Busy day on the water and all went well – good training day! Wind in the 20’s again with seas not quite so big. Headed to the west end at very high speed with the chute up – 20+ knots, which gave us a long upwind to get back. Saw a Mod-70 trimaran coming in – the big boats are gathering. After the crew debrief last night, changed a few things around with good results.

As we didn’t break anything, and the boat is in great racing condition (excellent prep work Brad!), we got home for a swim before 5 – luxury.

Debrief followed by BBQ at the main house tonight, and much needed relaxation and rest before we do the same tomorrow.

Think I’m wearing my gloves out?

Today we had big breeze, big waves, and a big spider… The consensus was a tarantula, although it could have been a small dog, chicken, or mongoose. The Australian contingent kept well clear, and with their experience of dangerous creatures, the rest of the crew followed suit.

Out on the water we ran through the basics to make sure halyards pulled sails up, and winches were uncomfy to sit on, etc. Didn’t spend too long on the water as big seas without full crew wasn’t going to accomplish much. The rest of the crew arrived this afternoon, so now we have a full complement – representing USA, Canada, Bermuda, Australia, Italy, Spain. Next up a solid week of training before the race start. Boat is looking good!

Only a few weeks now until the crew arrive for this year’s edition of the Caribbean 600, run by the Royal Ocean Racing Club. The boat has been in Antigua for some time now, and will be itching to be launched. First up is a solid week of practice and tuning up – not just for this event, but to set us up for the years’s programme – RORC600; Les Voiles de St. Barth; Newport-Bermuda Ocean race; and finishing up the year with the Sydney-Hobart.