Well the ARC 2008 has finally come to an end.

The results evening went well with lots of prizes for all and sundry. (the full results should be posted on the ARC website later today) We won a prize for the closest finish, 6 seconds after 3,000 miles. The people of JUJU (the other boat) were not there and a friend of theirs collected the voucher for a free meal for 6 on their (and our behalf, as he got on stage first) and then proceeded to bugger off taking our 4 free meals with him (Cheeky sod! I have some home boys with baseball bats out looking for him).

So How did we do?

7th in our class of 19 on corrected time after engine use and ratings were applied.

3rd of 16 Oysters on corrected time.

54th overall on corrected time out of the 214 boats that started.

It has been a most incredible experience and one that I would not have missed for the world.

It has been a privilege to sail with 3 great guys who have quickly become lifelong friends.

There have been so many highlights it is impossible to recount them all and no lows that I can remember!

The spirit and camaraderie amongst the boats and their crews is almost unique in a world where dog eat dog has become the norm. Problems are overcome and help and assistance is given without asking, experience is shared and tales told, the size and value of a boat is irrelevant.

We have been largely cut off from the troubles that beset the world and my heart goes out to those people that are having to make difficult decisions regarding job cuts, closures and loan repayments and to all those affected by these decisions.

Finally I would just like to thanks to Andrew Bishop and his team at World Cruising Club for all their hard work and commitment. They have taken on a concept first started by Jimmy Cornell and developed it into a slick and professional operation that at the same time retains a family and friends feel. From the time I enrolled Curious at the London boat show in January to last night's prize giving, all who have been involved with Curious's participation have had a great time. We may never get the chance to do another ARC but this one will live long in the memory!

POSTSCRIPT

As expected the guy who collected the closest finish prize came by and gave us the free meals voucher. I never expected any other outcome and would have bet the boat that we would see him sometime today. It says it all really!!!!!!!!!