The first two days

After 48 hours, it seems as though we are only just settling into the
routine of this game. Our plan was to take it easy for the first three
days, recognising that neither of us is very fit. Nor have we had much sea
time together on Jangada since the Round Britain & Ireland Race. But Mother
Nature had other ideas and through a fresh wind and beat for the first leg
to the Lizard.

We have focussed on our own routing, taking very little notice of where our
competitors are heading. Mainly due to a reluctance to spend any time at
the Nav table when it is bouncing all over the place.

After a cautious start to avoid any swingeing pentalties for early starters,
we managed to pull away at good speed toward the Eddystone. Tacking soon
after rounding the lighthouse we headed north and inshore to avoid the foul
tide in the shelter of Falmouth Bay.

As we approached the Lizard, the wind shift to the north as expected. We
had intended to pass to the north of the Scillies, but instead just followed
the wind making best speed along the course and hence south of Bishops Rock.

As the wind eased and cycled around to the East we made the most of a
spinnaker run. Then as the wind started to build and veer towards the South
East we made the decision to miss out on an evolution by not peeling to the
reaching kite, and going instead straight to the Jib Top. This turned out
to be a great move and allowed us to relax for the first time and enjoy our
venison with a reasonable flat surface to sit on. The Jib Top is similar to
our normal headsail except that it is cut for reaching conditions and looks
like it might be a powerfull member of our wardrobe.

The sign that we are at last getting our sea legs, is that I can spend an
hour at the chart table. And that cramp that I feel in my belly is no
longer a desire to retch over the side, but to fill my stomach with M&S all
butter flapjack. Sorry Trev, but I've just eaten half the bucket!

Richard