Race 2 - Day 1
Crew Diary - Race 2, Day 1
16 September

And we’re off on Race 2! It’s with mixed emotions that we leave Portimão – the city’s hospitality and warm reception was exceptional and the crew appreciated the stopover to regroup, relax and reflect on Race 1. On our first week at sea, we had a variety of sailing conditions to work through as a team, but that first race also gave us the opportunity to learn what life is like on board. After safety, managing your kit and yourself is of utmost importance.

There was a lot to do in the marina to prepare for the upcoming journey to Punta del Este. A much needed deep clean, maintenance, sail repair (thank you Bettina and Fitz) and victualling for the next 28-34 days at sea. Victualling is a big task and would not have been possible without the help of the entire crew. The amount of food that needs to be purchased and stored can be daunting but, with all hands on deck to pack day bags and fill any available storage lockers, we were able to get it all on board. Phew – more on victualling in future blogs.

Unfortunately, Ellen, Stephen, Cecilia and Stuart will not be continuing on with us to Uruguay for various reasons, and we’re already feeling their absence. We look forward to having Stuart back in Punta del Este and Cecilia rejoining us as soon as she’s able to.

Setting off on this next part of the leg brought about a lot of emotions. I was excited to be setting out to race again with the Dare to Lead team and to be out on the ocean. Seeing the night skies, sunrises, sunsets and wildlife from our unique vantage point takes your breath away. Leaving friends and family knowing we’ll have little to no communications whilst at sea, and the idea of crossing the Atlantic Ocean brought on a lot of nerves, apprehension and anxiety. I wouldn’t have been able to do this journey without everyone’s support. We’ll see what the next few weeks will bring and how I’ll feel when we cross the finish line in Punta del Este – hopefully, on the podium again (wink).

Before I sign off, Graeme would like to wish Amanda a very Happy Anniversary! Congratulations Amanda and Graeme from the entire Dare to Lead team :)