SUCCESSFUL ARRIVAL !!!!!!
Itchycoo
Sat 18 Aug 2018 12:08
Palmas Marina, Gran Caneria (28:07.7N 015:25.6W) around 7.00 p.m yesterday
to find the reception dock (open till 22.00 according to their paperwork)
closed and disappointingly no welcoming party organised. So we left the
boat on the temporary dock and popped ashore for a quick beer. Eight hours
later ................(you know the rest).
Three hungover sailors (Paul being in a comfortable hotel with Andy) then
moved the boat to its temporary new home early this morning. The marina
(largest in the Canaries) is the start point for the ARC and becomes a
hive of activity and people for the next few months as hundreds of sailors
(and hundreds of sailing hitch hikers we're told) make last minute
preparations for their November departure.
The last hours of sailing were some of the best. The goal of every minute
saved meaning extra recreation time meant it was full sail in 18 knots of
wind. We also had a helming competition - fastest helmsmen to get Itchycoo
one mile nearer the waypoint - all timed by Kevin. I'm delighted to report
that the winner was George - the auto pilot - closely followed by our
leader Roger so dignity was retained and the smug face refreshed. I'd like
to be able to say it was close for third but in truth it wasn't.
So, we've done it - mission accomplished - all safe and sound (in fact
more damage has been done to the crew ashore than at sea as the scar on
Kevin's head evidences). An experience of a lifetime for Bob who is not
doing the ARC and a steep learning curve for the others who are sure to
have even bigger highs ahead.
This will be the last blog until November 11th when the main event starts
so I sign off with a tribute to our leader. Roger has a dream and is
following that dream - many people dream but few achieve their dream. He
has worked for months to get this far and stage one has been a deserved
success. Top man.
Bob (your ex blog writer)
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http://blog.mailasail.com/itchycoo