Crew Blog

Finished!

14 February 2008

Well, we have finally finished Race 6. After trying all night to cross the finish line, time finally ran out at 00:00 UT with a few miles to go. Our finish position was 32 33.280 N 123 29.841.

We are delighted with our podium position but I am much happier with the fact that we have managed to sail this very difficult race and come out at the finish with no injuries to the crew. Although I have been reminded that Liz’s bruises do actually matter. We have had a few breakages, mainly to ropes – five yankee sheets, one staysail halyard and reef 2. But on the whole, that is to be expected on a tough upwind leg like we have just had. All the sails and the boat itself are still in good shape. The way in which the crew have adapted and coped with the difficult conditions has been magnificent.

From a race point of view, we were never able to find an opportunity to make any big gains by exploiting the weather - and so it has been more of a case of grinding out the result. Attention to detail for helming, and everyone helms on Durban 2010 and Beyond, trim and preservation of boat and crew have been the way in which we have approached this race.

Congratulations to Duggie and the crew of New York for their well deserved victory. Well done to Hannah and the Glasgow: Scotland with style crew - we had a great last couple of days racing head-to-head against you. Congratulations to all the other boats as well for completing this arduous race successfully. Special congratulations to Jamaica who pulled out an impressive lead at the beginning of the race and held onto it for all but the last few days. Well done everyone.

Thank yous to the technical team, media crew and race office who were able to support us throughout the race. It couldn’t be done without the excellent shore support we are provided with.

We have a minor technical problem with the engine but once we get it started we shall be making best speed towards Qingdao and some well deserved rest, recuperation and relaxation.

Happy Valentines Day all…

Ricky and the crew of
Durban, 2010 and Beyond…