Rich, it is the only sure way to break rule number one (just kidding). Solo 
diving is fine. Some situations require it. For  example, Olivier Isler uses it 
as a team will not fit where he is working. We use it for some spots, but it is 
rarely necessary  - usually it is two guys and one waits for the other. He
could 
go get the other guy unstuck, but sending one at a time to see what is past a 
tight spot makes it easier for the first guy to come back in a less didsturbed 
environment and to use the backglow of the waiting guy's light. 

  We get a lot more done as a team. One guy keeps track of the line (usually 
Brent) , one guys bridges the middle (usually Jarrod) and one guy scours the
far 
walls (me). You don't do this deep way back with strokes. I know all I have to 
do is concentrate on looking , they will get me back to the line, and they will 
not leave, and they will always make the right move. 

   When we add line, one of those two has the reel, the other is in the middle 
watching me and the reel man, and he is looking around also. I come up behind , 
surveying, drawing, and taking notes. The middle guy wraps, marks leads, checks 
them, etc. 

   If you had somebody commmitted to your work, that could dive properly,you 
could probably find a good use for him as a team guy . We have a huge number of 
incredibly skilled guys to work with.

    For us, the three man team with matching gear and precedures means massive 
redundency and allows us to go furhter, explore more thoroughly, and do it more 
safely. The opposite philosophy in this sport was demonstrated by the USDCT .  
Nothing got done, and Exley ended up swimming out by himself one day . Many 
dives were aborted due to gear clusters, not knowing where the team members 
were, and just plain not being able to get anywhere on the gas due to the "take 
the kitchen sink" concept.  Also, we have 18 guys who can go the distance -
they 
had one. But the main point is that diving is enhanced by the buddy system, and 
solo diving is a great way to learn your gear.

    
George M. Irvine III
DIR WKPP
1400 SE 11 ST Ft Lauderdale, FL 33316
954-493-6655 FAX 6698
Email gmiiii@in*.co*

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