Race 2 - Day 24
Crew Diary - Race 2, Day 24
09 October

James Anderson
James Anderson
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CV 20 9th Oct 2019 James Anderson

Eventful. Our races to date in one word. Learning to work together, address the challenges of the necessary small running repairs. As the sail repair on board, I’ve been busy with a number of small fixes. A stitch in time saves nine is (apparently) originally a nautical expression, and I can see why. Anything that stops a long tear in a spinnaker is a good thing.

More importantly, as a team, we have learnt to live together, laugh together and share the special moments that happen on board.

Spectacular sunsets, pixie dust lights escaping the back of the boat in the dark, dolphins.

Getting a hoist just right. Spotting something that helps someone else.

Who knew that learning to live together well would be the biggest bit. At least the duties rotate so there is always something new the next day.

Watching everyone improve their skills handling the boat, helming, winching and on sails ropes as well has come on in leaps and bounds.

Losing five of our companions will be hard as we finish Leg 1. Some will return on later legs. The others we need to persuade to find the opportunity to rejoin us later in the race.

Gaining new friends will be great – at least there will be some new stories and jokes.

Most of us find the night watches the most peaceful and time to reflect and chat about all sorts.

Today, we have had our first proper rain, full foulies in the tropics. A novel experience and barring a short shower in the doldrums, the first most of us have seen since London.

London seems a lifetime away and in many ways it is. We are all enriched and looking forward to sharing with our friends and families when we have the chance. I know I am looking forward to seeing my wife Jane in Capetown for my 50th, and with my son George in Fremantle.

Roll on the Southern Ocean!