When It Rains, It Pours

As this post is being uploaded to our servers, Brian VanderZanden on the Hobie 33 TurboCamper has crossed the finish line of the Singlehanded TransPac and is probably enjoying his end-of-race drink of choice — a piña colada — the second boat to do so. Presumably due to the grey skies that have plagued the solar-powered entries in the fleet, VanderZanden has been relatively quiet in regards to updates, but yesterday reported, "As this is most likely going to be my last night at sea, I’m working hard on resting now while there’s the opportunity. It’s pretty difficult actually, as the anticipation of land is so great."

Just 60 miles behind Brian and threatening a sunset finish is multiple Pacific Cup vet Jim Quanci on his Cal 40 Green Buffalo. In stark contrast to Brian’s infrequent reports, Jim has been communicating daily (or more) throughout the race. Some of his posts describe current conditions, some are more educational, such as last night’s report.

"It’s hard at times to judge how much provisions one needs on a race to Hawaii. My wife and I have had numerous debates on how much toilet paper, paper towels, wet wipes, and more to bring per person and for the boat. Well, now being singlehanded I know. A few usage stats:

• One roll of toilet paper. I have a bit left on the first roll. It’ll make it to tomorrow. I suspect my low intake had resulted in low outflows – so low toilet paper usage.
• One roll of paper towels. I have been real careful preventing it from falling on the floor and becoming a soggy lump.
• 60 pints of water. All used for drinking. So, of the 20 gallons the race requires you bring, I’ll have used less then 8 (of course if I dropped my mast and took 3 weeks, I would need every drop of the 20 gallons)."

The fleet has begun to feel the effects of former hurricanes Daniel and Emilia. Though the projected path of the storms didn’t come near the course, sloppy seas and increased wind speeds will create challenges for skippers as they make their final approach to the islands. A third system — Tropical Storm Fabio — spinning up off Mexico is predicted to roll up closer to Baja, so even the back of the pack should be spared too many ill effects. 

But they won’t have to suffer for too long. If projections hold true, 17 of the 23 entries will have finished by Sunday. Keep track of their progress on the race’s tracking page.