Homeward Bound

The Fastnet Rock lived up to expectations - damp and misty. Once again we
have rounded the famous lighthouse in both the dark and rain. So no photo
opportunity - will just have to try again in 2015!

The past 18 hours have been fairly hectic. As we approached the Rock the
wind backed enough for us to fly the A3 reaching spinnaker. But anticpating
the weather front coming through we changed to the Jib Top, and then again
to the Heavy No 3 Jib as the wind increased. Then we had the fun a trying
to weave our way amongst our competitors as we tacked to Pantaenius. To our
joy it looked as though our route south at the Scillies had paid off as we
were rounding with the lead pack. So no sleep for either of us last night.

The reach home across the Celtic Sea has given us the chance to for some
sleep. The Jib Top is flying and holding our pace at almost 9kts, even
against some boats that have hoisted Spinnakers. However the wind has now
backed slightly and the kites are back in their bags. We are trying to stay
high on our course to give us the option to hoist kite and free off toward
the southern shores of the Scilly Isles. Then change to the A2 for a run to
the finish - it is at this stage that concetration is key with many a place
won and lost on the final leg.

And finally a quick word of praise for our third crew member - Trevor. I
understand that Trev is providing a running commentary on the Blog. Cheers,
Mate!