Race 6 - Day 10
Skipper Report
15 January

Yesterday was one of those tedious days sailing - back and forth zig zagging against current and wind and going nowhere. Today has been the complete opposite. Gorgeous conditions under spinnaker, going fast in almost the right direction. The bit in between ... lightning storm, thunder, big winds, howling rain with mammoth droplets (never felt anything like it!) ... yes, that was all very exciting - we actually enjoyed it just to be moving fast despite the conditions.

Very sorry to hear that some of Qingdao’s electrical equipment was affected during the last electrical storm and glad all are OK onboard. The lightning was very dramatic and very close - it went on for a couple of hours like someone turning the lights on and off constantly. Like stuff from the movies.

So, we have arranged another close one for all you supporters. This last bit is SO nerve racking. Constantly looking over our shoulder and hoping we don't make any mistakes. Let's hope it works out, but I think either way we have had such a fantastic time on this race, and on Leg 4, the All-Australian Leg. The team has been fantastic and I'm going to miss all our leggers so much when they leave. Lots of them - when puking over the side - were saying "never again" ... but sailing is one of those funny things. I bet when they get home, and wait a few months and look back on this adventure it will tickle a nerve inside them and they will be dreaming of more before too long. Well we shall see...

Think positive thoughts guys!

Sailing with style - Nik