Race 10 - Day 24
Crew Diary - Race 10 Day 24: Seattle to Panama
24 May
Finding Liverpool
Here on Nasdaq, we're making our way towards Panama. We've passed through light winds, squalls, and hot temperatures. The squalls were pretty enjoyable for most people at first but now the wet clothes mean that the humidity below deck can become quite uncomfortable. It does mean everyone has been able to have a good wash even if they didn't want one. We're also making our best speed this whole leg... after the race... when we're supposed to be staying close to Liverpool 2018... darn. It's funny how these things work out but the wind is blowing in our favour towards Panama and the crew are loving it. It's champagne sailing and everyone has a childish grin on their face as they steer us towards the canal. The course is good and the speed is good but that seems to be the problem. We're supposed to be staying close to Liverpool 2018 and unfortunately they are a little bit slower because of localized conditions. Our attempts at slowing the boat down seem to have increased our speed. I wish I was joking but it has been the source of some frustration and amusement for the past two days... why can't we go slower.
Life on board is different from what it has been before with the crew finding the occasional moment to pick up a book or find a new way to kill time. One of the latest time killers has been trying to fit as many boobies onto a boat hook. The boat record is four, not including Nasduq, and I'm very proud to be the defending champion. The birds have made our bowsprit their home and I'm sure it will be a bit of a struggle to get rid of them in Panama.
Other activities include boat maintenance, brew making, practical jokes, and pub quizzes. Graham had a very interesting quiz which tested our knowledge on information from prior legs. Unfortunately his rules were a little confusing and everyone ended up a winner (I think). Some people onboard have been frustrated with the situation and the hot and stuffy living conditions but the overall mood is quite good. Race 10 is over but our journey is ongoing. People are spending more time on deck with the opposite watch talking about what they plan on doing in Panama, their hobbies, and life stories. It's also great to see the whole boat come up on deck and eat lunch and dinner together during the watch change. Throw in a nice sunset at dinner and it'll even put a smile on old man Speighty's face. We had a wonderful chocolate cake treat today for Damien's birthday. Our Aussie man tried to keep it quiet but John W. was ahead of the game preparing the cake overnight. I'm sure he has enjoyed his birthday helm today with these fantastic conditions. It's not long now until Panama and although the past few days have been enjoyable it will be nice to have a nice meal and beer onshore.
P.S. Thank you to all the people who have donated to my UNICEF. I appreciate your support both for me and the charity itself. I look forward to seeing everyone soon.
Hi to the friends and family and former crew mates. I miss you guys and look forward to seeing most of you in the future. I hope you feel better Sev and enjoy yourself.