Found this on the NOR for the Great Texas Race :

"Warning: This race is to be conducted on small craft on the open ocean. Severe weather, accidents or equipment failure could lead to potentially dangerous or lethal situations especially along remote ocean areas such as those encountered on this race. In addition, no support boats will be provided to aid sailors in need of help. Therefore, sailors must understand the significant risks associated with the race and only participate if they accept these risks. Safety equipment including VHF, GPS, flashlight, cell phone and safety lines will be required to participate in the event."

Question : How do the organisers of races such as this manage to convince the Authorities such as the Coast Guard etc to allow them to hold such an event ?
I`ve always thought of the USA as a country where all activities are fairly regulated, whereas we would never be able to hold an event of this nature in South Africa, as the NSRI (CG to you guys) would insist on at least one rescue craft per 10 boats to follow the entire route, not negotiable. This makes it logistically a nightmare. It was attempted a few years ago, a race from Durban to Cape Town, but never really worked out as sponsors pulled out last minute, and the organisers tried to link it to a bicycle race along the coast. On the no-wind days they were either towed across the sea by rescue craft or trailered from point to point to make strict landing times as set out by the organisers in order to meet with television schedules. Ended up being a complete sham, and was abandoned half-way. Some of the competitors went on unassisted to Cape Town, but the Government is now stepping up regulations regarding day-sailing off the beach, making it near impossible to leave the beach without more safety gear than a cat can carry.

So how do you guys get it right ??

Steve