"Perhaps the biggest changes are:
The elimination of mandatory escort boats
Entry Fee covers the cost of increased safety boats and the Makapuu Challenge race on 05/10/09
Makapuu Challenge Race 05/10/09
A halfway point in the Channel Race that all paddlers will need to pass - a waypoint will be given and GPS will be required - Two Official Boats will mark the waypoint.
Channel Race Finish returns to Koko Marina inside the marina "
http://www.surfski.info/content/view/975/147/
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Submitted by Taylor808 on Wed, 03/18/2009 - 11:00pm
Two things: I like the Koko Marina finish, for it keeps the race consistant with the course that set the current record. So even before when they shortened the race to Town Center, the new state of the art $4000 15 pound 21 ft.+ long boats still no can come close to the record set by one $500 water logged 35 lb. 19 ft. short boat with 2 gallons sea water inside. In fact, they had hard time lifting the boat after the race because the buggah was leaking, leaking. I also like the gps requirement, but because an escort boat was required, you never have to leash yourself or wear one life jacket. So now what? They going make you wear or carry life jacket too? Bummers!
ps: I just went read the safety requirements and they going reduce the entry fee $200 if you get your own escort boat. But they never say anything about no need all that extra safety equipment if you do get your own escort? If you get personal escort, then an exemption from all that safety equipment should be allowed. Carrying all that safety equipment will only get in the way and becomes a hinderance.
#1 Thu, 03/19/2009 - 4:08am
Wearing an inflatable PFD and a leash are barely noticeable...
Having to carry things you don't need sucks... till that 1 time you need them
#2 Thu, 03/19/2009 - 4:30am