Patrick Childress . . .
The only reference I've found (and I've been looking) is from "Single Handed Sailing" by Richard Henderson, 2nd edition 1988, published by International Marine. (A division of McGraw Hill). There is an Appendix that list all the solo circumnavigations that the author knew about. It lists Richard Childress, from the USA, who went around alone in 1982 on his Catalina 27 "Juggernaut." His route was east to west via the Panama canal. There is no information concerning upgrades or improvements to the boat. However, in the book itself, the author lists a number of boats he'd consider for a circumnavigation: Valiant 40, Ohlson 38, Contessa 32, Seawind, Ericson 30, Arpege, Vega, Alberg Triton, and last, but not least, the Catalina 27. The Author went on to explain these boats in detail and about the C-27 he said: "Frankly, the Catalina 27 would not be my choice for extended offshore work, but Patrick Childress made a 2 and half year circumnavigation in his "Juggernaut" with very few problems. I am including the boat here because it is quite easy to singlehand, is readily available, and offer more boat fro the money than almost any other I know. Designed by Frank Butler in 1970, the C-27 is an inexpensive craft but one that is attractive looking and sails very well. Advantages fro single handed coastal sailing are a buoyant hull with moderately high freeboard, a fairly long fin keel, swept forefoot, good hull balance, maneuverability, and a simple rig." "Disadvantages include light construction and living spaces better suited to harbor living, and a raked spade rudder that makes the helm a bit quick for singlehanding." He finishes by saying, "The boat can be beefed up and modified, of course." And he goes on to mention some of the modifications that you'll see on various Catalina 27 web sites. Hope that helps. Nick
