Water Tribe races are Extreme Sporting Events – by definition are activities that have a high level of inherent danger.
The organizers of these events and it’s members go by tribal names, such as Runs with Beer, and Excitable Boy. Water Tribe events are long, grueling races that are extremely demanding, both physically and mentally, participants must sign a release form to enter. The bylaws of the race stipulates that you may DIE participating in the event.
With the first Saturday in March fast approaching, the Fort Desoto to Key Largo Everglades Challenge consumes three-Hundred miles of sailing, paddling and rowing, through alligator, bear, and shark invested waters. Participant must join and assume a tribal name to enter, and must have a mast that can be lowered to navigate under bridges.
Last years race, in perfect conditions, had a record 140 boats of which only 80 finished. Some of the notables that entered the race last year was Rolex Sailor of the Year Jeff Linton, North Sails’ Dan Neri, Multi-Hull Champion Randy Smyth, Hall Spars’ Phil Garland and the Naval Academy’s sailing team head coach Jahn Tahanski.
“The purpose of the organizers WaterTribe is to encourage the development of boats, equipment, skills, and human athletic performance for safe and efficient coastal cruising using minimal impact human and wind powered watercraft based on kayaks, canoes, and small sailboats.”