Bob
Johnston
Ragtime
J/92
#18
Alameda, CA

Whole family learned to sail
in El Toros at Beery's (Aquatic Park) in 1969 - the semis on I-80 taught
us about velocity headers. Racing classes on Lake Merritt (more
Toro's - those were the Dan Herb days). Jr. Program at Island Y.C.
(Wondelleck, et al). First overnight ocean race when I was 13 on
Heckman's "Quetzal" - nearly crossed between a tug and its tow
in the middle of the night - a lifelong lesson.
I always had a boat on a trailer somewhere but didn't sail much through
college and early career. Married to Connie 22 years, four kids
(Jessie, Timothy, Matthew, Carrie). Tim's been to Stockton/RYC camp
three times but now has a basketball jones - other kids aren't into sailing
much, which is okay.
Never been to Hawaii - this is the way to arrive for my first visit.
Gear/food: Two Garmin GPS's - One mounted, one handheld. Not
sure about a laptop yet but will probably go that route for the weatherfax.
Autopilots are a Raymarine 4000+ w/6001 computer/gyro; spare 4000+ ram
and 2000+ TP as backups, but I intend to drive a lot. Will have
both a CARD and AIS (see aforementioned tug/tow comment). Food isn't
worked out yet but as much as possible I'll take what we eat at home.
I also like to snack so lots of trail mix, power bars, etc.
Lest there be any doubt, I plan to compete. My boat prep has been
focused in that direction.
I've belonged to a couple of yacht clubs over the years but the SSS is
a special group. I would not have considered doing this race had
I not received timely encouragement, technical help and the friendship
offered by many in the society.
"Special thanks to Connie
for putting up with all of this and bearing with my frequent absenses
so I could get boat projects done."
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