The Trans Pac race has been a blast so far on Dorade. Working our way up wind and offshore for the first three days, as the wind started to clock around the kite was hoisted and has been up ever since. Finally the shorts and T shirts are on and everything has dried out on board after a very wet start.
The weather has been pretty kind to us and we are great full for such a fast exit from the coast. Looking at the tracker and weather the Thursday starters have had it would seem that the cards have fallen in our favor for moment. It’s been a good battle out here with the fleet and the positions have been changing frequently. The Lapworth 50 “westward” has been in our sights for most of the race and although she has been ahead of us for the duration of the race we finally have her just behind us. Fortunately she gives us time anyway, but she has given us something to focus on and we have been determined to catch her. Other racers are close by and occasionally at night we might just get to see a blinking light on the horizon.
So far Dorade is holding up well with no breakages yet and I am sure she is very happy to be sailing off the wind now. All the creaking and groaning of an old wooden boat have stopped and sleeping bellow is very pleasant so we are all well rested and enjoying the race.
Last night as we enjoyed a glass of wine and some hors d’oreuves owner Matt Brook really looked like he was enjoying himself. As the sched’s rolled in this morning we were happy with the news that all our hard work and concentration had paid off and we are placed first in class and fleet. Now we have the mammoth task of trying to hold onto it for the rest of the race, I doubt this is possible without a few position changes but it should be clear to all what we are pushing for. It’s still a long way and should be treated carefully, any major breakages now and it’s game over!
Thanks to all the followers on twitter and face book, its great to know people are following us and the rest of the race. Fingers crossed for more fair winds, no breakages and as always safety first!
Ben