Wednesday, August 13, 2008

In the Groove Again

Latest Position: 01.17N, 170.47E 0313UTC 2013PDT 14 August 08

(80 miles from the equator)

I'm getting in the groove much quicker on this leg. It helps to have some wind to keep me moving. I've been busy interviewing with different people. I think there will be an article in the LA Times tomorrow in the Sports section that is if they can squeeze me in between the Olympic stories. Pete Thomas has been great to work with.

I had a good night's sleep last night because the wind had died down some. The Clearpoint Weather forecast shows light wind to nothing all around me but I have had a steady 11 knots most of the day and so am moving along pretty well. There haven't been any squalls today but I am ready with my buckets to catch some fresh drinking water. I did see a fishing boat today. I wasn't able to speak to them so I don't know where they were going but it was good to see the AIS radar was still working. Speaking of equipment, my solar panels are putting out more power than the batteries can take. Thanks to Mike Smith and Tom Brown in North Carolina for putting that right. Now as I check my email and talk on the SSB radio, I hope that it stays that way. The sun has been high and hot.

I have been eating well. The day I left, Carla came out to see me off with her grandparents. Her grandmother gave me a basket of drinking coconuts and spongy coconuts and some dried fruit roll that the ancient Marshallese mariners used to take on board their long passages. The drinking coconuts are excellent and have helped my stomach ache. Other than that I have been eating a lot of fruit and some Goober Grape peanut butter and jelly that I scored at the market in Majuro.

Moana is on a different tack from me headed straight for the Solomon Islands. They have no wind and a lot of fuel and so have been motor sailing all day. I am headed straight for the equator and will tack gradually westward once I am 'safely' in the southern hemisphere. There are areas of convection all around me but so far I have only seen one lightning strike and that was pretty far away.

I have been thinking about what I will do when I cross the equator. Chris from Moana is thinking about swimming across. It is so hot here I would really like to jump in but don't worry, I won't. The tradition says that you should offer something to King Neptune who is the Roman version of the Greek god of the sea, Poseidon. Tune in tomorrow to hear what I decided! I should pass early in my morning.

Cheers,

Zac

Note from Mom:

Two things:

Here is a link to a fantastic photo essay of Zac's week in the Marshalls by photographer Jen Edney:

http://www.vimeo.com/1518420

She also has a great essay on the prearation stage of Zac's trip at:

http://www.vimeo.com/1232030?pg=embed&sec=1232030

Also, the Photo Gallery is up and working on the web site. We will be adding more photos now that a format has been chosen and uploaded to the site. Any comments you have on how they are working would be appreciated.

Good Night!








http://www.vimeo.com/1518420

60 Comments:

Blogger Unknown said...

IF I RIDE THE MORNING WINDS TO THE FARTHEST OCEANS, EVEN THERE YOUR HAND WILL GUIDE ME, YOUR STRENGTH WILL SUPPORT ME.

PSALMS 139:9-10

THINKING OF YOU ZAC, BLESSINGS

SERVANT OF THE LORD

August 13, 2008 at 11:11 PM  
Blogger Anita said...

Zac
Just watched the awesome video...thanks for having it posted! It's great to see where you have been.

Sending along well wishes and prayers, have a wonderful day.

God Speed!
Anita
Waterloo, NY
USA

August 14, 2008 at 2:04 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac.
Great pics from tha Marshalls. The hp photo gallery looks great.

BTW to all the Zac Pac's is it possible tha Google Earth lost St. Helena?? in Search I get a location but can't see the island. Maybe somebody can help or did the french sunk it after Napoleon died LOL?
Axel

August 14, 2008 at 4:27 AM  
Blogger Peter said...

Hi Zac, Well I agree there should be no swimming, tethered or not, while crossing the equator, or any other time while underway, for that matter.
How about a sea water shower in the early hours during your crossing the equator? Just a big bucket of sea water spilled radidly on you. You can do it right in the cockpit, and as an added bonus, plug up the scuppers with rags and put a few buckets into the cockpit for a semi salt water bath. Don't forget to remove the rags when you are done.
I used to flood the cockpit of my 41' Morgan when it would get stinking hot with no wind. I just would enjoy the cooler water on my feet.
Enjoy, and let us know what you decide.

Peter Mercer

August 14, 2008 at 4:33 AM  
Blogger Willyboy said...

Go Zac... About to go "down under"! Very cool. I hope you've had chances to study the night sky in the north so you can not the differences down south - of course if you've been watching since MDR then you'll have already noticed many changes.

How is the makwon - that roll the Marshallese mariners lived on? You said you tried it, just wondering what it's like.

Cheers!

willy
milford, ohio

August 14, 2008 at 5:00 AM  
Blogger Willyboy said...

Whoa... Just watched the work from Jen - very nice job capturing the span of your stay in Majuro...

August 14, 2008 at 5:05 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thanks for the post Zac and reassurance you will Not be jumping
overboard at the Equator. In the absence of an Alcohol offering, perhaps one could oh, pee overboard?
Do a little dance and be grateful you have this blessed opportunity.
So, protein and sugar (my fav combo)
Goober PB, man, out there alone, no one looking, yeah, you just grab a spoon and dig in. You're probably drinking out of the milk carton too... living large on the Intrepid!
Did you ever replace your Ipod?
and or get it working again? Do you have music onboard?
Anyway, stay alert, and it's down right scary to hear your weather reports are as inaccurate as those on shore! Guess one has to check several sources and guess!
Looking forward to your next post!
Until then we'll be sailing south with you.
Kate

August 14, 2008 at 6:02 AM  
Blogger Vasyl Pawlowsky said...

Great to see you are back in the Groove Zac!

I have enjoyed reading your posts and those by your Mom, when you haven't been able to post.

I just got an e-mail from a good friend who is a photographer in Australia... He mentioned that he was leaving for Darwin today, and then off to Arnhem Land in the Northern Territory but I told him the he should try to get the paper he works for to send him back to Darwin.. when you are due there...

How long do expect it to take you? Because maybe he can catch you after the four weeks he is spending there following some Arts Orchestra. He says he is looking forward to it, but I think if I can be in Darwin at the same time... He would try!

May your sails be filled with just the amount of wind you need.

God Bless!

Vasyl
Kyiv, Ukraine

August 14, 2008 at 6:24 AM  
Blogger Glen said...

Hi Everyone

Hey ZAC…

Your posted it was excellent with the link that your mom added.
You look very, VERY well in all your interview and pictures in the Marshals Is.

When you arrive to the Ecuador line do something that you always remainder. Something crazy and safer at a time. Of course, after offer something to the King’s…

Well boy, I think it’s not necessarily to say, but I said, it’s nice to read from you again after a week in Majuro…

I steel make a map of your trajectory at sea, day by day with your comment and the bloggers to…

Nice girl Carla !!! Very cute… huummm….

That is all for today, See you tomorrow, and tell us what are you DO when crossing the Ecuador line…

Good wind.
Sail safe.
Be good.
Force be with You..
Glen

August 14, 2008 at 7:05 AM  
Blogger Gleaming Waters said...

Awesome Zac! The pictures, video and your posts are so professional, but personal. Thank you, dearheart; we are loving this adventure right along with you.
God bless you and your family.
Love,
Tamara

August 14, 2008 at 7:10 AM  
Blogger utbronco said...

The Photo Essays were outstanding. The music was fantastic on both, but the Youth to Youth Choir was awesome. It still amazes me Zac that as a 16 year old boy/man you have taken on such a challenging objective. I am learning more every day how well suited you are for this giant undertaking and that this goal is so achievable with you at the helm!!! Take care and God speed!!!

August 14, 2008 at 7:19 AM  
Blogger Omom said...

Hi Zac!
Just read the article in the LA Times today! It's awesome what you're doing. I really admire people like you (even more so because of how young you are!) who want to truly see the world and learn first hand. Your parents have given you the best present a son could get----FREEDOM!

I will be following your adventures and praying for your safe journey & return.

Ophelia
Rancho Palos Verdes, CA

August 14, 2008 at 7:21 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Wow, loved Jen's photo essay of Zac's stay in Majuro.  What an amazing experience.  Zac regarding "crossing the line",..you must do something significant, not to mention a little crazy, (in true tradition) and it must be recorded.

August 14, 2008 at 7:32 AM  
Blogger Douglas Pistone said...

Hello Zac & Everyone,

Well thanks for the picture attachment and also for the Zac story attachment. They were both great. I loved all the pictures in Majuro especially the one while you put a small piece of pigs liver with blood in your mouth.

It's so good to hear your daily stories again. Hopefully when you leave Australia you'll have more great memories just like you did in Majuro.

Glad your having better winds today and we are all looking forward to your dock in Australia. Even though we'll miss hearing from you while your there we know you'll need the time to have some fun, eat, rest, and just socialize with different people. I'm sure that you are learning so much more from this journey than you even expected.

Hopefully you'll have some down time to look at all the packages, letters, and post cards. No pressure here just enjoy yourself and have a great time.

Sail On,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California

August 14, 2008 at 7:38 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

ZAC SUNDERLAND ON FRONT PAGE OF LOS ANGELES TIMES SPORTS SECTION!!!

"Hey!" i said. "That's my guy!" I never read the sports section, but when I saw your picture, I got so excited. The top photo is the one of you waving as you left Marina del Rey. The headline is "Young man and the sea." It's a good article, and I will post it on my classroom's bulletin board when school resumes next week.

I had to laugh about the coconuts. As Tom Hanks' character says in Cast Away, "Coconuts are a natural laxative." Speaking of Cast Away, do you have your own WILSON???

You're a good guy, Zac, and a sweetie (which is not what football-playing, sailing 16-year-old boys want to hear, but you are). I hope all the mail you got in Majuro is proving to be a nice diversion for you.

Be safe.

August 14, 2008 at 7:40 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

wow Zac you've traveled so far already!! I love checking the google map after you've given your position. Glad you had a great sleep - hope there's more of that in the next days ahead. Your slideshow was AWESOME!!

Thank you for sharing your life with us all... proud to be part of the 'Zac Pac"!!

Stay SAFE!!! and tke those Malaria Pills your mom said too!!!

Marianne: thanks for all your updates while Zac had a terrific time/rest in Majuro!!!

Jen

August 14, 2008 at 7:42 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Awesome pictures and a wonderful film about Zac. I just got goose bumps when he said his biggest fear is falling off the boat !!!! I wish him well and so hope he stays safe.

August 14, 2008 at 8:19 AM  
Blogger Becky said...

Well Zac, here in the U.S., it is 2 months since you departed on your voyage.

I'm glad the coconut helps you feel better. Glad also that you got some good rest.

I can't believe there are no comments yet on this blog. Well, as they say on Youtube--*first*--LOL!

You really made me laugh when you wrote about 'scoring' some goober peanut butter and jelly! :-)Whodathunk you would find that on a tiny island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean!

Smooth sailing~~Stay safe~~

August 14, 2008 at 8:30 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey Zac,

Glad you have been able to get 'in the groove again' so easily this time around. That's usually the way it works... the more you do something, the easier it becomes (you know the old saying, "Practice makes perfect".)

Always good to know that the electronics are still in working order doing what they are supposed to do. And it’s much better to find out when they do work rather than finding by ‘accident’ that they have failed! Those darned solar panels seem to have been giving you fits, nice to hear that you seem to have it worked out and are generating more power than you really can take. Shame you aren’t near the electric company to sell off some of your excess!

I haven’t seen Goober Grape PB&J in so long I almost had forgotten what it was… but your mention of scoring some at the market brought back a lot of memories of my youth. I nearly lived on that stuff in the summers.

Sounds like you are doing pretty good speed-wise so far… hope it keeps up. We would hate to see you just floundering around out there with no wind. Bet that would drive you completely nuts. I can’t imagine there would be too great a period of time that you would be without any wind out there though, since there’s nothing to really block the wind like on land with the trees and buildings. I’ve heard of the custom of making an offering when crossing the equator, but since I am not really a sea-fairer I can’t offer up any suggestions, but whatever you decide will do just fine, I am sure.

Saw the video essays that Jen Edney has done on your trip. Amazing photojournalist, that woman. You look like you really enjoyed your time on Majuro. In nearly every one of the photos, you had a big smile on your face and were having fun.

Well, guess I better shut up and let the next person get in a couple words. Safe travels and good winds to you!

Karl
Colorado Springs, CO

August 14, 2008 at 8:34 AM  
Blogger Marilyn said...

How exciting this morning to see the front page of the Sports Section of the Los Angeles Times with a half-page photo of Zac on Intrepid and two other photos, one being the send off with Carla’s grandmother and her sister, giving him the basket of traditional food for his trip. The article continued on the back page of the Sports Section (taking up another half page), and included a photo of Zac dancing with the Youth Director in Majuro.

When I checked this morning, the exact article wasn’t posted yet to the Internet, but the link that comes the closest to what was written in the article is
http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/outposts/2008/08/solo-sailor-zac.html

Perhaps the full article with the photos will be posted later today. A lot was said about how he is homesick and misses football this time of year, after being a star linebacker on the junior varsity team at a local school. One other thing mentioned in the article that I don’t remember Zac mentioning in his blog was seeing the amazing hypnotic luminous swirls in the sea caused by the phosphorescence.

I felt like I was reading about a relative! It’s a great article by Pete Thomas, and I’m sure it will increase the blog readership significantly.

Then, it was so good to get a new report from our captain! Zac, I'm so glad you are doing well, and I can't wait to find out what you do when you cross the Equator.

Marilyn
Woodland Hills

August 14, 2008 at 8:34 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

The LA Times article appeared today (8/14) almost taking over the front page of the sports section. Olympic coverage warrants its own section. The story was interesting but nothing ZacPac-ers don't already know. However, there's a great pic of the MDR departure.

Zac, I echo all the positive comments that have been posted here through out your journey. Keep positive, busy and don't be complacent!

Also, we have something in common; we're both top dog in a large "litter". I'm the oldest of eight boys. The main difference is that my baby brother is 42 years older than you are. :-)

Keep on keepin' on, Zac! We're all with you.

Dale in LA

August 14, 2008 at 8:38 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey Zac you are THE Man

Marianne, you're so sweet to be posting so late for all of us, so that we can be updated, and the coordinates and time so we know exactly where Zac is... thank you, thank you and Laurence too, for being understanding...

Whenever I look at the moon(full tonight or pretty close to full) i think of Zac and know it will be coming his way in the next eight hours or so, he being west of us...and know it will be good for sailing tonight (genesis 1:16)

you all have my heart pounding, with joy about the LA article and tears flowing freely...

in a time when all the nations are in competition with one another at the Olympics

it's wonderful to see Zac the internatinal ambassador, thrilling all of us in his and Intrepid's endeavor, cutting through all the things that separate and divide us as nations and unifying us as ONE...

"what a joyous joyous mission"

"I do not ask on behalf of these alone,but for those also who believe in Me through their word,
that they may all be ONE"
John 20:20

"Kudos" Zac, "Kudos" in crossing the equator, (think of the hugs, Zac think of the hugs ...smile and know you are loved)

now to "unify" those down under... selah

Zac you are in our thoughts and in our prayers constantly...24/7 first for safety and wisdom and learning and understanding... growing in your faith and maturity

even as the LORD brings you to mind...which is a lot 8->

mark and adino vicksburg ms.USA

August 14, 2008 at 9:13 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac on the front page of the sports section of the LA Times! It was a great article with pictures of Zac and Intrepid. Congratulations on "crossing the line!" We'll be anxious to hear how you celebrate! Thankfully, not swimming!

Also thoroughly enjoyed the video and music.

Safe sailing and many blessings,

Jennifer
Sherman Oaks, CA

August 14, 2008 at 9:14 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Here is a link for the L.A. Times article in today's paper:

www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-zac14-2008aug14,0,6815518.column

August 14, 2008 at 9:33 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

If you were in the navy for your first crossing, they'd dress you funny. What about doing your clothes like on inside-out day at school. Toss a couple of flying fish or something!

The boys rush to your blog every morning and plot you on our world map! Thanks for aiding in the homeschooling geography lessons! I teach 4th grade world geography at our tutorial, they are going to track you also as a part of their work! Thanks for inspiring another generation of homeschoolers!

August 14, 2008 at 9:58 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

In addition to today’s article, I found these others that I hadn’t yet seen so thought I would pass them along for anyone else who hadn’t seen them.

Photo Gallery - http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-25outdoors-pg,0,3245776.photogallery?1
May 26 - http://articles.latimes.com/2008/may/26/sports/sp-outdoors26
May 31 - http://articles.latimes.com/2008/05/31/sports/spw-sail31
June 23 - http://www.latimes.com/news/local/la-me-martinez23-2008jun23,0,2751381.column
June 30 - http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/outposts/2008/06/zac-sunderlan-1.html
July 28 - http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/outposts/2008/07/a-fair-wind-for.html
August 12 - http://latimesblogs.latimes.com/lanow/2008/08/where-in-the-wo.html

August 14, 2008 at 10:04 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac! It was wonderful to open the paper this morning to see you and your beautiful boat on the front page of the L.A. Times sport's section! You are going to really be a STAR by the time your journey is completed!

I really enjoyed Jen's photo essay and hearing the local music of the Marshall Islands. Looks like you had a wonderful time!

I was very disappointed that the card and a "little something" that I sent to you were returned to me, saying "incorrect address." I used the first address that your Mom posted and had already sent it off before she corrected it. I would imagine that I'm not the only one to get their mail back.

Glad that the coconut milk helped with your stomach ache....but don't over-due it! There is an old Hawaiian saying: something like "measure the feet between where you are sitting and the bathroom." lol

As usual, I am keeping track of your journey on google maps. You've come a long way, baby! ....with a longer way to go.

Full sails and beautiful sunsets!

Nancy in Palm Springs

August 14, 2008 at 10:07 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Fantastic to see your story update in the L.A. Times today, and to see your smiling face.
Stay well and be safe. And if you need a new iPod (or anything) just say so and I'll see what I can do when you dock in Australia.

Vicki
MAD Magazine
Los Angeles

August 14, 2008 at 10:22 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

So good to read your update in the LA Times this a.m. Let me know if you need a new iPod or anything and I'll see what I can do when you hit Australia.

Vicki
MAD Magazine
Los Angeles

August 14, 2008 at 10:25 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Kudo's to Jen for her beautiful images! The Youth to Youth Choir sounded awesome on the slide show, and you looked to be enjoying immersing yourself into the Marshallese culture with exception to the pigs blood dish, however you get an "A" for trying. Not sure I'd be that brave!
As for your offering as you cross the equator. If you still have your lei from Majuro you could toss it over. Fruit is also an acceptable offering. You could do a dance (naked if you want; but no cameras please) and howl a rip roaring screaming "I did it!" and don't forget to give a screaming thanks to God for continuing to watch over you.
Melanie in Torrance

August 14, 2008 at 10:32 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Good to see you're in good spirits. I'm sure there are amazing things ahead as well as behind.

Have some of your buddies keep you updated on the football scene via email, maybe that will make you feel a bit more included.

Always remember you are amazing, you can do anything you set your mind to, and your attitude makes the difference.

Have your brothers and sisters send you something personal (a favorite stuffed animal, or small toy or something) and when you look at it you can feel connected to each one.

Be safe. Be careful. Be happy!

August 14, 2008 at 10:54 AM  
Blogger Dana said...

Wow! Zac! Not just an interview with the LA Times, a 3/4 page story on the front page of the Sports Section! Impressive!

August 14, 2008 at 10:55 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

To Zac:
Welcome to the Southern Hemisphere,
look forward to your arrival in Durban and Capetown.


To Axel: [August 14, 2008 4:27 AM]I had the same problem with Google and St Helena. The 'flyto' location on Google is wrong. Try flying to the following coordinates:

15°55'18.81"S,5°42'18.63"W

also if you use the side bar in Google Earth and click on "Layers -Borders and Labels" then trawl the mid South Atlantic west of the border of Namibia and Angola, St Helana will show up.

August 14, 2008 at 11:11 AM  
Blogger davejb851 said...

Zac,
It's good that you're moving. It does the spirit good to be on the move, and separates one from the realities of "the hard."
You mentioned so long ago that one of your biggest concerns would be the time alone, yet as you get back into your routines, I am sure the quiet, the solitude, and the inner self comes out and enjoys those times now.
Here's a thought, dip a bucket half full north of the equator, fill it as you cross over to south of the line. Then pour it on yourself bringing together both sides of this water world, just as you have joined so much of this world along with you on your adventure.
You might sit a while as you cross and think of the family you have supporting you, and realize just how fantastic they are to be all the way along with you.
Far wind, calm sea, and great thoughts along the way, my young friend.

August 14, 2008 at 11:14 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac,

I am curious as to whose tradition says that you should offer something to King Neptune, the Romans with their god of the sea? I think the influences of the Romans in the South Pacific were next to nil back in the days, but maybe you are referring to the practices of some modern day sailors?

By being raised in a Judeo-Christian home, aren’t you more inclined to offer something up to the One and only God with the Big G, rather than to the little g guys? After being out at sea for so many years, I found myself with the time to ponder the universe, making me come to terms with which type of ground I wanted to build my house on. How about you, are you facing your opportunities to contemplate? I think you are, seeing as you brought up the subject.

Sorry for being factious, I know you just brought this up from something you just read, but traditions shouldn’t be accepted lightly without trying to understand their implications; especially with their impact on matters of the heart.

The article this morning in the L.A. Times was a good thing. Well written and not filled with the normal politically correct nonsense. The mention of lack of fish to date was funny, but with the many posts describing the uncountable ways to catch them, you should remedy this sad fact soon. This is kind of a stretch, but you have ‘caught’ several flying fish.

Good Sailing,

Jerry

August 14, 2008 at 11:35 AM  
Blogger Daveh said...

Good day Zac, mom, dad...

Great blog updates, pics, music, etc...

Charge on Zac, charge on... May the wind continue for you...

Sorry to hear Moana has doldrums, as I'm sure you know, it's worse between S. Africa and S. America...

If you're ever becalmed at night, tether in and lay right next to the mast, staring into the Heavens... You've probably already done this, but the perspective of the slight mast movement, painting lines across the heavens is spectacular!

Be safe as always....

Daveh & Skipper

August 14, 2008 at 11:40 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Zac, buddy, "a small article squeezed in between the Olympics", how 'bout Front Page, Above the Fold, huge pics, huge article, LA Times sports section, excellent, and we thought the boat was crowded before,
Love the Olympics, Go USA
Rock on Zac

August 14, 2008 at 11:43 AM  
Blogger Douglas Pistone said...

Hello Zac & Everyone,

After reading the blog this morning I left work immediately and went to purchase a copy of the LA Times. So Zac thought he might not get a big article because of the Olympics but the Olympics have it's own separate sports section. Zac took up around 70 percent of the sports section FIRST PAGE. Included on this first page are three pictures, two in MDR before leaving, and one in Majuro. The article then continued on page 6 and it took up around 35 percent of that page also with a picture of Zac dancing with a youth director in Majuro.

Hopefully this article will get many Angelenos (LA Residents) following the Zac Pac. If your a regular to the blog and the Zac Pac group we didn't hear anything new. Now this doesn't matter as long as others learn of his journey. Today I showed many of my clients coming into my business this LA Times article. On my way home tonight I'm going to pick up another copy to leave this one at work and show anyone who will listen to me.

Sail On,
Douglas Pistone
MDR, California

August 14, 2008 at 11:54 AM  
Blogger Clay said...

Ahoy Zac,

Got my T-shit today, it's the nicest shirt I have. Ordered another for my 25yr old daughter. Love the picture of Interpid with the bow spray, would love a poster of it.

Question Zac; Do you always fly with both jibs, what about at night, and what about the main, do you reef it through a squall or drop it.

thinking of you everyday,
Cheers

August 14, 2008 at 12:34 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

The equator..how exciting.Am really curious what you come with for your own initiation rite.
Would like to know what a convection area is. Will try to google it.
Photo and vids are wonderful.
-Ol' Charlie

August 14, 2008 at 1:00 PM  
Blogger Mouse on a Motorcycle said...

Zac, you're a capable young man, intelligent and brave, and I feel little qualified to offer advice, but I do so anyway.

All I ask is that you carefully consider the difference between harmless time-honored traditions of the sea and sacrifices to pagan gods. The Lord has been kind to you thus far, and your life is, very literally, in His hands on this voyage. The Bible is filled with stories of the consequences to those of G-d's people who worship other gods, whether by design or ignorance.

Not wanting to overstep myself, just a word of encouragement and support. I have every confidence in your ability to make this, and all other decisions onthis adventure. You are in my daily prayers as always.

Mouse in Whittier
www.myspace.com/mouseonamotorcycle

August 14, 2008 at 1:01 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Love reading the blogs and the comments! To answer Jerry's question as to the tradition of making an offering to Neptune when crossing the equator, I believe it originated with the British Navy and has been practiced by various Navys ever since. I don't think it matters where you are when you cross the equator, just that you are crossing it for the first time. Thanking God wouldn't be a bad idea as well, of course. (but I wouldn't leave out good old King Neptune!)http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crossing_the_equator

August 14, 2008 at 1:06 PM  
Blogger Deanna Stoppler said...

Zac,

My mom sent me your vimeo video. Very cool. Love the music. You are my mom's inspiration--she is 65 years old.

Deanna

August 14, 2008 at 1:13 PM  
Blogger johnnyBgood said...

hello all ---couldn't believe i did it--but...i actually spent the 50 cents to buy the LA TIMES --only for YOU zac!!!!!
sail on, kiddo.
john baker/w hollywood/ca/USofA
jbaker1226@aol.com

August 14, 2008 at 1:50 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

Hi Zac- pollywog and future shellback,DaveJb had a great idea for crossing the equator...using half of the water from each side and pouring it over you when you cross.I am not familiar with "an offering to Neptune"; generally crossing the equator is an initiation (sp?) welcoming you into the court of Neptune and the company of seasoned sailors.The tradition actually began as early as medieval times and has been celebrated by sailors around the world.  So put your clothes on inside out and backwords, pour the sea water over you and rejoice in your accomplishment. Maybe someone can obtain a Shellback certificate for you, as given to sailors in the US NAVY.Enjoy your accomplishment.Loved your article in the LA TIMES.  LindaWashington DC

August 14, 2008 at 1:53 PM  
Blogger Heather Wilds said...

Hearing you loud and clear and you sound stronger as the nautical miles pass. What have you learned so far that has surprised you the most?

Wondering if you have a companion like Tom Hanks and his volleyball?

Cheers!

August 14, 2008 at 2:41 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Thank you Jen Edney

what a great "equatorial crossing" gift to the Zac Pac..

Both of your pieces "EXCELLENT"
as we get to see more of "Zac" and "Team Sunderland"... and a taste of the Marshallese, a beautiful and sweet people and the music so so nice...

Welcome from the Zac Pac to all of the "new followers" coming aboard this incredible journey, can there be anything better than reading the blog while listening to stevie nicks...(all the blogs fantastic as well, such a varied crew...isn't it great)

thanks again Jen, we'll all be looking forward to more of your incredible work...

this journey just keeps getting better and better

mark n adino vicksburg,ms. USA

August 14, 2008 at 2:57 PM  
Blogger Mona said...

Zac,
This adventure just keeps getting more and more exciting. Crossing the equator, WOW what a milestone!
I went to the LA Times web site to see the "ZAC SPREAD" but decided I needed the full effect. Tried to find an LA Times in Tucson, but no luck, so I called my brother who will be arriving in LA this afternoon and he has promised to pick up todays edition for me. Can't wait to see it.
Be safe Zac!
Marianne, thanks for all the links Enjoyed them all.
Mona
Tucson, AZ

August 14, 2008 at 2:58 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

@ Dan.
Thanks for your help. Now I oan drop my anchor. The french didn't sank St. Helena after all LOL
Axel

August 14, 2008 at 4:24 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac,

The Los Angeles Times ran your article on Page 1 of the Sports Section. Now EVERYBODY knows about your little journey... LOL

http://www.latimes.com/sports/la-sp-zac14-2008aug14,0,6815518.column

I enjoy reading your blogs every day. Have a safe journey!

Allen

August 14, 2008 at 4:31 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hey Zac,
It is so much fun reading your blogs and following you on your voyage!!
To LindaWashingtonDC: Spot on for the great explanation of the traditions surrounding crossing the equator. Sorry for my goof earlier about an "offering" being made to Neptune and its origins. My bad. I will do more research before I post next time.

August 14, 2008 at 4:37 PM  
Blogger Karen said...

Zac and Marianne!
We were in Del Mar today and happen to pick up the Los Angeles Times...Front page of the Sport section and almost full page "Young man and the Sea"! What a surprise for us to see! Guy went crazy, of course we are taking the article back to Charleston for all to see! We are so proud of him and your whole family! I am glad he is getting the recognition he deserves! We are so glad we came to California to be able to read the article first hand!

Zac, Guy says to cut a piece of your hair and offer it to Neptune! He'll probably love your hair as much as we all do! Stay safe!! Karen...Guy, Emma and Sophia

August 14, 2008 at 5:30 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

with respect to all the Olympic Athletes -- our man zac made quite a 'spash' in the LA Times today. we love you zac!.

August 14, 2008 at 5:52 PM  
Blogger Daryl said...

Great entry for today! Lots of fun stuff to think about and imagine. I'm always pleased with photos, too. The photo gallery is wonderful! Eager to see we Zac offered to the sea god.

from Iowa

August 14, 2008 at 5:58 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Star linebacker too? What's this kid eat for breakfast!!!
I hope U jumped in as U transited the Equator. (((Although I did see a blonde blogger thought U were in Ecuador..OMG!!!))
So Sunderland vs. Butkis in cage. Sunderland wins!

August 14, 2008 at 7:02 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Mom Sunderland,
The new photo gallery is very nicely done. I appreciate Flickr and have some photos residing there.
It works well for me so you did a good job.

Wow, and isn't that Psalm a joyful comforting thing.
Have a good night, Kathy from Bend Oregon

August 14, 2008 at 8:13 PM  
Blogger Tomi said...

It's night here in ATL, which means you've hopefully crossed the equator safely. Hope you enjoyed the N & S hemisphere bath (safely on deck).

Welcome Shellback to the southern side of our beautiful homeworld. May the Merpeople ruled by Neptune continue to keep your vessel safe as you journey onward.

HUGS!
Tomi/ATL

PS-
Thx Team Sunderland for the shirts! May just have to get several more for my nieces/nephews a few paydays from now. Also, thx for the new look to the photogallery page. Nice job!!
T

August 14, 2008 at 8:25 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac,
Great article in the L.A.Times and so very well deserved.

As Marianne said, the photo essay by Jen Edney was fantastic.

Just want to let you know how much we look forward to reading your blog several times each day. Zac, you have a great talent for writing.

God speed, stay safe and cherish every moment.

Dick & Gin
Upland

August 14, 2008 at 8:32 PM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Drat, the vimeo items have been removed. :^( But congrats on all your accomplishments!

August 18, 2008 at 7:38 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

Hi Zac- Heard about your voyage in a recent sailing magazine. I am new to sailing--- have only been a few times, but I am hooked and now dream of sailing. Can't think of anything else. Your adventure is quite inspirational and is very impressive. Wish I could experience the open ocean some day. Good luck.

August 20, 2008 at 7:05 PM  

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