Race 3 - Day 21
Crew Diary - Race 3 Day 21: Cape Town to Fremantle
21 November
Today was a day when the risks of following your dreams, challenging yourself, and taking part in an extreme sport struck the whole Clipper family.
For those who aren't aware or haven't seen the news Simon Speirs, the coxswain from GREAT Britain, tragically lost his life after falling off the bow of GREAT Britain late last night, the news no one ever wants to hear. I know that I can speak on behalf of team Visit Seattle and offer our condolences and thoughts to his family, friends and all those on GREAT Britain going through these tough times. Whilst I never got the chance and pleasure to meet Simon, I still found myself shedding a tear as the news cast a sombre mood over the boat. Whilst we all went into this adventure knowing the risks involved, it still never prepares you for the potential consequences. However to be somebody and achieve goals in life, I am a believer risks need to be taken at times. Simon was obviously one of these people who wanted to make an impact and whist it's only a minor comforting factor at least he passed trying to pursue his dream whilst undertaking something he loved.
The news also made me reflect and think about the risks involved, the potential consequences and the impact this can have on loved ones. I know all us competitors are hugely grateful for the support and backing from them to allow us the chance to follow our dreams. I'm a legger, I'm only doing Leg 3 and have spent most of my time at the pointy end of the boat as a trainee bowman. Whilst any part of the boat can be action packed the bow is known for being more adrenaline filled and over the last few weeks I've experienced several moments causing my heart to race or skip a beat. However, when it comes down to it, this is also part of the enjoyment and excitement the role brings and which many of us grow to love. When I'm next on bow I will take a moment to think about you Simon, not to hinder my role but to hopefully use these thoughts to inspire me to do a better job and as a way for me to personally to celebrate your life.
It's hard to lift the mood on days like this but hugely important for all as we are still racing and powering our big green princess (CV26) to Fremantle. We finished our Ocean Sprint earlier this afternoon quietly confident and hopeful of picking up some points. Freo is fast approaching and we're now down to the crunch end of the leg with all still to play for. We're positioned well (3rd I believe) with some favourable winds over the next 24-48 hours but with the possibility of another wind hole playing a key part in the very last stages of the leg yet again we may find ourselves doing a dance to the wind gods.
Overall this leg has been an incredible experience, challenging in many ways and it's tested me physically, emotionally and socially. We have a great team, a supurb skipper and a team I'm proud to be part of - now I just hope we achieve a finishing position we can all be happy with!
Bring on Fremantle and a well earned beer!