This will be my last blog of this race edition. Like the crew going through their six day watch cycle who will have cooked dinner for the last time, emptied the bilges, written the log... we are beating upwind along the west coast of Ireland, so I am typing at an angle, feet against the walls of the yacht, facing aft with my torso correcting for the pitch of the yacht as we sail through the waves. Despite this discomfort, I am enjoying it and feeling sentimental.
We are currently in second place, with about five miles between us and third. There was a lot of focus on the leading three yachts in port with their weight losing strategies and trimming rituals, but it may not be their race after all as UNICEF etches a 40 mile lead with 600 miles to go. The wind has been light and localised so we have tried to capitalise on our luck and stay positive when becalmed. Who knew the winds along the west coast of Ireland could be this light?
In Oban we had a fantastic Our Isles And Oceans Ceilidh, thank you Dior for organising, where about two thirds of the team turn up with their families and friends. There were many people to reconnect with and certain people remind you of the months at sea together, like waypoints in your memories.
Since we are not just racing but living together, learning each other's behaviours, it paves way for a unique team culture. I am very happy and proud to have been on board with such a kind group of smelly people.
Tom, Max and the OIAOians.