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My name is Randy Cole. I’m a musician and former boatbuilder. I built a sailboat that I named Cloudbuster in the 1990s. She’s a 27 foot sloop and it took me over five years to complete. It’s the most creative, non-musical thing I have ever done in my life. She has come back into my possession after I had to let her go about five years ago.
I lost the boat due to financial hardship. I was 61 at the time and waiting to get my Social Security. And I was having some serious health problems due to injuries during my boat work days. Keeping my boat became impossible and I let it go for next to nothing. It was very sad and heartbreaking losing my wonderful creation. I had literally put so much blood, sweat and tears into it.
Then very recently, through a series of coincidences and some serendipity, I met the last owner who offered her back to me. Not having the $2000 she was asking, I started this fundraiser. The initial fundraiser received enough to buy her back, and pay the back boatyard storage fees.
Now I want to share my splendid boat, and restore her beauty and upgrade the systems, gear and safety equipment. My idea is to make Cloudbuster available to those who would never get a chance to experience sailing… to see the wonders of nature upon the water and visit the amazing places only a boat can take you to. This boat is perfect for Puget Sound and nearby Canadian waters.
I want to create a nonprofit, or work with an established organization, to make the sailing experience accessible to underprivileged people of all ages and backgrounds. I want to teach people to sail and navigate.
To prepare Cloudbuster for such service, it will take funding. I’m not a selfish or greedy person, and any donations will be used for this purpose. My personal needs are met… I get my Social Security and medical care now, so this is not for me. I will not use any donations for personal needs. I just want to pay back the generosity I’ve been shown.
Before I lost her, she was equipped with some of the finest gear. But all of that good gear had been stripped off by a previous owner by the time I got her back. Thankfully, the motor and sails are still there; they are the most important gear. I can never afford to replace the items that were removed, and they make a huge difference to the boat’s functionality, safety and comfort. She also needs some cosmetic repairs, which I can do with physical help. It all just takes time money.
This seemingly indestructible boat itself is intact. I built her strong, and she is capable of taking on extreme weather and seas. She has sailed in the Pacific Ocean, and all over the Northwest and Canada. So here’s the link again if you want to help this dream succeed. Whatever you can donate will add up to the restoration of Cloudbuster, and allow her a new life as a community asset. And I’m serious when I say ANYONE is welcome aboard. This boat needs to be crewed. Thanks for your kindly consideration.
With love and respect - Captain Randy
Organizer
