Jeff Lebesch
Hecla
Hammerhead 54 Trimaran
(Chris White Design)

PCR: 3
Homeport: Steamboat Springs, CO
Sail: #1554

Culebra

 I have been sailing since completing a number of classes at OCSC in Berkeley in 2000. Most of my miles have been on multihulls, from an F-31 Ñ including single-handed trips to Ketchikan, AK and the Bahamas Ñ to regular charter condomaran excursions, and since 2007 the svelte and capable Hammerhead 54 Hecla. This is the second go at the SHTP for Hecla and me. Preparations for this one have been fairly simple, since all the big improvements such as new sails and new electrical systems were completed prior to the TransPac in 2008. I am taking this event more seriously this year. Gone are the bread baker, two spare anchors, two inflatable kayaks and a dinghy and outboard, gas generator, sleeping and dining accommodations for 5, etc., too numerous to continue. I have a better understanding of the mental and physical stresses I will endure and know where I can push myself more, and very importantly where I cannot.I love solo ocean sailing: the feeling of getting into the groove with the boat, the necessary total command of boat control, navigation, communication, and personal sustenance, free of distractions and hungry for the reward of safe passage completion.Special thanks to my sweetheart Zia who has encouraged me to do this event again, saying "I never see you so engaged and full of life as when you are sailing."

Culebra
Navigation:
2x Garmin chartplotter, Garmin handheld
Steering: NKE hydraulic autopilot primary, loads of spares
Communications: Iridium 9505a sat phone voice/data, SSB voice only
Weather info: GRIB files via sat-phone, laptop computer
Other safety electronics: 2x AIS, 2x EPIRB, PLB, SeaMe radar detector and target enhancer, Garmin network radar, coursekeeping alarms, battery monitor alarm, sleep alarms
Food: Chocolate, ginger cookies, coffee, soups, rice, rye bread, yogurt, fresh fruits and veggies for at least a little while, grilled chicken, canned tuna, and the occasional Fat Tire.