great sailing... and a great cause - Association Vidas
S/Y Pelerin
Colin Speedie & Louise Johnson
Sun 30 Dec 2012 19:30
The current is now with us, sweeping us across to the South American coast. We estimate an arrival in Salvador this coming Friday, all being well, if this wind keeps up. We're storming along at about 7-8 knots at the moment, which for a heavily-laden centreboard boat (who usually doesn't like close-hauled sailing) is pretty good.
Colin has been trying out his bread-making skills, and as could be predicted by anyone who knows how well he cooks, the bread is fantastic... so we have all now found the strength to go, armed with a batch of doorstep sarnies! Ronnie has been chief wildlife spotter, and we were lucky enough to come across some spinner dolphins this afternoon. We're all getting quite tired, but being careful to rest up during our off-watch periods whenever we can. But it's also hard to tear yourself aware from the view, and the sailing, so when you do get a chance to get to your bed, it doesn't take long to fall asleep.
(And we realise we need to send a big thank you to our new friends met recently in Mindello (Nigel, Debbie and Alan on S/Y Keltia) as the chocolate log that professional chef Alan gave us has been going down a storm - we're having to ration portions, as we now only have a few inches left - please send more!)
Finally, not sure if you're aware, but our crew member Ronnie Mackie is trying to raise money for a community health project in Peru, by getting friends/family to sponsor his participation in this Atlantic sail to Brazil. We're really impressed by his money-raising efforts so far (around £600), and those of his daughter Amy who as a professional nurse helped to set up the community clinic supported by Association Vidas, and who is also doing all the sponsorship administration for ronnie. We hope to post further information about Association Vidas and what they are trying to achieve in the next few days, and also let you know how you can donate and spare cash to support this local Peruvian charity. So watch this space.
All the best
Lou, Colin & Ronnie xx