Jester challenge
Sarahjames
Thu 18 May 2006 23:25
For me the “Jester Challenge” is probably, due to my age 50 at time of the
event, the last chance for that great adventure of testing one self against
the elements and my own resolve and resourcefulness.
The Jester challenge is a test of man and boat against the elements in the
true style of a Corinthian yachtsman in that the single handed sailor has to
rely on his own mental strength and fortitude on his own for about three
weeks out of sight of land facing all the elements and difficulties that the
sea can produce in a crossing of approximately 3500 miles each way.
My boat, Jacinta, designed in 1956 is not, as such, an “A” class ocean going
boat but is without doubt a capable sea going cruiser and more than able in
crossing the Atlantic so the test is can I match my boats capability.
I started sailing at age 14 completing RYA dinghy certificates (The Helmsman
Cert) and having joined the regular forces raced regularly represented my
corp. as a junior solider in dinghy races. I am a member of the Army Sailing
Association.
I have recently completed my “Day Skipper” shore based course and practical
element of the “day certificate” and ICC.
The qualified miles in crossing the Atlantic will qualify the practical
requirements of the “Yacht master Ocean” certificate and the complete
certificate will be gained with a further shore based course.
My boat, Jacinta, has undergone the upgrading of a new mast and running
rigging and new sails have been ordered for the event. The mast and rigging
will undergo sea trails through the months of November and December. In
January the boat was lifted from the water and a full inspection and any
work required completed to upgrade the hull and substructure for the
crossing.
Through March and April longer single handed sea trials, than those already
completed the last being a three day sail along the south coast, were
completed of approximately 500 miles. A time used to iron out any kinks in
the systems implemented and to fine tune any of the planning features for a
long single handed event.
I have funded from my own resources and will continue to do so the
preparation costs and of course the loss of income due from being away from
work, although this is not a great concern as my business will continue in
my absence. An amount of £4,000 being spent on the new mast and rigging, my
insurance company, Norwich Union, coming to the aid of the majority of this
cost.
A satellite phone has been installed on the boat so you can contact me on
00881631570963 as I cross the Atlantic.
I would like to thank Bussels Chandlery. I get all my gear from them and
without any prompting were so impressed with what the Jester Challenge is
about, and my entry in it, that they donated a XM Ocean Suit to me for the
trip.
Also the lads at Clarks boatyard,GCOMM and Mailasail for their help.
A big thank you to Paul (Sparky) for all the help in fitting the electrics
supplied from JG Technologies
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