Race 10 - Day 34
Crew Diary - Race 10, Day 34
23 April

Hi All

I could never keep a secret!

It's Thursday 7 April and I'm woken from a deep sleep at 06:15. Is it really that time already? Feels like the boat is moving again after yesterday's slow progress while stuck in a dreaded windhole.

Up on deck, the Pandas have got the code 2 spinnaker flying, the weather is sunny, we're making 12 knots, and it really is a beautiful day. Everyone is more positive now we're making better progress.

My fellow Penguins and I take over the watch and keep up the pace.

Nobody knows - it's my birthday!

Just after 10:00am I let them in on the secret. Based on UK time it's officially my birthday. A big cheer, congratulations and the usual singing greet my announcement.

It couldn't be a better day. The weather is beautiful sunshine and we are making great progress. By lunchtime the code 2 is down but progress is just as good under headsails, and we're making a better course.

Greeted by a further round of congratulations when the Pandas come back on watch at lunchtime, I then retire to my bed after a great morning.

Back on watch at 19:00, up on deck and get a call to go below (probably the watermaker has gone off again). I get down the steps and most of the crew are assembled and guess what? James is parading a birthday cake, with candles! Kym had baked a chocolate cake whilst I was sleeping after the "missing" sugar was found in one of the day bags. First cake of the trip! A very genuine surprise - tea and cake all round.

Big thanks to; Kym for cooking the cake, Gary for sharing one of his last Kit Kats but especially to Jackie who made my day as she thought I was only in my 50s - should have gone to Specsavers.

Not many people are going to be able to say they celebrated their 65th birthday while racing on a yacht across the Pacific.

One day in my life on the Race of our Lives.