Race 3 - Day 13
Crew Diary - Race 3 Day 13: Cape Town to Fremantle
13 November
Hello all, from the old woman who is still young enough to be living the dream... :)
I think I need to start this blog by categorically stating that NO inanimate objects were harmed in the production of any meals while I was on Mother Watch – irrespective of what Skipper says! Though I would like some stronger winds to ensure that spray is available on deck to rinse the remnants of bread mix and pasta mix that found its way onto the legs of my foulies...
On the subject of wind, where is it?
This leg is billed as the sleigh ride... we are still waiting! We finally managed to fly the Code 1 yesterday for the first time in over a week! For those not in the know that is the largest balloon-like sail which flies out front of the boat. I have it from a reliable source (Simon Sail Maker Supreme) that it is the size of a tennis court, though not sure if that is Singles or a Doubles court ! But alas, this has once again been replaced by the Yankee 1 again this morning and we find ourselves on almost a beam reach again heading to Fremantle and, from the latest schedules received here on board, we are back in 4th place and closing on Chris and his Crocs!
Disappointing winds have not dampened the spirits of the crew here on the GREAT Britain ship. Music can be heard either wafting down from the deck or up from the Galley, both equally accompanied by varying levels of “in tune” sing-alongs to fave tunes. The boat runs on 2 watches, Union and Jack, and each has its 'unique' characters. On Jack watch we have a giggle every watch change to see just how fast Hugh “The Wippet” can get kitted out and up to the helm - I think he has from bed to helm down to about 5 min to 7 min if food is required on route – which for those of you familiar with the pitching of a boat in large swells, is quite remarkable!
Both watches have a Man Mountain – Jack Watch is Johannes and Union Watch have Jeroen. Johannes “Doormouse” has the skill of curing his large frame into any small space on or below deck and power nap at a drop of a hat, but having said that the mere mention of his name he uncurls and is ready for what ever requires the assistance of a Man Mountain – including grinding while still SAT on the floor of the cockpit! Tim “The Commodore” has made a reappearance on this leg and for those of you who had the joy of him on Leg 1, he is still obsessed with wind angle, true and apparent, and is always tinkering with something on deck. We also have Jonathan and Nick who are proving to be keen helmsmen and are both very supportive 2nd helmsmen for those of us get a little more experience of helming in large seas. Pip, well what can I say, keeping us all focused and updated on any movement within the fleet as she monitors all schedules in and out. The last member of Jack Watch is Simon “Light Wind Whisperer” and No1 sail maker – the patience of a saint if you ask me! Apologies to those of you with family and friends of the Union Watch – we are like ships in the night only passing on the companion way coming up or down from watches, but from the laughter we hear below when Union Watch are being put through their paces with Iain's Pub Quiz questions (from a book he bought with him), I assure you that a good time is being had by all :)
Oooh, is that a shout for Code 1 on deck?! Must dash...
Love to you all from the GREAT Britain ship Crew and Skipper,
XOXO