Dear Readers,

 

Well – this is it!!!

 

A last run ashore last night for dinner which was, unfortunately, interrupted by the passage of a cold front and torrential rain half way through dinner. A matter of little consequence to those diners cosily ensconced inside but for those of us boulvardiers, sitting at the pavement tables it was an unwelcome interruption resulting in an unseemly sprint inside clutching plates of half eaten food half awash with rainwater. However as everyone was in high spirirts it was all taken in stride.

 

We have a new start line just off the breakwater but restricted to half the width of the harbour entrance with no navy ship, no bands or cheering crowds. The port control restrictions, prevent any boats leaving the marina before 1000 and the start - yes ‘start’ not - ‘starts’ is at 1100 – go figure!!! No traffic exclusion zone and 200 boats jockeying for the start in a very small space and then crossing the approximately 400 yard line at 1100!!!

 

Prudence dictates a late start and she should always be listened to!!

 

Forecast is 4-5 increasing to 6 for next few days from the NE with Nly swell which bodes well for a brisk first few days at least.

 

We are as ready as we will ever be and given the level of crew ‘banter’, a word I use advisedly bearing in mind the delicate disposition of some of my more sensitive readers, it is clear that we are in fine fettle and that spirits are high.

 

We will be thinking of you all and knowing that you all of you will be thinking of us will both sustain us and speed us on our way.