Crew Blog

We know just how you feel

15 March 2008

I think this was a universal thought among the crew of the BBB when we heard Durban 2010 and Beyond had lost their mast. Fear, shock, disbelief, anger that a race was over, relief no-one was hurt, thanks for the strength and support of team mates and many other thoughts would be present. And there will be more in the days to come as the enormity of what has happened, and what they have achieved, really sinks in. We particularly feel for Durban as Ricky and his team were among the first and certainly most generous in offering support to us. We wish you a fast and safe motor to Hawaii.

On the BBB we are always looking for an excuse to have a bit of fun, so we turned today’s/yesterday’s (or is it tomorrows?) crossing of the international dateline into a bit of a party. Old father time appeared, (wearing something that looked remarkably like King Neptune’s hair and beard), there was some very fancy dress, some games were played (be it known Lou sets impossible charades) and Billy produced a cake iced as a clock. So we sang “Happy Thursday to Us” before we crossed, and again after we crossed. Magically, a bottle of Black Label appeared, and just as quickly disappeared, to the tune of Auld Lang Syne. A very timely celebration before we hit Midway tomorrow, (or is that today or even yesterday).

Reportedly there are some 2 million bird nests on Midway and nearby islands. It’s lovely to have the Albatross back. Smaller than their southern ocean cousins, they are just as great a pleasure to watch as they swoop and soar over the wave tops. I for one find a watch is always very short when there are Albatross to absorb my interest.

Bruce Macky,