Now in the midst of its second monthly training session, from now through Feb. 20, the 15-member crew, which includes Punahou School student Mark Towill, is sailing its Transpac 52 on two 138-nautical mile overnight voyages around Moloka'i.

Based at the Waikiki Yacht Club, the young sailors are under the supervision of sailing manager Robbie Haines and navigator Stan Honey for the first trip, but will be on their own for the second circuit, which will take place Feb.19 to 20.

A highlight of this second of four training sessions will be the Opening Day ceremonies of the Waikiki Yacht Club on Feb. 17. The Morning Light team will meet with their hosts led by WYC Commodore Mark Hazlett.

Stan Thornton, chairman of the Opening Day committee, said, "Morning Light also will be participating in the Opening Day blessing of the fleet, the cruise to Honolulu Harbor and the regatta following. Our membership will not only be able to meet and get to know these fine young sailors but race against them as well."

The twin goals of the Morning Light project are to prepare and send a young team from diverse backgrounds in a major ocean race and to produce a documentary film of the entire experience. The film is being produced by Roy E. Disney's Pacific High Productions in association with Disney Studios and is scheduled for theater release early next year.

For more on Morning Light, see The Advertiser's Jan. 28 story on the crew and the film project, which includes video of the crew's boat at sea and Towill.