Perspective Around Alone sailor Paul Thackaberry's entry was rejected by Around Alone race officials. There were 2 reasons: one, Thackaberry refused to make a 2,000 mile qualifying sail, and he wanted to be sponsored by cigarette maker Kool.
Around Alone official Dan Mconnel put it this way: "He refused to do it any other way, so we rejected him. He didn't withdraw."
Perhaps some of this incident stems from personality conflicts between Thackaberry and race organizers. Still, Thackaberry refused to comply with two importnat rules. He didn't do the qualifying sail. Thackaberry felt he should be exempt from this as he had sailed the same boat in the 90-91 race. But, race organizers felt he had modified it enough that he should sail the qualifier. Second, the race has decided not to accept tobacco advertising. Naming a boat Kool Lights is an obvious violation of this.
As the time to the race start dwindles, Neal Petersen reports good news about his race preperations. Neal and no barriers.com have passed the safety scrutineering. Cray Valley also passed. The prize for being the first boat through this a carriage ride.
Neal's new sails have arrived from North Sails South Africa. His mainsail carries the logo of Phillips Industrial Services one of his sponsors. He has added an asymetrical spinnaker for better offwind speed.
Please check back as Torresen Sailing Site will be reporting from Charleston SC all week as the fleet ramps up for the Around Alone Start.