Mini Transat 2023: The Mission Continues
The timeline may have shifted, but my mission remains the same and I need your help more than ever to accomplish this adventure!
Once again, I am racing as an ambassador for U.S. Patriot Sailing to raise awareness for this incredible non-profit team.
I am honored to represent U.S. Patriot Sailing in the upcoming Mini Transat and excited to see the team continue to succeed. Your donation to my campaign is needed to help raise awareness for this team by getting me to the race course. Please consider helping cover the many administrative and logistical costs this season. While I have the boat and initial equipment set up to race this season, I continue to seek additional donors who believe in this campaign. Introductions to possible supporters always helps!
My mission is the 2023 Mini Transat. This solo ocean race, covering over 4,000 nautical miles across the Atlantic Ocean, unassisted, and on a 21’ sailboat. This 2022 season is a continuation of the required qualification process for the 2023 Mini Transat.
2022 Race Plan: https://www.pgnoceanracing.com/blog/new-year-new-races
Last season I successfully transitioned from active duty Marine Corps to the reserves, shipped my boat Terminal Leave to France, and sailed over 3,400 nm in the Atlantic Ocean, Bay of Biscay, English Channel and Celtic Sea. After completing a 1,000 nm solo qualification sail, I am only a couple races away from fully qualifying for the Mini Transat with over a year left before the start.
2021 Season recap blog post: https://www.pgnoceanracing.com/blog/3400-nautical-miles
Even though I am not serving full time anymore, I am still a Marine Corps officer in the reserves. Over the winter months I am completing my required "drill" time by working with my previous unit at the Pentagon, Headquarters Marine Corps Intelligence Division. Additionally, I am a student at the National Intelligence University and working to complete my Masters in Strategic Intelligence. Finally, I am volunteering with U.S. Patriot Sailing as a skipper for a few events this winter before going back to France in April.
U.S. Patriot Sailing and My Story
U.S. Patriot Sailing supports the veteran community navigate the hardships of transition to civilian life, rehabilitation after injury, and the complex life challenges associated with combat deployments. The organization accomplishes its mission by welcoming veterans back onto a winning team, provides camaraderie, a sense of mission accomplishment, and new dynamic experiences.
This 100% volunteer run national organization is completely funded by grants and generous donations that support all aspects of running a team: boat dockage, haul out, maintenance, safety gear and regatta entry fees. Every dollar donated to the team directly supports its operations. For more information about U.S. Patriot Sailing check out the team’s website here:
I have sailed and volunteered with U.S. Patriot Sailing in Annapolis since 2018. Earlier that year, I had returned from a deployment in the Middle East, moved from North Carolina up to the D.C. area, and wanted to get back out on the water sailing.
U.S. Patriot Sailing was there for me when I was going through a difficult period in my personal life. The team provided an opportunity to get back out on the water racing while surrounded by fellow veterans who provided support off the water as well. Being a member of this team while transitioning off active duty last year provided tremendous support. This is why the team exists and I am proud to represent U.S. Patriot Sailing on the international level.
My personal story is just one example of hundreds of veterans this organization has helped...
Check out previous blog posts here: https://www.pgnoceanracing.com/blog
