Hey Ed -



I enjoy your posts - especially your tips for beginning skippers.



Regarding your question about the sharing of parts, support, etc. at the Worrell, I can unequivocally say that everyone at that event has shared or borrowed SOMETHING. I've seen great attitudes from every team for the three years I have had the priviledge of attending. From parts to sails to tools to pushers/catchers to beer. My first year was with a low budget team, and I got a TON of advice, help, and alcohol from the managers of other teams. My past two years have been with a high-end team, and your "pat-it-forward" attitude was our official written team policy. Our parts trailer was wide open every day and I frequently saw my sailors and team members helping other teams.



Boat selection and event politics aside, the Worrell is a great example of a fleet that, after two weeks of hell, is hoping that every other team gets to the finish line too. Sailors and ground crews alike! Even if we have to carry each other!



John