Race 2 - Day 25
Crew Diary - Race 2, Day 25
10 October
Week four of the race commenced with fickle winds that required many headsail changes. During one eight-hour period, we changed spinnakers five times. Each change involves dropping the sail through the stairway into the narrow passages, that surrounds the Galley/Saloon area. Given that the largest of these sails is approximately the size of a tennis court, one can imagine the problems that can be created when the Mother watch is also preparing a meal to feed a hungry crew. This was made even more fraught as at one point two spinnakers were dropped within minutes of each other as the wind changed rapidly.
Fortunately, on each occasion, the wind has been relatively benign and we were able to pack the sails ready for redeployment without too many problems, on each drop the crew is 'polishing' their technique that will be required when the conditions will be less friendly on future legs.
As each day passes, we are nibbling away the miles to the finish line, the apprehension builds as the weather Gods play games with our progress and position in the fleet. We are all hoping that the sacrifice we each made to Neptune as we crossed the equator will be sufficient to allow us to hold on to the hard-earned third place we have enjoyed so far.
As ever, food is a constant topic of conversation, the diminishing supplies requiring Mothers to be more and more creative to feed their ever-hungry crew mates. We have dined on 'Ha Long Bay, Viet Nam' pizzas and 'Bolivian Bean Medley', created and served with a smile. Mealtimes stimulate discussion of the food and we hope to enjoy on our arrival in Uruguay - succulent steaks accompanied by fresh crisp salads and a glass of wine.
Without a doubt Race 2 has posed many new challenges that we had not experienced during Race 1. We have all expanded our sailing and seamanship knowledge under the expert guidance of Josh and Hugo, who have endless patience.
To our many supporters, please keep your fingers crossed for us as, again, we trickle in the of lightest zephyrs towards the finish.
