Race 6 - Day 21
Crew Diary - Race 6 Day 21
12 February
Well what can I say? The race is finishing much like it started, all the fleet lined up in a row with no wind and WTC next to us, taunting as we inch forward. Tantalisingly close to Subic Bay, everyone has started dreaming of hitting the bar, and then the shower. As much good as a saltwater scrub does, not being able to lather up does take all the fun out of washing your hair, as does the salty crunch when you lay down in your bunk. The tell tale signs of land have been making the last few days interesting at least...yesterday a pigeon landed next to Jorge on the helm and scared the bejeezus out of him. The same pigeon later relieved himself on the deck and scampered off when we had a series of kite disasters. I think a few crew members were slightly jealous of him as they packed the spinnaker for the 4th time.
Today we’ve had around 7 local fishing boats come up alongside, trying to sell us their catch of the day. As tempting as it was, the feeling onboard is tense our game faces are on. And I mean REALLY on. The crew on deck are constantly trimming, navigating around fishing buoys and checking the AIS to see who’s hot on our heels. The crew below deck however, are taking part in the most competitive backgammon tournament known to man. Records have been broken, legends have been made. Friendships are hanging by the tiniest of threads.
With Valentine’s day just round the corner, everyone has really been feeling the love out at sea. This morning I caught Ed shaving Richards beard with the utmost care off the back of the boat. Our sail locker too, has been transformed with fairy lights into a very comfy, if not very mouldy, love nest. Purely for shanghai-ing people into love themed interviews I promise as I said, our game faces are on. Barry set a new record, gradually falling asleep on the sails during his interview – and Jorge’s rendition of ‘what is love? Baby don’t hurt me’ was enough to bring out the inner romantic in anybody.
That’s all from me, see you in Subic!
- C