Sailing Logic Blog
Wednesday, 21 October 2009
Nearly There
Apologies for radio silence yesterday! Was out of range whichcombined with slight tiredness and a dislike of the virtual keybaord
on my i-phone have seriously supressed all creativity!
This race is somewhat reminiscent of the 2006 Round Britain and
Ireland Race in that every headland we have gone around the wind has
headed us! We have been slogging away upwind for the last 400 miles!
The good news is that we have now rounded the last island and are on
the homeward leg. We are power reaching at nearly 9 knots towards Malta
(at the moment). But guess what? The wind is due to head us shortly!
Last night was another amazing night. Not only did we improve our
position we had a stunning display from the mediterannean dolphins in
the pitch black moonless night. They were enigmaticly illuminated by
the phospherence as we were becalmed and creeping along at 2 knots.
Some of the time all we could see were the torpedo like streaks below
the surface as there trail was brilliantly lit. Sometimes they would
slow down and swim alongside us, belly up, showing off their supremecy
of the sea. What a wonderful and unexpected display.
Today we should get sunshine, lots of wind and over 20 degrees of
heat. Finally the shorts can come out and we can experience what this
race is meant to be about!
Anyone who wants to do a serious offshore race with a difference this
one is a must. The diversity, rapidly changing conditions and
stunning scenery make this one to remember. I now know why this is
one of the 'classics.'
For now though, please be rest assured we are fighting hard all the
way. I have just heard we are in 3rd place now and a race win is
firmly in our sights!
Sent from my iPhone
Posted by Philippe Falle at 4:38 AM Leave Comment