We rounded Virtual Mark Fastnet in fourth place and are now screaming along on a fast reach towards Virtual Mark Scilly. In three hours from now we will be hoisting our code sails (spinnakers) for the final dash up into the Irish Sea and the finishing line situated 15 nautical miles North of Anglesey.
We are to sprint up the Mersey on Saturday morning, returning to our departure
point in Liverpool which we set off from eleven months ago. For me this is the
completion of my third round the world race with the Clipper Race and it’s one
which I have very much enjoyed from the beginning right through to the end.
Team Unicef have worked hard racing our big blue boat around the globe
and have maintained high standards with a great sense of humour through
adversity in the Great Southern Ocean, phenomenal waves in the North Pacific,
winds from Force 1 to Force 11, freezing temperatures and being slowly cooked
sailing through the tropics. The camaraderie and often selfless support the
team have shown each other has been outstanding. Thank you guys and girls –
it’s been a pleasure to sail with you all.
The Clipper Race team supporting the Skippers and crews are second to none and
the success of the race is due to their expertise diligence and dedication. The
Skippers I have raced against around the world this year have formed a true
"band of brothers and sisters" to be relied upon when the chips
are down and you are in need at sea.
I will finish this race with many new life long friends and many great memories
so to all my old and new friends, thank you for making it a great year and
remember. If you’re not living on the edge, you’re taking up too much room!
Cheers,
Bob