A word from Chief as the EC and UF challenges put the competitors to the test. 19 have dropped or not started at all
"The CP2 deadlines are not being extended. This is because we have a brick wall deadline at Key Largo and if you can't make the deadline at CP2 it is going to be even harder to get to Flamingo and then Key Largo on time. There are alternate routes that can help you avoid open water and you are even somewhat protected from the wind. Take a hard look at your charts if you did not put alternate routes in your GPS. Easy for me to say - I know.
Consider too that the CP2 to CP3 leg is very remote and it is not as easy to drop out if you need to. If and when you get to CP2 you must do a hard core assessment of your abilities and conditions and decide if you really can make Flamingo. It is not prudent to call out the coast guard and put other lives at risk along with your own. There is honor in doing the right thing and no honor is lost when conditions are this bad for such an extended period. Look at the WaterTribe legends that have already had to drop. They didn't like it but they did the right thing.
All that being said, we will assess things on a case by case basis. Normally two missed deadlines is a strong indication that conditions are beyond your capabilities."
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