G. Mather, Browns Stadium, etc… Pretty good place to call home.
As I was passing through the river channel I had a pretty good shot of two sailboats. One turned out to be one of my dockmates Huw, who got in 5 minutes after I did. The water level is so high that the breakwall is almost covered. This would be very dangerous to enter if you were unfamiliar with it. To me, it’s home.
As I was passing through the river channel I had a pretty good shot of two sailboats. One turned out to be one of my dockmates Huw, who got in 5 minutes after I did. The water level is so high that the breakwall is almost covered. This would be very dangerous to enter if you were unfamiliar with it. To me, it’s home.
Looking up the Cuyahoga River with the old Coast Guard station and Wendy Park on the right. I can see two of my clients in this picture.
Looking up the Cuyahoga River with the old Coast Guard station and Wendy Park on the right. I can see two of my clients in this picture.
Back home. I had the celebratory beer while I tidied and got everything buttoned up and I just made it to Meredith’s party. I didn’t expect them to be surprised because I had my satellite tracker on all day. They would have known I was on my way. Apparently, I had been gone so long, they stopped watching. But they gave me quite a welcome when I walked in and surprised them. It was good to be home.
Back home. I had the celebratory beer while I tidied and got everything buttoned up and I just made it to Meredith’s party. I didn’t expect them to be surprised because I had my satellite tracker on all day. They would have known I was on my way. Apparently, I had been gone so long, they stopped watching. But they gave me quite a welcome when I walked in and surprised them. It was good to be home.
This is my satellite track for the LESC with highlights. People have asked me about the zigzags near Buffalo. Since a sailboat can’t sail directly into the wind, one must tack into the wind, going back and forth going as close to the wind as possible. You can see the angle change on that last tack (before I took an unplanned nap). That’s because the angle of the wind was changing, and I was able to go a little better in the direction I actually wanted to go. When I woke up, the wind was favorable to go directly to Erie.
This is my satellite track for the LESC with highlights. People have asked me about the zigzags near Buffalo. Since a sailboat can’t sail directly into the wind, one must tack into the wind, going back and forth going as close to the wind as possible. You can see the angle change on that last tack (before I took an unplanned nap). That’s because the angle of the wind was changing, and I was able to go a little better in the direction I actually wanted to go. When I woke up, the wind was favorable to go directly to Erie.
After combining my LESC track with my previous tracks, I’m quite pleased with how well I’ve covered Lake Erie. I’ll get to Mentor and Fairport in the next couple weeks and I’ll have visited all 32 Lake Erie ports that I’ve been wanting to visit. I think that qualifies me to be called a "Lake Erie Sailor."
Thanks for reading this. I hope you enjoyed it.
Thanks for reading this. I hope you enjoyed it.
After combining my LESC track with my previous tracks, I’m quite pleased with how well I’ve covered Lake Erie. I’ll get to Mentor and Fairport in the next couple weeks and I’ll have visited all 32 Lake Erie ports that I’ve been wanting to visit. I think that qualifies me to be called a "Lake Erie Sailor."
Thanks for reading this. I hope you enjoyed it.
Thanks for reading this. I hope you enjoyed it.