2024—Here Comes the Sun Tour

“A Silver Lining of Hope”

June 8th-14th, 2024

$445,998.26 was the total raised including Sylvester’s .50 :1 match.

This year’s funds will be directed to further research by Sylvester in cancer epigenetics, specifically Ewing Sarcoma and Mutations in Cancer.

Preface
By Adam “Hemingway” Scholer

Before any journey begins, there’s an unmistakable mix of anticipation, preparation, and a touch of chaos. In the months leading up to this trip, there was training, fundraising, and endless discussions about plans, routes, and logistics. Then, before we knew it, it was launch eve—filled with that familiar cocktail of excitement and anxiety that keeps you tossing and turning in bed until the alarm blares at dawn. This trip report captures the essence of an adventure that’s equal parts grueling, rewarding, and unforgettable.

Each day on the water presented its own challenges and rewards, reminding us of the vastness of the world and the limits of our endurance. From the mosquito-ridden nights on Elliot Key to the humbling sight of dolphins dancing beside our kayaks, these experiences have become a tapestry of memories—some amusing, others downright arduous.

There is an unspoken rhythm to this journey, one that pulls together a crew of intrepid paddlers and those who support us from the shore. To say this was simply a trip would be to diminish the transformative power of the miles we paddled, the obstacles we overcame, and the friendships forged along the way. It was more than just a long voyage; it was a testament to the human spirit’s ability to keep fighting, to keep paddling, and to never quit.

As you read this report, I hope you can sense the wind on your face, feel the saltwater spray, and join us on a passage that has made an indelible mark on our souls. For those of you who have paddled before or dream of paddling in the future, may this be a tribute to the adventure of life on the water—a long, strange trip indeed.

Day 1: June 8th
By Steve “OB aka Iron Manatee aka Viceroy” O’Brien and Patrick “Iron Tire” Linfors

As I slowly allowed the gravity of the Castaway’s pending D-Day to set in, I wondered quietly in the darkness of my room, if General Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Commander of the Invasion of Normandy on June 6, 1944, got much sleep the night before his D-Day. After twenty-five years of “sleepless nights before”, you’d think I would have the pre-game jitters under control by now. Well, Eisenhower had to worry about getting his troops on the beach, and I had to worry about getting my troops “off the Beach!”

Eisenhower had to worry about places like Omaha Beach and Utah Beach, and I had to worry about beaches and rocky put-ins called South Beach, Black Point, Coconut Grove, and Hobie Beach, the easiest one for access by far is Hobie on Virginia Key. South Beach had great sunrises, but it also had the freighters of Government Cut. Not a good mix with our small gaggle of plastic kayaks.

One of my shortcomings as a long-distance paddler is my ability to pack effectively for the seven-day trip. The storage space in the aft-and after holds of even the tandem kayaks is minimal, so the mantra is to pack slightly less than you need. Also, there is the factor of weight. Whatever you pack, you have to push, and having said that, by Day 6, you are contemplating drilling holes in your toothbrush handle to save some weight. So, who is a worse packer than myself? Well, that is up for debate. Bob Linfors once packed a full chessboard, not the little magnetic ones, mind you, and he allegedly packed a bonded multi-volume history of the Civil War. In all fairness, the chessboard came in quite handy one night, as we lodged in an un-air-conditioned trailer on Fiesta Key. Captain-of-the-Boats may be the most efficient packer in our illustrious history: no sleeping bag, no camp pillow, no battery-operated fan; just his red Spartan tunic and that’s about it. (There is more truth to this than jest.)

Day One has always held special memories for me. This one was no exception, as Greg Trainor, path-finder, mechanic, risk-assessment expert, and all-around-nice guy, was our guest at “Chez OB.” He came in the night before from Winter Haven and was already in his pre-jump ritual of doing yoga stretches and mixing some alchemy-like cocktails of vitamins and electrolytes. I can’t recall the number of times he has recreated that same scene the “night before” a launch. Sadly, the one thing that was missing and will never come back, was the laughter, and the smell of freshly brewed coffee that would fill our living room, as Nils Linfors, an old Coast Guard “lifer,” and my father, Bob O’Brien, himself a Navy veteran, would always be in good spirits, swapping stories. My father passed in 2017, and Nils in 2019.

Trucks loaded, we pulled out and headed to the launch. I could distinctly hear my 20th-century Toyota Tacoma groaning under the load of two Seda Gliders (The Red October and the newly acquired Hindenburg), as we merged north on US-1 to head for Virginia Key.

During Normandy, the Allies depended upon the simple but rugged C-47 transport plane, quickly converted from the Douglas DC-3 civilian airliners, shortly after the war broke out, to a rugged all-purpose transport plane. General Eisenhower stated that the venerated C-47s were a big reason why the Allies won the European war. My 1998 Toyota didn’t help win any local wars, but it has successfully transported boats for all twenty-five missions! It may look like hell, but like the historic C-47, it delivers every time.

John Del Rossi, our new member and prospect, a Reiki healer, physical fitness buff, and general Psychonaut, rolled up next to me on Virginia Key at about 5:45 a.m. Together, we began in the darkness to unload boats in anticipation of the rest of the team arriving soon. The bugs were bad, and the wind and rain were starting to pick up.

Eisenhower may have postponed Normandy because of bad weather, but the Castaways would not miss their date with destiny.

Soon, the amazing landlubbers were trying to dodge raindrops to set up canopies, food, merchandise, and AV equipment. The waves of wind and driving rain kept coming through the 6:00 a.m. hour. Amateur forecasters kept checking their phones, watching radar, and announcing times the rain would stop. “6:30!” “10 more minutes!” Just before 7:00 a.m., the clouds started to part, and in a fitting nod to the 2024 tour name, “Here Comes the Sun.”

To the paddlers, Mercy handed out bananas with messages of encouragement, sandwiches, and cookies. Peggy handed out smoked eggs, beef jerky, and ice.

Some 150+ people gathered on the sand in front of banners highlighting team sponsors and Castaways flags. The opening ceremony began with these words from Patrick:

“We all go through hard times, difficult moments in our lives, and some of these moments can feel like they last a long time, like a long, cold, lonely rain storm, but eventually, it does change. The rain stops, the clouds part, and then, “Here Comes the Sun.”

On behalf of the Castaways Against Cancer, welcome to the “Here Comes the Sun Tour,” and thank you for helping us provide a “Silver Lining of Hope.”

Silver is associated with a 25th-anniversary because it’s a metal that represents durability, strength, and beauty.

When one battles cancer, the road is challenging and treacherous. But we believe, in every battle, there are moments of durability, strength, and beauty, just like in every Miami to Key West journey via kayak, bicycle, and running shoe.

If a silver lining is something good that can be found in bad, then the Castaways Against Cancer, on this Silver Anniversary, offer that silver lining.

We are here, and we will continue to honor, fight, and celebrate. And you are here to do the same. Thank you for choosing to get out of bed this morning to join us here for the 25th annual launch - and thank you for supporting the Here Comes the Sun Tour!”

Our favorite Pino, the First Lady of the Castaways, the director of campus ministry from Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, Mary Beth Pino, offered a beautiful opening prayer, exciting OB, as the prayer referenced a second-century Buddhist.

For the first time at a launch, the National Anthem was sung, and beautifully, by Kathy Rodriguez.

Eric Pino was introduced as “the man who sleeps on a pillow of wine, a Columbus Hellion legend, street hockey extraordinaire, Costco fanboy, the most interesting man in the world; the debonair, rum infused, world traveling, Captain of the Castaways Against Cancer!”

Eric highlighted the team from Sylvester, sharing the amazing work they continue to do with the dollars raised by the Castaways.

Then, Eric welcomed dignitaries from Miami-Dade County including Parks Director, Maria Nardi, Commissioner Raquel Regalado, and Mayor Daniella Levine Cava. They made it official. Our D-Day launch spot was no longer Hobie Beach. Our section was now named, “Castaways Against Cancer Beach.” A sign near the entrance made it official, and a temporary marker in the sand was debuted in advance of something more permanent. (Wow!)

Captain Pino asked Patrick to wrap it all up with some closing comments ahead of the first stroke.

- Patrick -

“I think we leave it up to one of our favorites who passed away from cancer this past year and has been added to our In Honor list.
This is from Jimmy Buffett…
When this world starts a-reelin'
From that pressure drop feelin'
We're just treading water each day
There's a way to feel better
Be well-set to weather the storms 'til the sun shines again
When your compass is spinnin'
And you're lost on the way
Like a leaf in the wind, friend
Hear me when I say
Bubbles up
They will point you towards home
No matter how deep or how far you roam
They will show you the surface, the plot and the purpose
So, when the journey gets long
Just know that you are loved
There is light up above
And the joy is always enough
Bubbles up”

OB’s wife Candy had done the team’s inaugural ceremonial first stroke some years back, so OB, on this 25th-annual launch, was asked to complete the ceremonial first stroke.

To the cheers of all those gathered, the flotilla shoved off from the beach into a rather improved morning, a gentle wind coming out of the southwest with only one-foot seas. As we passed the troubled Miami Seaquarium, the decision was made to change the traditional route, and travel on the inside to save time, not taking the outside route that scoots the oceanside of the Cape Florida lighthouse. So, our bows pointed toward the historic pastel-colored stilted buildings perched on long legs over the sand flats, maybe not even a mile off the Cape. The story has it that some of the greatest and most raucous parties from the age of the Great Gatsby to the Miami Vice days had occurred there in Stiltsville. But now the place looked like a quiet and salt-aged relic of a bygone era. I believe the last time we visited the flats was several years ago when then-paddler, Anthony Berger, interred the ashes of his late father into the waters off Stiltsville, one of his father’s favorite places to visit.

We headed across the “Safety Valve Flats,” where the waters of Biscayne Bay merge with the Atlantic. The tide was in our favor, and the boats had enough draft to pass the shallows without too much effort. Soldier Key is just a little spit of land about five miles south of Cape Florida. Maybe forty-some years ago, there was talk of the day cruise lines making plans to develop the Key. Lucky for us, this did not happen. What a wonderful place to take a snack, drink a cold beverage, get out of the boat, stretch your legs, and let it slowly sink in that our saga has begun.

From there, it’s typically a long open water paddle. With sunshine all around, and storms off in the distance, punishing the mainland, the kayakers passed the Ragged Keys, then Boca Chita, and then Sands Key. The final afternoon break on Day 1 is typically a “hydration” stop among the bacchanalia that is Sands Cut on a Saturday afternoon. Historically, we find a shallow amongst the boats and loud music, tell our story to a curious on-looker or two, and earn a handed-down-from-the-boat cold beer. But this time, rather than funny looks, we were welcomed with open arms. A boat meet-up of Columbus and Castaways supporters was already anchored up to cheer us on. Huge Columbus and Castaways flags waved us in. More than a dozen friends were there to provide food or drink. It’s moments like these that immediately push away the pain of paddling for hours on end.

After some 90 minutes of fun and conversation, the paddlers hopped back in the kayaks and pressed on the final hour of paddling to Elliott Key. We camp on night 1. Why? There are not too many options, but it also keeps us connected to our roots and allows us to bond as a team. JC Mas and Sebastian’s brother met us at Elliott with more supplies to support. The tents went up, dinner was eaten, and laughs were had. Many of the paddlers watched a spectacular sunset in the shadows of Mt. Trashmore and Turkey Point.

Once the sun goes down, many of the paddlers hop in their tents to avoid the mosquitoes. They hope against hope for some solid sleep and no sweat. Neither of those things usually happens.

Day 2: June 9th
By Omar “Ponyboy” Beceiro

It’s difficult to tell when day one ends and day two of a tour begins. The transition from one day to the next is typically marked with a night of sleep. One goes to sleep on Friday and wakes on Saturday. On Eliott Key, I’m often forced into a sweltering tent as the sun sets by a relentless swarm of mosquitos initiating a lengthy night of fitful if any, sleep. There is seldom a clear demarcation between days one and two on Eliott Key. Yet I am back for my ninth year. Others, 25 years!

It was decided a few years ago that if you aren’t sleeping you may as well be paddling. So, preparations begin around four AM. For me, the day begins with a cereal bar, a box of soy milk followed by canned coffee. As tiresome as it is to be in a free-standing sauna for 8-10 hours, leaving its confines is daunting. Alas, there is no avoiding the onslaught that awaits paddlers outside their tents. I don’t know what’s worse, the sound of millions of tiny buzzing mosquito wings around the ears or their bites? On the surface, launching from Elliot Key may seem chaotic with paddlers shuttling gear from their campsites to kayaks while futilely swatting at bugs you cannot see but it is truly a marvel of teamwork. No one paddles away from the beach until all boats have been packed and splashed. Minutes later we are off the beach, paddling south with a cool breeze in our face and Elliot Key becomes a memory until next year. And so begins day two, displacing thoughts of discomfort with a fresh outlook on the challenges and beauty that lie ahead.

This year at our typical breakfast stop, a shoal just south of Caesar’s Creek, we were met by an interesting and unwelcomed guest. While munching on an apple, I noticed an unfamiliar pattern in the monotonous sea of roots and branches that make up our coastal red mangrove forest. A relatively small Burmese Python watching over us from its perch in the branches of a red mangrove. Although not a threat to humans, Burmese Pythons have been credited with a significant decline in native fauna in Everglades National Park. After a few obligatory photos, we paddled on to our next destination, Pumpkin Key.

As if on cue, just a few hundred yards from Pumpkin Key, the clouds unleashed a short but welcome cool shower. It was Mother Nature’s way of rinsing sweat, sunscreen, and bug spray from the paddlers before landing on Pumpkin Key for lunch. On shore, we were greeted by the island’s caretaker Michael, his wife, and son Max. This year marks the third year we have been allowed to come ashore on this private island and enjoy lunch in the shade and on terra firma. This year was different, however. Michael had towels and cold drinks waiting on the beach. We were royalty for an hour. After exchanging a few stories, laughs, and photos we were off to Steamboat Creek which connects Biscayne Bay to Barnes Sound.

Barnes Sound is notorious for challenging all the paddlers regardless of experience with, at times, brutal headwinds and seas. This year Poseidon went easy on the approximate 5.5-mile crossing to Jewfish Creek with relatively light but steady winds and seas, tiring but manageable. Jewfish Creek connects Barnes Sound to Blackwater Sound and marks our last break before reaching our final destination of day 2, Key Largo.

As with the Barnes Sound crossing, Blackwater Sound was relatively calm. However, that does not diminish the fact that shoulders are tired and backs ache from paddling for 8-10 hours. It is during these crossings when a headwind slows a boat and robs a paddler of forward progress when he or she stops for a snack or drink of water. These open water crossings challenge the body as much as the mind. It is the mind that routinely insists I quit paddling and spare the body from inevitable soreness and pain. These are the times I reflect on why we paddle in the first place. I think of cancer patients who would give anything to trade places with me. I remind myself that my discomfort is insignificant compared to what they are experiencing. I remind myself that the Teams and my temporary aches and pains will go a long way to help fund treatments and possibly a cure for cancer. I repeat this exercise throughout the journey, each time quieting the mind and allowing me to stay focused on why I paddle.

Day 3: June 10th
By Caleb “Darwin” Isenberg

As the sun broke upon day three of the tour, I scanned the beach and the Yellow Man/Banana Hammock for my belongings. Naturally, I could not find my water shoes which had been haphazardly stowed away the evening before in an unknown space. This now brings my tally of lost items to two, as I had also been unable to locate the neoprene hatch cover the morning before.

Despite the lack of footwear, Kari and I mounted our steed and set off into deeper water. The area, which had been run amok by cholo jet skiers the day before, was still. Only hurricane casualties disrupted the water’s surface now. After the customary morning prayer, we headed south, towards an opening in the mangroves.

The channel we entered leads to a smaller opening in the mangroves, the revered Dusenbury Creek (Dusenberries). For some, it’s a nice time to hone evasive maneuvers while trying not to become decapitated by a branch, for others, an opportunity to catch a break from the sun. For me, it is the perfect chance to get an up-close look at some wildlife while waiting for some of the others to figure out the evasive maneuvers thing (Patrick and OB).

What I was not anticipating was coming across an American crocodile. There is only a very small population present in the Florida Keys and therefore very uncommon to run into. Once I got my Steve Irwin fix, we faced a short crossing to our first stop of the day. This is where we encountered the first drops of rain before last year’s thunderstorm. This year, thankfully, we saw no such thing and it was a smooth ride to the ‘Salty Piece of Land’.

A smooth ride minus a miscommunication regarding where the first planned stop was. Typical. After a short stop in the knee-deep water of the ‘Salty Piece of LAND,’ we set our sights on the Mas Residence. For the second year, the Mas family had, for some reason, allowed a group of hobos into their beautiful home. Food and drink were shared, capped off by the best key lime pie money can buy.

However, in what felt like fifteen minutes, our oppressive overloads (Pino and OB) urged us to get back in our boats. “Remember what happened last year” echoed amongst the paddlers. For those who don’t remember, we paddled the last hour in pitch-black darkness. Kayaks don’t have headlights. Despite the warning, the only thing that got me back into my cockpit was the thought of standing out by some toilet seats with a cup in my hand.

Again, the trip to our next stop was butter on a baby’s bottom. After about two hours of paddling on a full stomach, we arrived at Toilet Seat Row. As is customary, a drink was had while we watched boaters (all fully clothed this year) pass through the channel. This year, a curious nurse shark decided to join us on our break. Some paddlers were not so welcoming of the shark; however, it came and went in peace.

Now, came the worst part of the day’s journey, two hours of paddling in a race against the sunset. And let’s say that I was not in prime condition for physical exertion at this point. Yet, we press on. About halfway through the last leg of the paddle a strong desire to relieve myself came over me. However, given that I was sitting just feet from a lady, I was finding it difficult to do so.

As master of the rudder this year, I decided to make a b-line to what appeared to be solid land with some very nice-looking bushes. Upon exiting the boat, I immediately sank to my thigh in grass and muck. So, channeling my inner Bear Grylls, I army crawled to the nearest shrubbery and successfully completed what I had set out to do. Now feeling much more comfortable, the last hour of the paddle passed by like a breeze and before I knew it, we approached the landing at the hotel in Islamorada.

However, the day was not over, the boats had to come out of the water. The only thing that stood between us and dry land was the slickest boat ramp on this side of the Mississippi. Kari and I waited in the water for more paddlers to arrive to haul our beast out. Thinking everything was under control, we made our move to get the boat onto land. Again, in typical Castaway fashion, my first step onto the boat ramp resulted in me laying on my side trying to pretend like that did not just hurt. Thankfully no serious injuries were sustained at that moment, and we were all able to enjoy a nice shower before heading to Islamorada Brewing Company for dinner and a beer.

As the day came to a close, I sat motionless in a wooden chair questioning my life and if I would survive another four days of this. The only saving grace for my mental state was the Florida Panthers putting a whooping on some Canadians. Thus, as the saying goes, “Bada bing bada boom”. The day was complete as I laid my head on a pillow and turned the lights out.

The Goldie-Oldie
By Suzy “Chiquita” Curry

Ten years as a team member of the Castaway Against Cancer. What a wonder it has been. Being a 13-year breast cancer survivor, I am honored to know such people who dedicate a week of their lives to the fight to end cancer. My happy memories are too many to list, but here are a few. Watching a pod of dolphins playing off Key Largo, the fellowship of the team, seeing sunrises and sometimes sunsets on the water the utter tranquility of paddling, Molasses Key and Raiman’s rendezvous, and of course day 6 at Tarpon Creek. This year, I had to be a team member differently. I did a ‘golden oldie” triathlon, I walked the length of the keys, biked it also, and am now hopefully going to kayak 110 miles, up to 44 now. We face pain and difficulty, but a cancer patient doesn’t stop when treatment gets hard, and neither will we. Till 2025, Ciao

Day 4: June 11th
By Greg “Rainman” Trainor

Two score and five years ago there was a day 4 our founding father Steve O’Brien brought forth to us. Eighteen years ago I had my first day 4 in the year 2006.

The purpose is the same for the trip every year however, the dynamics and variables are always changing on any given day. Each of us views each day differently obviously I look at the weather, the wind, the factors, and the variables while others decide what they’re going to drink or what they will have for lunch, or if I am even paddling today, or what’s going to break now.

It’s always nice to start the day off with glass. No, not a glass of rum or a glass of water, but calm water. Something about creating your own little break or wake in the water from your boat adds to some peace and serenity. In my mind, day 4 has always been viewed as the longest and hardest day as it is part of the late afternoon scorching sun that makes it seem like you are skipping across the sun’s surface after passing Craig key heading toward the rendezvous outside of Long Key Viaduct.

From our rendezvous, it is still 6 miles to our landing point at 4 pm in the afternoon with a blazing sun on most trips.

Day 4 is a unique beast.

We paddle with the intention of always trying to paddle together or with groups and checking on each other. We are very fortunate to have FWC with us on a support boat to check in on our entire group. Day 4 for me always means trying to get pictures or pass by and say a prayer for the Veterans around the Veterans Memorial. It is located just north of Anne’s Beach or an eyeshot from Craig’s Key. Please read the history associated with the history behind this as so many have lost their lives building the bridges.

Day 4 always means a stop at Robbie’s for a sponsored breakfast that is second to none. It is a regroup, meet up with sag support god bless Peggy and Joe, or a reshuffle for the rest of the day. until recent years, getting a hold of some ice has been fairly difficult going into the middle and late afternoon. But sometimes we have a small break at Ann’s Beach to get some, we refreshed at Craig’s key recently with our SAG support and Richard Suzy’s husband has been, a night and shining son showing up with a cooler of ice, and the last several years at the rendezvous point. It’s something about ice that you strive to have when you don’t have the convenience. It’s almost related to that movie if any of you’ve seen it, Mosquito Coast where Harrison Ford decides to make ice and tote it through the jungle just to show the local natives what ice is and he shows up with, a palm-sized piece of ice. No lie, 10 flesch years ago if we had enough ice for one drink in a late afternoon, we were doing good.

Some of the best wildlife can be seen on day four. For example, I still remember over 18 years ago on day 4 passing south of Craig’s key I saw a hammerhead shark. Almost every year we see tarpon through that area, dolphins through that area, and turtles. This year, I saw a shark surface right in front of my boat and went right back down. And when we’re in the shoals, we often see some small nurse sharks come feeding between our boats and our toes trying to pick up all the pieces of our afternoon snacks.

As the years have been progressing, some of the speeds and calipers of the paddlers have been changing. It’s not so much the stamina as everyone is able to make it to the destination, but it’s more about the journey each hour each day and for everyone to reflect on their own paddle and, it always seems that people break off in groups that that adjacent teammate paddles at the equivalent speed or caliper. Sometimes it may just be the association of music.

Finally, I’ve always seen day 4 as a pivotal day for many paddles and specifically for me as many many tours I’ve had to stop and head home, or joining up with the group to finish the week or part of my trip just may include the middle of the week and day four. I really think day four is a testament to one’s temperament and mental endurance as there have been many days that we have started at 7 am and have seen 7 pm due to weather, kayak issues, or purely just the distance with the sun beating down on us.

Day 5: June 12th
By Paul “the Machine” Kumer

Waking up on day 5 at Gulfview is typically filled with excitement and mosquitos. This particular day 5 would not disappoint, as it would be one for the Castaway annals.

Despite the present wind, the mosquitos did not relent and welcomed the team for breakfast. Between bits of hard-boiled eggs and bagels, paddlers prepared their boats for the day’s trip. Many spent the morning pumping water from their cockpits due to the torrential downpour the night before.

With boats prepped, the team began transporting the boats to the water moving carefully to avoid slipping on the slippery dock. As the final boats launched, the wind began to wake up signaling to the team what was in store for the day.

After a brief prayer, the group made their way through the bay to Burnt Point where they gathered for a brief break and discussed how best to navigate the strengthening wind. The decision was made to paddle inside Bamboo Key and hug the coastline on the way to Vaca Cut. Though a brief shower met the team, the growing concern was the growing gusts.

While approaching Vaca Cut, the team organized itself to ensure Frigo’s payload was secured. As the team made their way under the Vaca Cut bridge with the assistance of a noticeable current pulling them (the only advantageous favor Mother Nature provided for the day), cookies, icees, and the Square Grouper were secured.

Once again, the team gathered and shared their exploits. Cookies and icees were passed around as well as a joke or two, but everyone’s attention and imagination were captured by the wind and the inevitability of the 7-Mile Bridge.

Typically, the stretch from the shoals after Vaca Cut to East Sister Rock Island is an afterthought. Never memorable; mostly transactional. Paddles hit the water; water is pushed; boats move. Unfortunately, this particular stretch on this particular day 5 proved to be less than transactional. The winds picked up as did the waves and chop. The progress was slow and arduous which led to dampened spirits by the time the team slowly made their way to Sombrero Beach for lunch.

Beaten and tired, the paddlers hit the beach at Sombrero and the question of the hour was asked: “Do we attempt to cross the 7-Mile Bridge?”

As the team finished lunch, a decision was made with the team’s safety in mind - there would be no 7-Mile Bridge crossing, and worse yet there would be no Molasses. To add insult to injury, the team next had to strip their boats of gear and carry the boats across the beach, through the boardwalk, and out to the street to load them on the few available cars. In total, the process of relocating the boats to Bahia Honda State Park took just over 3 hours.

Very much in Castaway fashion a good time was had despite the extra effort. Whether paddlers were at Bahia Honda baked in the sun, or they were loitering in the Sombrero Beach parking lot the paddlers found levity in both companionship and at the bottle of a few beer cans.

The day ended at St. Columba Church where hot showers, soft beds, and Suzy’s delicious home-cooking met the team. Sitting around the dinner table sharing a meal and a few laughs reinforced why the Castaways have persisted these 25 years, a testament to OB’s vision of lighting a candle.

After dinner, some of the paddlers found necessary respite in their cots while others found comfort sitting in the church’s deluxe golf cart in the driving rain while watching the closing innings of the Orioles game.

A Rookie’s Perspective
By John “Double Fault” Del Rossi

As a rookie paddler on the Castaways Against Cancer trip from Miami to Key West, I had no idea what to expect. Day 1 was a mix of excitement and nerves. Launching with the crew, I was filled with pride but also thinking, “Just don’t fall in front of everyone!” The week ahead was unknown, but I knew it would challenge me in ways I hadn’t imagined.

Each day brought its share of highs and lows. The paddling was tough, especially during long, hot stretches across open water. But moments like gliding through the peaceful mangroves, being cheered on by a boat party, and even earning a nickname from a joke gone wrong made the experience unforgettable. The crew was full of energy, keeping spirits up with jokes and camaraderie, which made pushing through the pain a little easier.

By the time we reached Key West, I was physically exhausted but filled with pride. Seeing my family on the shore, cheering me on, was an emotional high point. This trip wasn’t just about kayaking 160 miles—it was about perseverance, bonding with an incredible crew, and being part of a mission that mattered. I’ll carry these memories with me forever.

Day 6: June 13th
By Paul “the Machine” Kumer

Those staying at the Abbey made sure to wake up with plenty of time to clean up the sleeping area and put away the bedding, towels, and take out the trash. What the team didn’t want to do was abuse the goodwill of the congregation at St. Columba and especially Suzy. Hopefully, we did right by the congregation because we would love to be welcomed back.

From the Abbey, the team gathered at Bahia Honda State Park to prepare for the day’s paddling. However, once the team reached their boats the realization that alternate plans would need to be made hit them. With the winds gusting again, the call was made to not cross the Bahia Honda Bridge, especially since many were questioning whether the boats could even launch from shore with the surf conditions. Before boats were once again stripped and strapped to cars, St. Columba Rev. Canon Debra Maconaughey led the day’s prayer.

The plan for the first part of the day was to transport boats to Big Pine and launch from the new kayak launch sites. From Big Pine, the team slowly made their way past Picnic Island and then Monkey Island before arriving at Tarpon Creek. Once at Tarpon Creek, the team made their way to the S-Bend to celebrate the day’s work and take care of some long-overdue Castaway business. The pressing item on the agenda was baptizing new paddler John Del Rossi. With the evocation of Odin, John was officially brought into the Castaway fold donning his new identity: Double Fault.

Though the day was shortened - mileage-wise - the team still made their way to Sugarloaf Lodge just after 5 pm beating the brewing storm.

Day 7: June 14th
By Eric “Vino” Pino

For the first time since I started paddling in 2008, we had a delayed landing time scheduled for Key West - 4 o'clock. This allowed the team to sleep in and leisurely sip their coffees instead of rushing through them. We packed our usual provisions and Gatorade for the shortest day of the trip. Everyone was excited to reunite with their families and celebrate with the over 100 people waiting for us in Key West.

We gathered on the sand by the floating dock where Patrick Linfors led us in a morning prayer, reminding us of our purpose for paddling. We appropriately took a picture with the In Honor Banner before each paddler headed to their boats. At 8:15, we set off in our kayaks.

6 days behind us, and only a few hours to go sets me up into a reflective state for the 1st hour of the paddle. Why do I paddle? Did we properly honor? How’d the trip go? Is the team content? Highs? Lows? I’d like to paddle in the moment but every year I find myself going through the same reflections.

My thoughts were interrupted by Rainman’s playlist, played at a modest volume, as the team formed into groups of 3-4 kayaks and paddled through the bayside shallows. Though early on we didn't see much sea life, the overcast sky promised a potential for action, such as turtles, sharks, dolphins, and rays, typical for Day 7. Leaving the shallows, a pod of five dolphins danced around our kayaks, providing a spectacular show.

After the show, we took our standard first break, extending it to “kill” the extra two hours due to our delayed landing. The FWC joined us as they had for the past six days, guiding us for the rest of the day. Military planes flew overhead as we passed Boca Chica military base, a familiar but always thrilling sight.

Approaching Key West, we saw the Special Forces base off in the distance which marked the location of our last stop at Castaway Bar. The paddle to this sacred stop would take us about two hours. Conversations about the rookie naming ritual from Tarpon Creek the day before were the hot topic. Every good ritual has great banter the next day.

As we approached the Special Forces, I took a minute to FaceTime my parents to thank them for supporting me over my 15 years of doing this. So much of the success of the Castaways comes from so many good people, like my parents, at home making it possible. I hung up, just in time to soak in our arrival at Castaway Bar which is about 15 feet from the Special Forces shore, situated among a bunch of broken concrete poles, a white sand patch, and about 30 minutes from our final landing spot. It's not much, but it's definitely ours (at least for 60 minutes). The team sat in a circle, except Roger who sat in his kayak (butt in the cockpit and legs crossed over the deck), and laughs were had, people (OB) were picked on, and all opened up their Ice Mules and ate/drank whatever was left. In between the laughs and mockery, there are moments of honesty, vulnerability, and appreciation. One of the moments that stuck out to me was when a CAC stood up and rifted on the idea that “we are all going through things and this trip touches people on so many different levels”.

We got our stuff together as we debated when we needed to leave. Spirits were high as a kite as we stumbled towards our final landing. Singing, laughing, excitement…The paddlers were fashionably late (we pride ourselves on being on time) and we approached the shore at 4:15. Jaime, who took the mantel from Patrick last year, paddled to the front of the formation with Sebastian next to him. They sounded the horns, silenced the crowd, and Jaime introduced the team for our final approach. The Hyatt employees lined the pear to the left with instruments and the dock to the right was loaded with over 100 CAC supporters ringing bells and hollering.

Patrick’s and OB’s tandem, the Red October, landed first in respect of their 25 years of commitment, with OB flying the Conch Republic colors. The rest of the team followed, and Evan Lemus cannonballed into the kayak fleet, flipping his dad. The atmosphere was electric with hugs, kisses, and high-fives all around.

Word spread quickly that the runners were on the way in (they had been sitting at their own Castaway Bar as they waited for the paddlers to arrive). Paddlers took their team photo and the crown formed a tunnel for the runners to run through. At 4:27, 4 Relay runners combined for 85 miles, Vince who ran his own 85 miles, and Andrea who ran with both groups ran hyping up the crowd (and some had beers in hand). The crowd hyped up again.

We settled everyone down as the Mayor of Monroe County and the Mayor of Key West presented the team with a Proclamation and a commemorative coin acknowledging our great work over the years. The ladies did a great job of playing off the crowd.

Now we waited for the cyclists but they came through like they promised, at 5:00 we got word the cyclists were coming in hot. Boom, around the corner, can a mini peloton of cancer fighters. The same fervor that the paddlers and runners experienced sparked when they turned the corner. Finally the full team - landlubbers, paddlers, runners, and cyclists all in the same place! 25 years of this culminated beautifully on Simonton Beach. You could feel it was more than just celebrating this year's tour, it was a celebration of OB’s original vision. The beach portion of the celebration was wrapped up with a few words of inspiration from the Captain and a bunch of bottles of champagne sprayed all over everyone.

Salud!

Closing Ceremony:

At 6:30 the team gathered on the beautiful dock at the Hyatt. Floral shirts and summer dresses were the vibe. We had different plans for this year's Flower Ceremony. Over the years this ceremony has matured. In year 1, the paddlers had all the names of the people they paddled for listed on their shirts. We quickly transitioned to reading out the names of all those loved ones. As the list grew over a thousand, we began to give each Castaway time on the mic to talk about the people they paddle for. In more recent years we began allowing the supporters gathered to take the floor and share why they support. The list naturally continued to grow but so too did the team. With over 50 Castaways on the dock and another 75 supporters, we decided to have 4 Castaways take the floor as representatives of their “group” (Paddlers, Cyclists, Runners, Landlubbers). As Patrick took the mic to welcome those gathered he called everyone's attention to the beautiful sunset that was taking place just behind them. A perfect backdrop for what turned out to be a perfect evening.

Patrick, as he always does, set the tone of why this moment is the “why” of our mission. Patrick, a veteran of 25 years, has witnessed so many emotional moments as the team collectively celebrates our loved ones. He introduced Suzy Curry who represented the paddlers. Chiquita is our resident badass and cancer survivor. She shared thoughts that each paddler had shared with her about why they each paddler. She went out of her way to speak with each person and grasp their “whys”. Next up was Erik Stabenau. He always seems so composed and reflective. He reflected beautifully. Next, a rookie Castway took the mic. Gaston Sanchez addressed those gathered. It’s always interesting to hear the perspectives of someone new to the team. Lastly, Peggy Plumadore spoke from a perspective of nearly 10 years with the team. She’s always sat right by the Paddlers for 7 days as we make our way down. It would only be fitting to have OB close out the evening with some remarks on his mother and how this organization has grown beyond his wildest imagination. His emotion and appreciation were palpable. Eric closed out the meeting by calling up all the little ones on the dock. 20 or so kids scampered up and he spoke about them being the next generation of Castaways and how hopefully it’s all more manageable by that time. He invited everyone to approach the In Honor Banner place their tea lights around it and look for the names of their loved ones. The sunset continued to grace us with its deep oranges and yellows for this perfect moment.

Papa’s Pilar

As the Castaway slogan goes, “Honor. Fight. Celebrate.” the team transitioned from a somber reflective moment to one where we can celebrate all the names on that banner and the accomplishments our team had done over the year–raising over $330,000 before the match. Papas Pilar is an epic host. Perfect scene for the CAC. Music, open bar, distillery, food for millions, and amazing company. The place was packed! Rum-n-coke, here. Rum Old fashioned, there. Cheers were being heard all around. Throughout the room, you can see little groups being formed where stories were being shared from over the past 160/170 miles. Cyclist sharing with Runners and Paddlers with Cyclist and all the combinations in between. Captain Pino called the room to attention with Omar “Ponyboy” at his side. The paddlers had decided it was time to honor supporters (not needing to be Castaways) with a certificate of recognition and perhaps a nickname or 2. This ceremony is reserved for suppo Peggy Plumadore was dubbed “Last Call” which her reaction let you know absolutely loved. Joe, “the Clipper” after his love for the Yankees and attentiveness to the team. Mercy Sellek will forever be referred to as “Chef” as a sign of respect from all Castaways for her service to the team in many facets. This is an ode to the popular show “The Bear”. Gene & Diane Expedition Linfors were also called up to recognize them for their service to the team as faithful road crew. Lisa & Danny Plumadore were applauded for their efforts over the years. They’ve supported in a myriad of ways like laundry, food, and logistics. (Carter Burruss received his certificate on Elliot Key that included “his band of misfits”). The above ceremony was stumbled through as Pino seemed exhausted and as if he might have partaken in the Old Fashioned-ing and Rum-n-Cokeing. The crowd cheered for all and the newly named supporters went back with smiles on their faces. As the evening came to a close, a crew of about 15-20 ambitious Castaways made their way to Duval, but you won’t find anyone interested in Trip Reporting that portion of the evening!

In Closing:

25 years! $2.5 million raised. Thousands of cancer fighters were honored! What a ride. I feel like the community around the Castaways understood the importance of 25 years. Beach namings, mayors in Miami and Key West, CCHS Hall of Fame induction for the organization, Boat raft-ups in our honor, and record-breaking fundraising were some of the notable highlights from this year's celebratory journey to Key West. We are a team of 35 men and women paddling, cycling, and running to Key West supported by a plethora of Landlubbers but we have 24 years of Castways who came before us to make this possible. The first 4 kicked us off and so many people in between them and us allowed us to grow, build relationships, create a culture, and laid a foundation for all the celebrations around this year's tour. So cheers to Chadio, Pilon, Jefe, El Toro, Cameo, The Dutchman, Dave, and so many others who contributed to the Castaways being so successful.

• To check out the Cyclist Trip Report click here and here for the Runner’s Report.