Trimix Class Report

[MikeFerrara]

Yes but, I believe that GUE uses 21/35 below 120. I think the 30/30 that they use above 120 is what they consider triox.

I also think that the "triox" class is a recreational class that doesn't deal with any staged decompression or multi gas diving?

I think...I do a lot of thinking for some one who doesn't keep up on this...that the rec triox course is basically the first part of tech1?

Are you planning to take any of the GUE tech courses?

 

[PerroneFord]

Over time, I am sure I will take the Tech classes, likely the first two, and the first 2 cave classes. But that is a LOOOONG way off for me. I've got several years of diving to worry about before I make that leap.

I *MIGHT* take the recreational trimix course next year. Assuming my diving is progressing well.

 

[mikiedfd17]

Nice Job Duane! - And I thought you were a hard teacher! I think you are too hard on yourself with it, you didnt, you made it!

That sounds exciting what you did - - - We need to get out and dive, I'm going through compressed air (or nitrox) withdrawl.

 

[moneysavr]

Congrats!

Tri mix is a safe way to dive deep!
Dive safe,
Brad

 

[ppo2_diver]

I don't know if he still is but at one time Greg was also a member of the Ozark Cave Diving Aliance (OCDA) which is one of those die-hard DIR exploration groups. I don't know what they've been up to but he was also involved with a Great Lakes based DIR oriented wreck exploration group...I don't remember the name.

I believe it was called DEEP Midwest. I'm pretty sure shut it down due to the lack of time to work on things. I don't know if he is still a member of OCDA. He said he hasn't been cave diving for a few years.

 

[SDAnderson]

I'll second (or third, whatever) Greg as an excellent tech instructor. I've taken a couple classes with him, including the TDI deep trimix class (same class with Mike Ferrara) and it was quite an experience. The class was intense, fun and challenged me like no other scuba class I've ever taken. Greg was good at pushing when we got lazy and even better at giving students enough lead to learn on their own. We had some difficult situations but I always felt like Greg was in control and had the courage and trust to let us solve most of our own problems without interfering. I highly recommend him as an instructor.

Greg is very DIR without being a fanatic, which is how it (DIR and technical diving) should be. If you're a DIR proponent, you'll be very comfortable with his class. If you aren't a DIR proponent, he presents an opportunity to learn a lot about DIR without having to endure the prosyletizing and rarified air you might expect in a GUE class. Either way, you will learn without being expected to drink the Kool-Aid.

Speaking of rarified air, never mind the graduation present. It's far more important to keep him away from the chili at Molly's. It can add a whole new dimension to long nights spent blending gas...

Mike - off the top of my head, I think standard backgas is: 30/30 to 100ft, 21/35 to 150ft, then the break to hypoxic with 18/45 to 200ft, 15/55 to 250ft, 12/70 to 300 and 10/70 to 400.

 

[tterry1]

Duane,

Congratulations on completing the class. I was diving with Greg the day you did your "audition" dive on the Milwaukee. You guys looked good to go that day, so I'm not surprised you did well in the class.

I agree on Greg being a terrific instructor. I was the third member of the trimix class with Reefraff and Mike Ferrara; Mike is right that if you can get through Greg's mix class, you'll have no problems with DIRF. He does a great job coaching and correcting faults without intimidating or embarrassing.

As to the case of beer you owe him, bear in mind Greg only drinks high quality microbrews. I'm going up to Two Rivers this weekend and will be happy to take care of the delivery for the small fee of, say, half the case. I'm sure he won't mind.

Tom