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Fighting for a Place

I have just had the most amazing sail; it started with a jolt as I woke up from a nap and glancing at the instruments caught the distance to Guadeloupe click down to 345NM. I have no idea why but I was compelled to have a look and see what this particular bit of water was like and came on deck to find a stunner. The moon was ahead and shining down our course, stars were doing their thing in and about the clouds and the wind had a cool caress that has been missing for a few days. A cuppa was called for and I kid you not but as I sat down to enjoy it a dolphin popped up to say hello - just magic.

After an hour of enjoying the night I dropped below for a nap which was soon interrupted by the bang and the violent vibrations of a flying fish hitting the deck and struggling to free itself. I know not if it wanted to let me know but looking up as I popped him back in I could see we were about to be overwhelmed by a dark monster of a cloud. Frantic action soon had the spinnaker in its sleeve and only just in time for the rain and wind line hit us with a vengeance. Once that initial angry surge had passed I pulled out the solent jib and we had a wild and wet ride for an hour or so. This happened a couple of times until things settled down enough for the spinnaker again. It was a bit lively with speeds up to seventeen knots and a funny sea way I had to helm and remained doing so for about five hours as the night turned to day.

The wind rose and headed us so it was down to the Code0 and then Barney the monster came out before reverting back to the mast head kite which is now merrily dragging us along at eight to nine knots. It probably seems pretty dry when you read about it but for me it was one of the best sails of this trip for it was varied, exciting and I was kept extremely busy having fun and I love being busy. Especially if it is looking after and getting the best out a thoroughbred like the good ship DMS. We now have 349Nm to go......................all seems settled so I shall grab a nap but before doing so I would like to congratulate Thomas Ruyant on Destination Dunkerque for winning the Class40 division. An outstanding job by a young up and coming sailor who will be one to watch. I look forward to shaking his hand and buying him a beer. In the meantime we have a few scalps to try and collect as we fight for our place in the rankings...

Cheers, Pete