CARRICK
Allan K Dobson
Thu 24 Nov 2011 14:51
 
As some readers already know, our ARC is over.
 
 Some 265 miles out Allden got a message to call home to be told that his dad, Tom, had died suddenly of I ha heart attack. We turned around immediately and after 2 and 1/2 days of upwind motoring got to Marina del Sur in south Tenerife, where we presently are. Allden has a flight home tomorrow. 
 
Tom was a lovely man and will be hugely missed not just by his family but by all who knew him. I have sailed with Tom and Mary, Allden's mum, and know what a close family Allden has.
 
Allden has endured the awfulness of the situation over the past few days with immense courage and fortitude. I am at a loss to describe just what an exceptional young man he is and what a tribute he is to his Dad and Mum.
 
Not sure what Carrick will be doing now. Possibly head for Antigua in January if crew available, otherwise, maybe ARC 2012 - too soon to say.
 
"Sunset and the evening star and one clear call for me..............................................."
 
That’s all folks.