Friday, October 2, 2009: A Difficult Decision
Due to continued inclement weather including daily rain showers, steadily decreasing temperatures and the biggest factor, high winds, there has been a change in the trip format. Although this decision was difficult to make, since it follows weeks of preparation and training, the concern is that the gondola could be damaged. It is difficult to control a gondola while standing on a narrow slippery, wet deck for hours in heavy wind gusts. While fighting to keep on course, the boat could easily be swept to shore and damaged on the rocks lining the canal.
Therefore, starting just west of Brockport, NY, I will be completing my journey along the canal path by bicycle. Unwilling to give up, I plan to ride alongside the canal on the Schwinn beach cruiser that was brought along in the gondola and used for evening transportation in the canal towns.
The Schwinn Beach Cruiser: Gondola Model
Ironically, this adjustment to a new form of transportation is emblematic of the disease, ALS, for which we are attempting to raise awareness. I am determined to complete the trip but am forced to adjust to conditions beyond human control.
I'd like to try again next SUMMER !
Tuesday, September 29, 2009 : Medina to Holley
Woke up in my new tent, it’s considerably smaller than the last, but NO LEAKS!
Enjoyed some coffee at the Shirt Factory Café then showered at the marina. Before departing I was interviewed by The Daily News (Batavia NY). The article can be viewed here.
I departed at 10:00 am with the photographer snapping my picture. In rain and high winds, I rowed to Albion and stopped at the town wall. Took a break and considered spending the night, but decided to push on to Holley.
Arrived at Holley at 5:30pm, the lift bridge operator had left for the day. I was able to drive my boat under the bridge with inches to spare - not unlike what they do daily in Venice. This is where I tied up for the night. There were a number of times during the day where conditions reminded me of “The Deadliest Catch.” It has me wondering if I can continue safely.
Monday, September 28, 2009 Medina NY
Hi thanks for checking back. Sunday was a great rowing day. I rowed almost 6 hours without stopping. The current and the light wind pushed me along. I asked a bicyclist passing me to check my speed. Amazingly, he told me that I was making 4.5 - 5 mph. This is more than twice my expected speed.
Monday morning before rain
I made it to Medina, NY and am tied near the lift bridge. My tent is under a nearby tree. Today, it is raining and the wind is gusting up to 50mph per the weather report. The wind and rain is expected until midnight. After much agonizing I made the decision to stay in Medina at least for the morning.
We'll see what what the afternoon brings ... One problem is that the lift bridges and locks cease operation @ 5:00 pm. If I leave this afternoon I could potentially get stuck 10-15 miles from a town tied to a wall near a bridge. 
Shirt Factory Cafe in Medina NY