Our delivery crew of eleven on Cape Breton Island got ready to slip lines. As the Mayor of Gosport passed up the last one, Bobby Currie’s “Clipper Song” played over the speakers. With crew and spectators clapping their hands, I was proud to hear the familiar tune broadcast to so many people. It is becoming well known among the crew – Jan often plays it to drum up some team spirit!
After many trips in and out of Gosport, it was a strange feeing to set out for the actual race. The year of prep time is almost completed, and the journey about to begin. I wonder which part will prove more challenging some days. I’ve settled out of my “land life” routine and my focus has shifted to sailing. Partly I am impatient to go racing, but have been enjoying the festivities leading up to the big day.
Mentally, I feel I am as prepared as I can possibly be going into the experience. You have to be ready to handle any situation, so I did not set specific expectations. I will take each day and situation as it comes, trusting my abilities and experience will carry me through. Physically, I hope my stamina and strength will improve as the race carries on. The first week returning to the boat was challenging, but already I have more energy and strength.
The past week has been a good test. The first part of the delivery took place in favourable wind, at some times no wind! It was a nice break from the busy activities leading up to departure. We stayed in Brighton until a storm blew past, and set out for a two-day trip to the Humber River.
What started as a fantastic downwind sail developed into a Force 10 gale! The wind changed direction, so eventually we had to sail right into the wind and waves. Most crew were seeing these conditions for the first time. The short, choppy seas made for a rough, cold passage for over 16 hours. I’ve sailed in several storms, but found this one especially rough.
On the ocean, waves are further apart, making it easier to steer the boat on a comfortable angle. This was not possible on the English Channel. The waves were spaced closer together, and the direction varied depending on the tide. It made for a rough ride! All crew were wet and cold, but impressively kept good morale.
It proved a challenge to keep food in my stomach while off duty below decks. Beating into waves doesn’t have the best effect on digestion. As a person who does not normally get seasick, I have to say this passage got the better of me for a few hours. It was disheartening, but thankfully the recovery period was quick.
On an exciting note, my fastest speed while helming was 15.9 knots!
The Clipper Race committee were ready to help tie up when we arrived in Grimsby at 4:30am. The Humber region welcomed us with a dinner and reception that evening for crew and supporters. My favourite part of our stay here was a delicious dessert and tea made by the ladies at the Cruising Association – best home cooking since Mom’s when I left home in July!
A multi-faith service with a seafaring theme provided some inspiration to keep determination during the challenges ahead. It was an appropriate lead-in to our journey, and nice to hear support and well wishes for safe passages.
This evening is our final stretch to Hull, home of the Clipper Race start and finish. Only a few days to go!
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