Race 3 - Day 20
Crew Diary - Race 3 Day 20: Cape Town to Fremantle
20 November
Our thoughts are with the family and friends of Simon and Andy and the crew of GREAT Britain. We wish them safe and speedy passage to Fremantle.
Last night proved to be a very eventful evening; as Starboard watch managed to hourglass wrap the Code 3 spinnaker. All on deck got introduced to the 'Samurai drop' and then it was all hands to the stern to haul back the Code 3 spinnaker. A few small holes had appeared, which meant a busy night for our sail repairer Neil; he did a fantastic job working right through the night, and this morning our Code 3 is available for service.
The Starboard Watch shift started at 8 o'clock this morning; the sun was bright and the wind gusting at 20 knots with a moderate to rough sea. We were short of helmsmen today as Neil had worked through the night and Steve was busy cooking our breakfast along with his able helper Dan who was getting excited the nearer we get to Australia, as it is his homeland. During the morning, it was champagne sailing weather. We reached speeds of 22 knots down the back of the waves and great progress was made in the last 6 hours to Fremantle. We know have less than 1000 miles to complete and we estimate our window of arrival sometime on Friday - much to the relief of most of the crew.
This has been an extremely arduous leg. I thought Leg 1 was bad for its duration, but the sheer physical demands placed on all crew and the lack of sleep and the cold weather has taken its toll. I have promised my watch many, many drinks on arrival during the arrival weekend in Fremantle and beyond. They have worked tirelessly without complaint and we have gelled and worked as a great team. I'm pleased to say that I'm very proud of them all.
Hi to Mum and Dad, Julie and Harry, I know you must be worrying about me with the recent incidents in this leg. But rest assured, I am well and safe, and we are in capable hands not only with our Skipper, but with the rest of the crew. Much love, will call as soon as I reach land.
-Carl