Well a much better start today – we were in the same post code as the start line. Bit up a hurry as we tested the BR0 and FR0 sails, pinged the line and then got sails up as the 5 minute sequence got going.

Up the first beat, picking our way through the fleet of yachts, and then bang – jib sheet parted. Quick tack and we sorted that out. Bang – jib tack went. A few minutes lost as we set up a “handy billy” purchase to replace the exploded blocks. Lots of islands went by, spinnakers went up, and down, and eventually we headed back to the start area with Donald driving at the top speed of the day (14 knots). The other Cookson 50, Kuka, crossed the line just ahead of us. Back to the dock to offload the broken bits, head to the chandlery to buy new bits, and then to the champagne bar to celebrate a 2nd place.

another day to tomorrow…

 

First day of the regatta – at the boat 3 hours before the start to finish a couple of small projects, and head out to the racecourse with plenty of time to test a couple of the legs and confirm the sail selections.

We were the third class to start and headed out on our 29 mile race round a variety of islands and rocks. Soon we were getting water across the deck as we bucked the choppy waves. Up went the chute and down the course we sped. Gybe followed gybe, and after an hour and a half we rounded the furthest island and started to thread our way back to Gustavia. The scenery has a similarity with Sardinia – very pretty.

The final leg to the finish was under chute at 20 knots – spray everywhere. After the finish, back to the dock and the regatta champagne and rum bar – all good. Third place for the day – all good, though second was in sight – never satisfied I guess. Now 15 sailors heading to the main house for the debrief followed by refreshments and dinner.

Two days of offloading equipment and spares, ticking off boat jobs, and packing race sails, and we are ready to go yachting as the Australians would say. Tomorrow is a full day of practice with the entire crew, who have finally all arrived. Then race 1 on Monday.