Hello Team

How are we this teasing Tuesday, a good solid start to the week your end? This end the wind has veered and is now ‘teasing’ us as to how close we are to the VM Infante Llorca, but veering is making us bear more and more away from the mark, so although the miles are decreasing so is the VMG, (Velocity Made Good).

We finished the Dell Latitude Rugged Ocean Sprint in the middle of the night (our end), we think we did a respectable time, but unlikely to gain any points. At the moment we are trotting along under the Code 2 with 16kts of true wind, its sunny, but a fair cloud covering, a mixture of low level cumulus, together with high level cirrocumulus. The sea state is moderate with a slight flowing swell. Last night under the full super moon, it was cloudless, and just an amazing night to be on deck. Although there was a slight chill in the air (especially on deck.)

As we nearly reach the furthest point north for this race, the last 2 nights have definitely seen a drop in temperature. As you pass crew sleeping in their bunks, there is a noticeable lack of the background hum of electric fans, sleeping bags have been pulled from long term shortage and are being used for the first time on this leg. There is an outbreak of long trousers being worn, and I have to admit that I donned my lightweight Musto fleece for being on deck in the early hours.

With just under 500nm to the finish line to go, the normal closing stage conversations start. “When will we be in?” When, we get there clearly. “I am really looking forward to a good shower.” Yes I think we would all agree on that one! I am awaiting with interest the last weather forecast, as the last few have indicated particularly light winds to the west of Luzon, which has the potential for a large wind shadow to the west from any easterly winds, yes you guessed it, the current true wind direction is varying between 090 – 110°T.

This has been a long race and it’s not over for us, for a few days yet. The crew have decided to play the Stealth Mode option, as we near the mark, in case there are any last minute tactics to play out on the based on the latest forecast. However as I have said before, sometimes playing stealth just stops you having to share the pain ;-)

Hopefully tomorrow we will have rounded the mark and be heading towards Subic Bay and that shower we all aboard Seattle are looking forward to and need! Going to sign off now, guess what? The TIMEZERO is showing a mass of AIS for the long line fishing nets – right across our path.

I don’t trust stairs. They are always up to something.

That's all for now,

Dave & Number 1