Elisa's Journey - Sea Survival Training

We spent today launching and boarding life rafts to simulate Sea Survival techniques. Full racing gear and inflated life jacket was worn, allowing crew to feel the difference in ability to move. The life jacket is designed to turn you onto your back, so the only swimming technique that worked was backstroke. We towed our “injured crew” across a swimming pool and practiced staying in a group formation.

Climbing into the life raft from the water required allowance for the life jacket – long arms come in handy! One type of life raft had a boarding ramp, which was easy to board in our calm swimming pool. The other life raft had a two foot wall to climb for entry using a rope ladder. Several people needed a boost to get inside. Once settled in the raft, we learned about creating watch systems to maintain the life raft and keep people alive until rescue.

The instructor had over 30 year experience teaching in the Royal Naval Survival School. He provided a knowledgeable and realistic look at safety considerations at sea and types of equipment used.  It was a good experience, and one of those skill sets you hope never to use!

Elisa's Journey - Navigation and Meteorology Course

The past week I attended a shore-based theory course on Navigation and Meteorology. The equivalent level of material was RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Coastal Skipper/ Yachtmaster Theory. I already gained this certification in Australia two years ago, so the course provided an intensive refresher. There were twelve students of varying experience, several at the recommended Day Skipper level. People were not expected to pass all the exams, but were encouraged to take in as much of the material as possible.

After preparing for the course on my own at home, it was great to be in a room with others who were motivated to learn. The level of effort was high, considering we were planning to race across oceans and navigate our way into ports all over the world!

Our teacher, John, was excellent, and managed to include as much of the material as possible in our one week course – even if it meant longer days. We were in class from 08:30 – 18:00, then given homework problems to complete on our own. Three exams were completed over the week, one which required an 80% pass (IRPCS Rules of the Road).

Topics included traditional and modern navigation techniques, applying tidal set and drift, weather patterns, analyzing forecasts, and seamanship. The course was a great review of my previous studies. I gained an even better understanding of the techniques by the end of the week. This should serve as a good lead in to the race, where the knowledge will be put into practice.

One of the most interesting aspects was meeting fellow crew members. Everyone had their own story and different motivations to join a round the world yacht race. After all, they say more people have climbed Mount Everest than sailed around the world!

Many have taken breaks from high level business careers. Others have left their jobs permanently, hoping the race will map out a new direction for their life. Some have taken out mortgages on their homes to cover the race fees. Regardless of the situation, all have made compromises and taken risks.  Common themes discussed among crew members were a search for balance in their lives and a desire to contribute to the world in a meaningful way. The Clipper Race seems to be about more than sailing!

Elisa's Journey - Arrival in Gosport, UK

After checking in to the Spring Garden Guest House, my shore based home in Gosport, the first thing to do was visit the Clipper fleet. For months I looked at graphic images of our beautiful Cape Breton Island Clipper, and had to see it in person! I made my way through the Royal Clarence Yard in anticipation.

Our eagle stood out among the other yachts as I approached the dock. To see the 68 foot hull design right in front of me was incredible! “Here’s my home for the next year,” I thought, and was filled with pride to see Cape Breton Island among racing yachts of the world.

At the Clipper office, I spoke with David Cusworth, recruitment manager, regarding the upcoming Mile for Mile campaign. Back in June 2008, we discussed the potential of using publicity from the race to create awareness of a local charity.

The Cape Breton Cancer Centre stood out in my mind as the most meaningful cause to direct support. David offered to give me a waterproof sleeping bag cover for my trip – in return I’d donate a few nautical miles in his name. An excellent trade-in, and the first to support our campaign (yet to be announced in the media). I thought this was appropriate considering we came up with the fundraising idea during my crew interview.

Elisa's Journey - Departure for Clipper Training in UK

Rows of bright lights stretch a long distance ahead – I’m looking out a plane window along the foggy Halifax runway. The jets fire up, and I am officially returning to the UK for Clipper Race training. After writing only a few lines, we are above the fog bank and Halifax has disappeared.

This journey began 13 months ago when the Clipper 07-08 fleet visited Cape Breton Island. The past year revolved around busy schedules, fundraising, and race preparations – it’s hard to believe the moment has arrived. As I approached the airport security check, Dad said, “See you in a year or so!” The reality finally hit me! I tried to be strong and smile as I gave a last wave goodbye.

Welcome to the Cape Breton Clipper Blog!

Welcome aboard! Over the next year, we will be posting updates on the Cape Breton Clipper, race news, diary entries from crew mate Elisa Jenkins and pertinent information about Cape Breton Island. Please feel free to comment and share your thoughts, as we'd love to hear from you. We hope you'll be cheering with us...

Go Eagle Go!