To cross the Pacific Ocean in 2027 by participating in The Singlehanded Transpacific Yacht Race (SHTP)San Francisco to Hawaii
To participate in the Pacific Puddle Jump Rally by 2028 Solo California to Polynesia
The SHTP
The Singlehanded Transpacific Yacht Race (SHTP) is a biennial yacht race where sailors cross the Pacific Ocean alone, nonstop, and unassisted. Organized by the Singlehanded Sailing Society, the 2,120-nautical-mile course starts in San Francisco Bay and finishes in Hanalei Bay, on the Hawaiian island of Kauai. Entrants must sail the race alone, non-stop, and without any outside physical assistance. It is considered one of the West Coast's most challenging yacht racing traditions, demanding extreme commitment, self-sufficiency, and physical endurance. The race is held during odd-numbered years.
Official Singlehanded Transpacific site sfbaysss.org/shtp2025/
The PPJ
The Pacific Puddle Jump is a non-competitive, annual transoceanic sailing rally for cruising sailors traveling from the west coast of the Americas to French Polynesia. The term, originally coined by Latitude 38 magazine in 1997, describes the 3,000 to 4,000 nautical-mile journey across the Pacific Ocean. There is no set start or finish date, but most sailors depart between late February and early June to take advantage of favorable weather conditions. They time their trip to arrive in French Polynesia after the South Pacific's cyclone season, which runs from November to April. Common starting points include ports in California, Mexico (especially Banderas Bay), and Panama. It is an international event that fosters a community of long-distance sailors who share adventures and advice. Organizers provide fleet tracking and access to services and discounts for participants. As of 2026, the organization of the Pacific Puddle Jump is being managed by Sail Tahiti, taking over from its original founder, former Latitude 38 editor Andy Turpin.
Official Pacific Puddle Jump link www.PacificPuddleJump.com
On Course to Cross the Pacific: Training, Planning, Dreaming
A journey like this takes careful planning and preparation. With no sailing experience, this is an extremely difficult task but one I am determined to accomplish. Building the Foundation: Sailing Certifications and Open-Water Experience. In the beginning of June 2025, I joined a sailing school and club in Redwood City, California. I have been completing ASA certification classes and have spent numerous hours each week on the San Francisco Bay learning everything possible about sailing. I will continue to learn and develop skills up until the day of my departure so that I am well prepared for this incredible journey.
The Search for Secunda Vita: Finding a Seaworthy Vessel on a Spartan Budget
For my solo Pacific crossing, I'm seeking a sailboat around 33-37 feet that prioritizes ease of handling and self-sufficiency alongside safety, generous storage, and seaworthiness. While modern navigation and a comfortable living space are important, the ideal boat must be inherently stable and manageable for a single person, with a robust design and high capsize resistance to ensure a safe and reliable solo voyage. While my budget is limited, my commitment to finding a safe and capable boat for this journey is unwavering.
As I continue preparing for this incredible journey, the next step is securing the right sailboat and outfitting it for the rigors of the Pacific. With my goal of setting sail for the Singlehanded Transpacific in 2027 and the Pacific Puddle Jump rally in 2028, time is of the essence. Reaching that starting line, and ultimately crossing the ocean, depends on the support I receive. Every contribution, regardless of size, will make a tangible difference, bringing me closer to realizing this dream. This isn't just about my personal adventure; it's about inspiring others to chase their own goals, and your support will be instrumental in making that inspiration a reality.
Embark on this journey with me, as I prepare to test my limits, embrace the unknown, and live life to the fullest after receiving a second chance through a life-saving transplant. Stay tuned for continuous updates on my progress as the boat is prepped and readied for the open ocean.
