With about 25 minutes to go until the start sequence at the start of the Daytona - Fernandina leg of the Tybee 500 last week, I saw an elderly man making his way past the catamarans in the narrow beach with a three wheeled walker. Normally, I wouldn't have given him too much consideration as I was deep into my preparations for the leg. However, this guy attracted my attention because he was walking with purpose and grinning from ear to ear as he was putting forth a pretty serious effort to navigate the sand, boats, and other obstacles. He was obviously not an average beach spectator. He approached me and immediately knocked me off-center when he said "I expect you guys will have a good day today - I've heard about your light air ability". Perplexed, I said "thank you very much - I hope we do". He then added "Oh, and by the way, please don't forget a paddle today" after which he turned and made his way down the beach. Because we had suffered through a painful beach launch the day before where we HAD forgotten a paddle, I too was then grinning ear to ear as I watched him work his way down the row of boats...It TOTALLY made my day.

After making some inquiries, I discovered he was someone of whom I had heard of - though I admit I don't know much about him. His name is Goulden Reid (I'm really guessing at the spelling) and has been a catsailor about as long as there have been fiberglass cats. I'm sure there are plenty of stories out there about him - I would like to hear them if you care to share.

Gaulden Reed. Legend. Has a regatta named after him. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/wink.gif" alt="" />

Wow! it's like a spirit, a voice of tremendous experience speaking to you. You never know....

It's strange how significantly that moment sticks in my brain - Although I had no idea how at the time, I immediately had no doubt that I was in the presence of greatness.

I met Hulk Hogan at the mall once and felt the same way. j.k. <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/tongue.gif" alt="" />

It is cool that you knew when you saw him that he was important. Sompe people just have a presence!

Luke!!!! Let go and feel the Force! <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif" alt="" />

I only remember seeing him ready to descend the cement stairs to the beach with a rickety little walker and thought about cutting in front of him so I could break his fall.

That guy may look frail but he definitely has a great spirit.

spirit?!?!?! That guy was full of piss and vinager! He had us laughing our butts off before the start. Had no idea who he was, but he was definately there with a purpose. I distinctly remember the conversation I had with him, although it had nothing to do with sailing...
just hope he enjoyed his time as much as we did on the beach.
Chris
www.acceleratedchaos.com