This will be race 10, the first of 2 races in Leg 7. Crew changeover day was April 24. The next day, I went sailing for the day, acting as crew and sailing coach for the guests of our corporate sponsor. It was a great way to re-familiarize myself with the Clipper 70. There was a gentle breeze, so not too strenuous, and quite a lot of fun. It was hilarious to see 2 lightweight young ladies try to "sweat" the mainsail up the mast.
That evening the Leg 7 crew got together for dinner. Already, we are gelling into a hard working and supportive team with lots of fun loving spirit.
I spent the next day with new crew joiners packing dry bags with 2 days worth of food in each. All the labels came off the cans (they get soggy and gooey or fall off the cans which then become unidentifiable). We've written the contents onto the cans with Sharpie marker - sure hope it lasts. We packed 29 bags. More than we will need, I hope!!
John and Mike put the clean covers on the galley bench cushions.
Today I helped situate the food bags under the floor boards of the boat. Each bag is numbered and we will use them in sequence. There is a 10- day meal plan rotation planned.
Craig working on the "lifelines".
Many other tasks were completed as well, including rig check and maintenance, re-tying new safety lines, checking lifejackets, putting clean mattress covers on, preping sleeping bunks, sail repairs...
Yes, I took a selfie in front of the original Starbucks.
I also did a little bit of shopping. I bought a little personal fan with a USB plug. I understand it will be pretty hot as we approach the doldrums and go through the Panama canals and this is a recommended price of kit. We'll see how well it works. I have a low tech back up...
Low tech cooling device.
My roommate and soon-to-be watch mate, Jill, and I enjoyed a steak dinner this evening, along with a lovely glass of wine - our last for a good while. Tomorrow we depart!
