Crew Blog

Back where we belong

26 April 2008

Our trip to California was unfortunately a whirlwind one, lasting little more than 36 hours, during which we not only had to work through a large list of jobs on the boat but also had to do laundry and buy fresh food for the trip to Panama. Despite the lack of time, we did our best to sample the local food and drink and catch up with the other crews. The yacht club did us proud, from the reception on our arrival to the goody bag they provided on our departure, and most of us left with the firm desire to return one day with enough time to do the area justice.

We crossed the US/Mexican border a few hours ago, and are sailing downwind under clear starlit skies. Although the Californian temperatures were lower than we expected (especially after being spoiled on Hawaii), we can feel it warming up, and some brave souls have already broken out the shorts. No doubt we will be complaining about the heat in a few days!

The last six weeks have involved a lot of hard work and uncertainty about where, when and how we would return to the race so, despite the lack of a break in Santa Cruz, it’s a great feeling to be back where we belong, racing with the fleet. It’s also a testimony to the Durban spirit that the entire crew has remained faithful to the boat and nobody yielded to the strong temptation of remaining longer in California. We’re looking forward to a fast, fun and successful sail to Panama and a few days on shore there before the unique experience of passing through the Canal.

Claire