Race 4 - Day 4
Crew Diary - Race 4 Day 4: Fremantle to Sydney
06 December

Patrick Hayes
Patrick Hayes
Team Dare To Lead
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Hi all,

Trust you are all well as our epic adventure continues.

Fremantle was a great stopover and yet another part of Australia I hadn't visited before. I met up with some old friends from the previous race. They gave me the full tour of Perth and we took Sello along for the ride. It must be unbelievable what the boy is experiencing. However as his confidence builds, he has become very cheeky.

As you are aware the boats have had forestay failures that we had to strengthen at sea. Back in the dock they needed fixing, deja vu the maintenance team were like, "Find Paddy, he can help us fix the boats." 2 days later my arms are like tensile steel... my saving grace, only 11 boats.

My thoughts turn back to just under 4 years ago when the boats had to divert into Hong Kong with the same problems. I asked Sir Robin if they had been rectified since. He assured me they had and told me what the experts recommended; a repair less than the standard compared to what we had achieved. Yet another in depth conversation about experts and knowledge. Outcome: leave it to the troops on the ground to decide, gut instinct rarely fails you.

A quick mention for all the maintenance boys and in fact all the Clipper Race staff from every department for outstanding achievement on dealing with both the loss of a boat and very sadly that of a fellow crew member, thank you one and all.

So onto today and once more the enjoyment of witnessing the majesty of the sea in all her beauty although at 4am. It doesn't always appear that welcome with a wave down the back of your neck, our highlight this morning the sight of 8 whales. We worked out that they must have been on a school trip.

Finally to the most intriguing part of this journey, crew members, they come in all shapes and sizes from all over the world and never fail to disappoint. Some friends for life others acquaintances and some never to be seen again.

If this damn boat race has taught me anything it must be patience. Before I ever started I had none and now I have a little, tested this week by my bunk mate who did ask if she could use essential oil. After I anti backed our bunk, I later advised her the only essential oil on any boat was either engine or gearbox possibly, olive for the heads.

George and Martha love always xx

Jack, Jamie, Jonah you be good boys especially for your mummy. I have very good news for you - on a starlit night, we can see all the reindeer practising for Christmas.