2004-2005
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Ocean Planet Vendée Globe Update:
Monday, February 7, 2005
Position 03 11N, 30 24W, @ 03:05 UT
Back in the Northern Hemisphere
Making a Dream Come True
“I would like to take this chance to invite other sponsors to come aboard with you for your epic finish and proud return to the USA….I saw in you the dream to overcome the odds. Now you have done it, as have we….I’d be proud to be a part of your next endeavor.”
— JB Currell, MAS Epoxies Ocean Planet Supporter Febuary 6, 2005
What do Ocean Planet’s hull, battens, mast, and boom all have in common?
They are all built using products from MAS Epoxies. MAS Epoxies is the VERY FIRST Official Supplier Sponsor that Ocean Planet had, and we have a special relationship having gone through so much over the last few years. Below is a letter from JB Currell of MAS, sent to me just before we crossed the equator:
“Bruce,
By now you have crossed the equator for the fourth time on Ocean Planet, against all odds. I would like take this chance to invite other sponsors to come aboard with you for your epic finish and proud return to the USA. Let me say why I think they should:
Fifteen years ago Tony Delima and I ventured into the biggest challenge of our careers. We wanted to bring to the marine world new technology in epoxy resin systems. Systems like the ones used on OP. We found Technology which would enable engineers to design freestanding carbon masts,which wouldn’t break in the Southern Ocean. Or battens to mach the sail plan.Or a wood and carbon hull which would be light weight and strong.
But the reality of our quest was in the beginning much simpler. To create resins which reduced contact dermatitis, eliminate “Amine Blush”, and simplify using epoxy in boat shops everywhere. This we achieved over the last 15 years, against a lot of odds with limited resources. Like you.
When you and I spoke about your dream 5 years ago (yes, it’s been that long!), I was excited about helping you. I saw in you the Dream to overcome the odds. Now you have done it, as have we. When you thought it was the end and there was no place else to go for money, your supporters came through. You have demonstrated a tenacity that I am proud of(Tenacious; adj. holding fast; retentive; stubborn -te.na’ci.ty–Webster’s version, or as I like to say tough as hell). Like the Epoxy, the boat,and the Skipper.
This is what the American Dream is about. Creating something new and cutting edge, and succeeding with it against the odds. Yes its new, it’s different, but people are going to see freestanding masts in a different light, as well as wood composite hulls. We all proved it can be done. You trusted us to make products that worked and then you tested them in the harshest conditions. You, along with all your suppliers passed the test. Thanks for taking us with you and trusting in us and I’d be proud to be part of your next endeavor.
You have represented us well, and it is time for others to take advantage of the investment that you and your supporters have made, in a great American Dream.
I invite those believe in America Dreams to join us now, by contacting your representative Geoff Lamdin, at geoff@lamdin.net. We would be delighted to have them join us! —– JB Currell (jb@masepoxies.com).”
Wow, thanks JB! It certainly is the time for other sponsor to join us! Even with all the donations, loans and help from our supplier sponsors like you, we barely made the start. But we proved that it could be done, and I am infinitely proud to represent all of our supporters who share in this dream.
And it’s never too late to support Ocean Planet… The raffle at http://www.candlepowerforums.com/ubbthreads/showflat.php?Cat=&Number=855760&page=0&view=collapsed&sb=5&o=186&fpart=1 to benefit Ocean Planet on has been extended to February 11th!
Btw, Ocean Planet crossed the equator and back into the Northern Hemisphere on Saturday evening at 2330 UT.
Bruce Schwab, Skipper
USA 05/Ocean Planet