We are over 3,000nm in, with 2,000 miles left to go. This is momentous for us. The Roaring Forties have lived up to their elemental expectations; bitter cold Antarctic winds, subzero temperatures, consistent wind above 30 knots, and spectacular surfing.
We are existing on a precarious equilibrium of excitement and exhaustion, as the waves roar and crash over our starboard side, relentless in their sheer force and consistency. We have stayed down around 45 degrees south since the 24 November, making us the most southerly boat of the fleet for the majority of the race. Remaining just one degree off our ice limiting latitude and boy does it feel it. The racing on this leg has been impressive, the fleet is growing ever more competitive, and we are yet to have a day without a boat close enough to be on our AIS (Qingdao, we see you hot on our tail…).
Today feels the beginning of a change, the wind has started to decrease, and soon it will veer north. This will be a turning point, particularly as we have been able to sail direct east and fast on these winds for several days now. The crew are doing impressively, our watch-leaders Ed and Sue must get a mention for the enormous amount of work they have put in ensuring opportunities avail for everyone to helm, and that time down below to warm up is rationed equally.
The team has been helming, trimming, performing evolutions and working together in every aspect of life; helping put on the many layers and zip drysuits, or jumping on helm when someone becomes too cold, to making hot delicious meals to keep us fuelled. Lots of hugs and back pats are exchanged, as we all recognise the effort being put in by one another. Some of the crew love it, and some will probably never return to these latitudes again, but right now we are here, pushing on, achieving something none of us will ever forget. If you are at home and would like to support us out here, please follow our link below to our just giving page and donate liberally x
Love and thanks to everyone at home, we think about you guys a lot and appreciate all your support!
Laura, Dan and UNICEF troopers