Dear Readers,

 

A most unusual situation has arisen. Owing to bad weather the Cruising Division start has been delayed until Tuesday. This is only the second time in the history of the ARC that this has happened apparently. A deep low pressure area has formed to the north of the Canaries producing strong SW winds i.e. right on the nose with big short seas from the north i.e. on the beam which would mean a very unpleasant and uncomfortable initial 2/3 days. The low is forecast to move south of the islands and fill by Wednesday being replaced by NE trades of about 15-20 knots which is what we want.

 

The crew, as one would expect, reacted, with a great deal of hopping about from one foot to the other with a flapping of elbows accompanied by clucking noises. However, when I suggested that, if they so wished we could leave today with the racers and take on the the weather and sea forecast, they fell strangely silent and retreated, muttering darkly about Captains Bligh and Ahab.

 

Later, yesterday evening, their spirits were considerably revived by a run ashore.

 

The day has dawned cool, wet and blustery

 

So, another two days to wait. Hopefully not too long to prove true Nelsons view that ‘ports rot ships and men’.