When you find yourself working on the bow in sub-zero temperatures, in force 7 conditions, amidst some of the most severe weather the UK has endured in recent years, you can either go one of two way’s – quit or carry on. Last weekend, I was faced with this challenge and I made the choice to carry on. Overcoming so many challenges – the cold, the wind, de-icing the boat, and in fact just getting to the boat! I sailed the Beast from the East.
4 months from today, I will be on-board Garmin. Lining up with 10 other identical boats on the start line of Clipper Race Leg 8, ready to race the North Atlantic to the UK. This moment has been over 2 years in the making, and a lifetime of dreaming. And with it so close to reality, I have been working hard to make sure I am fit, healthy and prepared.
Here I am, with salt in my hair. Exhausted. Frozen to the core. But what a fantastic weekend! I was aboard a Jeannau 35, called Spitfire for a weekend of sailing. The aim of the weekend: to continue to build miles and experience. It turned out to be a jolly jaunt down the coast to Ramsgate, followed by a force 7 bucking bronco ride back.
Continue reading Sailing In A Force 7. Chatham – Ramsgate And Back
