Persephone of London GBR8287 - Fastnet day 4 0850 BST
Persephone... Cruiser/Racer
Nigel & Karen Goodhew...
Wed 14 Aug 2013 07:55
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If there is one word to describe yesterday
evening... it is "dark".
The afternoon all went to plan - the wind continued
to back, the sun stayed out and we were reaching along in 10-12 knots, pointing
at the rock with great determination, and of course, great speed.
The wind did die off for a short time, and went
round to the south - so we quickly got the kite up and continued on our way. I
was slightly concerned, as a 6knot southerly wasn't in any of our forecasts...
and it would essentially mean that we had long overshot our 'westing' on Monday
evening.
However, the southerly soon shifted back to the
south west (on forecast) and built... bringing with it dark clouds,
rainfall and gusts of 15-17 knots. At around 1900, we were discussing on deck
how to take the kite down, and more importantly when to do it. We were quick,
8.5 knots-ish and very under control. However, a few minutes later our decision
was made for us, as a gust blew the head out of our kite. DAMN. Our moods
'darkened' somewhat - but only after we were back on track with our genoa up. It
wasn't a lot slower, but it was a bit. The breeze continued to build
and we peeled down to the smaller jib for a 20 knot beam reach into the
rock.
We rounded at 0512 this morning. It was DARK.
Nothing like Monday's clear evening skies. We couldn't even see the loom of the
Fastnet lighthouse until we were within 1.5 miles of it. The fog was thick and
at times it was a struggle to see even the top of our own rig! Every time I
come to Ireland (or near to it), I am reminded why I should never return...the
rain. Its absolutely soaking... unbelievably heavy but also very very thin. It's
like sailing through a cold steam room.
Having rounded the rock, and began our escape from
Ireland, the skies have already brightened. We've been followed by dolphins
and we are sailing with the fleet in the usual procession back to home and the
beer tent... about 125-135 COG and around 8.0kts SOG.
We must not switch off! We are tired but we must
not fall into the trap of thinking our tactical endeavours are over. Gains still
to be made.. I hope
Tim
Persephone GBR8287
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