NOT quitting the race after 9 months...
When your body aches and you have one too many genuine muscular complaints.
When the thought of emptying the bilges and associated smells is too much.
When you have to abseil and up into your bunk and adjust the angle before attempting to sleep.
When you’re cooking for a crew of 21 in a space the size of your wardrobe, but one that moves.
When you’re down to your last pair of clean, dry pants on day 28 with 500 miles still to go.
When you’ve just hoisted the Code 1 before realising Hannah asked for the Code 2 spinnaker.
When tempers flare and crew’s comments cut deep.
When you awake to find your mattress and sleeping bag soaking wet from a leaky stanchion.
When you’re trying to empty your bowels the moment they tack.
You get back on the boat and continue on...
Because you notice you’re much fitter, leaner and stronger.
Because less water on board means a faster, more competitive boat.
Because you’ve grown to love the gentle lull and sound of water rushing past as you drift off to sleep.
Because the satisfaction that comes from Bob’s compliment of ‘nailing the custard to perfection.’
Because you’ve never enjoyed that first hot shower as much as when you arrive into port.
Because you respect and admire your Skipper and don’t question her authority.
Because your crew have also picked you up when low and made you laugh through tough times.
Because you know the awesome maintenance guys – yes you Martin – will fix any problems ASAP.
Because it makes you appreciate a flushing toilet on land is LUXURY!