I wanted to get anyone's thoughts on this aspect of the Atlantic 1000. Although this is obviously TWO distinct races, I was wondering how the organizers deal with the fact that of the two boats doing the FULL 1000, one of them, which happens to be the leader, Team Tybee, has removed Tybee 500 skipper Steve Lohmayer and replaced him with Brian Lambert, surely a big name in the Worrell 1000 (see Team Alexanders-by-the-Bay). Meanwhile, Semp-Toshiba appears to be continuing on with the SAME SKIPPER AND CREW as the first half of the race. Normally, a penalty would be given for switching of crew - I can't remember if a skipper switch is even allowed... perhaps so. At the least, I think SOME penalty should occur when looking at the WHOLE Atlantic 1000 scenerio. I see this as a great advantage to have a fresh skipper not to mention one with tremendous experience in some of the most challenging conditions in the history of the Worrell.

IF given a time penalty, this would put Semp-Toshiba and Tybee almost neck and neck, making for more exciting racing. In my view, I think it's pretty fair and even handed as well. I wonder if Semp-Toshiba complained about this change? While it might be fine if judging JUST the Outer Banks 500, in my opinion, the results of the Atlantic 1000 should REFLECT this change.

Kelly