Everywhere I have been, the hater cops give me the complementary body cavity search with an electron microscope.
They always want to see USCG approved PFDs for the quantity matching the rated maximum occupants for my hull, a throwable Type IV device, a fire extinguisher, a sound producing device, and a red flag. Each time, the PFDs were inspected for the USCG stamp.
Granted, my lost vest was not a Lifeline, but it was a nice properly fitting ski vest. I make sure that my entire family (and friends) has a properly fitting USCG approved ski vest in addition to those stupid (required) orange things.
Bottom line, I was compliant with USCG regulations and the rules of the event. And, anybody who was there remembers that I was driving safe and was mindful of my surroundings. Anyway, my goal was to introduce my daughter to boating and enjoy our time together, not scare her and place her in harm's way by driving like an idiot.
Contrary to popular belief, mechanical injection can have very good part-throttle drivability as does mine. Someone posted elsewhere, "...your foot controls the speed." It shouldn't matter if I have my current setup or a poser Mr. Gasket scoop on a 2-barrel carb on top of a peanut-port Pick-a-Part motor.
That was still the best day of my life!
