Race 13 - Day 2
Crew Diary - Derry-Londonderry to Liverpool
23 July
Sophia blog 23th July
Leg 8 Race 13 / Homecoming and Glory one / Derry - Liverpool
832 nm away (first time without any higher numbers, look so short)
second day on sea only 700 ish to go
So I raced half round the world in total 22.401 nm (included current 832nm) on my legs 3,4,7+8
Dear family, friends & supporters,
I know why I have chosen the leg 8. The mighty Atlantic didn't really disappointed me. No stormy days, just high waves but cold and tough. Our trip to Newfoundland was very cold and can compare with my experiences on the Southern Ocean. There I managed some southern bluster, the cold days and nights and all the emotions with five broken rips. It made me stronger – mentally and physically. I'm happy that I came back on leg 7 and 8. Feeling good, more powerful, see massive improvements in my sailing skills, understand my crew mates better. How I know? They make jokes together with me or about me and we are laughing together. You have to manage so many things. Hurry up when after wake up call, realise which daytime we have, is it time for breakfast- lunch-supper? Which clothes should I wear now? Should I finish preparing before eating or better just before go on deck? Where is my hat? (some things disappear- be not afraid it's still on the boat, you will find it back, latest after a deep clean or in the lost and found section). The place on this pinky tub is so tight that you hear so many times “Please can I pass, will come back in a minute”. Just when you try to write a block and you find a place in a corner, someone will pass you after a few minutes. There is no really private room. That's reality and not important for me.
And NO Spam any more -my apologies for this!
I'm sure I will missed all this (except cleaning bilges and heads) when I'm back home.
But more essential “Enjoying time”. I spent a lovely time in Derry. Lot's of friendly people, really enthusiastic, the fantastic nature and a great maritime festival. I will come back and spent more days on this island. Even ten days are much too short. I felt very tired on the begin of the race and first time a bit seasick. I think one hour under deck for wooling the code 1 was too much. It's also the first time that we can race close to a coastline. We see the other boats and realise that's the anticipated tight race but we are in fourth place. We doing very well and go for more. On the end of this day Susan suggested a nice sunset and I went on deck to enjoy this spectacle. Especially pleasant after a grey day!
I'm on my race to the final destination LIVERPOOL. I'm living my dream since two years. Signed in for leg 3,4, 7 and 8 (half round the world), passed the training levels, crew allocation, made my coastal skipper exam (now also passed the VHF radio course- thanks goes to Nick Sheard), left company and job and finally started into the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race. I'm happy with my way of life, grateful for the opportunity to do this and the marvellous experience I did so far.
Many thanks for all support I got from my family (I love you), friends and crew mates. I'm looking forward to see you in Liverpool.
Written by Sophia
Remember to “Think Pink”
P.S. I'm fundraising money for www.sunshine4kids.de
You will find more information on my FB account Sophia Clipper Liverpool 2018 or on there web page.
Sophia OUT