And so we round the final corner at Dover and into the English Channel
with the familiar sound of Solent Coastguard on Channel 16.
A far cry from the heavy seas and strong winds that we have endured to
get here, we are now enjoying champaign sailing. Our initital concern
that the smaller fleet this time around would leave us racing in
splendid isolation. But this could not be farther from the truth - at
one point we could see Suenos, Hikari, Insomnix and Greyhound. Out of
sight but hot on our heels is Zest.
It is great to be back in the familiar area that we sail so frequently.
This race has also left us facing the same decisions that we have
tackled in so many races - how close to the Isle of Wight and Portland
Bill to pick up the sea breezes? Lyme Bay - often notorious for light
winds, but has been used to good effect in some races. Or across the
channel to France - a more radical move, 30nm further that risks
splitting away from the pack and surrendering all the ground made so far?
Whichever tatic we choose, I think it is fair to say that the final 24
hours will offer some exciting and nail biting moments as we close in on
Plymouth.
Dear Jangada Too,
ReplyDeleteCongratulations on a great race. As I type this you are doing 8 knts and 121.9 miles to the finish, the furthest boat south, I hope it's a good decision.
I met Richard in the RORC club house and have kept an eye on your progress.
Have a great end to your race and I look forward to hearing your tales in the clubhouse.
David Geddes
david.geddes@co2target.co.uk
Not much chance of seeing the RTI boats now! You are halfway to St Vaast and a day early. The race seems to have whistled by, though I'm sure it hasn't always seemed that way to you. Now you just have to keep ahead of Zest on corrected time.
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