Race 13 - Day 1
Crew Diary - Derry-Londonderry to Liverpool
22 July

Race Day 1 – Richard

I am writing as we motor down the beautiful Loch Foyle pursued by a flotilla of Derry well wishers. Derry/London-Derry has been a delight to visit. The reception we received from the Derry/London-Derry folk has been fantastically welcoming. There is a real sense that the Clipper stopover here is highly valued and makes a real difference. I am pleased to be part of building a stronger positive future for this lovely town and their friendly peoples.

I'd like to wish our host hotel, the Everglades, a special thanks for their great hospitality and reception. I remember the Whiskey Sours especially. A special thanks also to the Culmore Point Punt Sailing Club for a very fine evening of competitive racing in their low freeboard skiffs. Delighted that our follow Nasdaq competitors, RTWs Damo and Andy led the field and recorded a comfortable first place. Looking forward to seeing the winners interview again!

The send off today from the people of Derry was tremendous – thank you all for your hospitality.

Many of us are ready to get back to sailing – the finish of Race 12 seems a long time ago now. We are down three of our Leg 8 Crew; Pam, Kay and Dave who will all be missed. Preparations for the start underway.........more later.....

The line start took place in light and mixed airs, frustratingly for Nasdaq the winds seemed set against us and other boats seemingly leaving us behind even in very similar winds. Maybe we should have engaged in the boat lightening tactics of other boats. As we pass around the headland the fleet is once again becalmed and it looks as if our departure will be as demanding on patience as the arrival.

...Nasduck operation “squeaky clean” was deployed successfully and the fleet has been infiltrated with commando ducks ensuring bilges will be checked thoroughly.