It is a nice day here so I'm giong to the boat

[irwinsailor]

We are hanging around the boat today. We were there yesterday sitting in the cockpit watching the ice fishermen fishing 100 feet away. A strange feeling to say the least. This is one of the reasons that I bubble the boat, we get some more use out of it than if it were on the hard.

[irwinsailor]

It was a very good thing that we went to the boat today! I was attaching a outboard storage bracket on the boat and I heard the ice crack and a yell for help. I young man went through 75' from the boat. I gave my wife the phone and had her call 911. I threw him the horseshoe float and started launching the deflated inflatable. Two other fishermen came with a long timber and were able to get him out. The police and fire department were there and helped him into the ambulance. I would say that he was in for about 5 minutes. The panic in his eyes were something to see. The panic in my eyes about not knowing if I could get to him in time i'm sure was something to see. My legs shook for at least 15 minutes after he was safe. What a way to spend a mild sunday afternoon.

[Greg B]

Good Job Gunner I'm sure the whole board is proud of you. Glad you could be there.

[irwinsailor]

Thanks Greg. The Lord was looking out for him. And how did that life ring land so close? I can't aim!

[CSY Man]

The Lord was looking out for him.

If so, Why did the Lord let him fall in at all...?...

Aye, Mr. Irwinsailor, the Lord may not be there the next time.
Thread carefully instead, just in case the Lord is busy rescuing somebody else.

CSY Man..Carbon based lifeform evolved from the apes....

[Trecksail]

Wondering where your boat is bubbled at? Didn't notice any boats out. I definately wouldn't mind trying that myself. Has any ice gotten near your hull?

Joe

[irwinsailor]

The boat is on Lake Macatawa in Holland Michigan, This is the second time that I bubbled the boat and I have had no problems. There is a bubbler on each side of the boat and that is enough to keep it clear.

[Jon D]

Gunner

Back when we had the 36 in Chicago -- Holland and Saugatuck were two of our favorite long weekend destinations. Many a good time were had in those two towns.

Also could I tell you Tri-State race stories....Chicago - St Joe, St Joe - Michigan City, Michigan City - Chicago... Labor Day weekend.

[irwinsailor]

Go ahead Jon, I'm sure many of us would like to hear your stories!

[Jon D]

Good stories can only be told live

Generally with a good drink in hand and one or two already imbibbed.

So when you make it east let me know -- we can find a spot and let the stories / yarns begin.

[witchcraft]

Thank goodness your toss was good and that you were there that day. Exciting Sunday afternoon all right, not at all what you expected I imagine.
Since the dreadfully cold weather moderated here we are no longer experiencing a frozen in stern. What a relief, boat feels much better floating free. Seems like a better bubble arrangement will be needed for next season. I surely do look forward to spring and sailing.
Cheers
Witchcraft

[irwinsailor]

I'm glad we were there for him. I know that we helped save his life.