Fast Exit II

Transpac Yacht Race

Molokai Channel between Molokai and Oahu, Hawaii

I have a passion for distance races, especially the Transpac Race that takes place every other year from Los Angeles to Honolulu. The race covers 2,225 nautical miles and I'm fortunate to have a team of photographers who capture the starts over three different days in Los Angeles and a week of finishes in Honolulu. As the competitors pass Catalina Island, I'm the last person they see, and the first person they see when they enter the Molokai Channel (during daylight hours). Intercepting the boats in my favorite 'fresh to frightening' conditions in the Molokai Channel, which is approximately 25-35 miles from the Diamond Head finish, requires a lot of logistics. This photo of Fast Exit II was taken in the late afternoon, about 25 miles from the finish after the boat had sailed over 2,200 miles. Coordinating and timing to intercept the competitors in my favorite zone is an adrenaline-pumping experience. Spotting the boats and directing the pilot out into the open sea is always a thrill, and our helicopter maneuvers capture their amazing achievement. This is one of my favorite photos from the 2023 Transpac. The boat in the picture is simply stunning, with its vibrant colors racing through the brilliant blue water and powering through the challenging waves in one of my favorite offshore areas. I call this "Fresh to Frightening.”

Canon R5, Canon RF100-300 2.8L, 400, 5.0 , 1/3200