Crew Blog

A close shave

03 May 2008

The race to the yet to be disclosed finish line on the way to Panama is heating up in terms of distance between the leading boats as well as on deck temperatures since an additional clipper known as Clipper 11 surfaced on Uniquely Singapore Clipper.

The current race is so close (known in the sailing world as closed shave racing) that with the help of Clipper 11, two crew members decided to improve their aerodynamic qualities as well as reduced their body weight somewhat.

Barry Eales who normally sports a ‘crew cut’ already had let his usual hairstyle slip over recent weeks but refocused on his usual look today in order to display determination and willpower to the rest of the crew.

He was joined by fellow crew member Koh Kok Siong in this undertaking this lunchtime.

Under the skillful hands of Marlena Kniestedt, Clipper 11 was charged up and in a matter of a few minutes the deed was done.

No apparent injuries were sustained.

The effect this had on the boat’s position became apparent only hours later when Hull & Humber was caught up and sighted on the horizon. Unconfirmed rumours are circulating around the boat now that Skipper Mark Preedy will also go for the new crew cut hairstyle should his boat reach a podium position in this race.

It will definitely be a close shave.

Jurgen Wygrala