Rolex Fastnet 2017: Sunday Morning Prep

1,781 views  |   August 7th, 2017 

Rolex Fastnet Race 2017

 

Sunday 6 August 2017 – The 2017 Rolex Fastnet Race is about to start. Skipper Ricky CHalmers reports on how the crew of Challenger 3 are getting on with their last minute preparations.

Storm Sails are Rigged

Last minute preparations are being done on and below deck for the Fastnet 2017 race which starts this afternoon at 12:20. Bilges are being sponged out, grey tanks pumped and anything which is not required for our race is being stripped from the boat to save weight. On deck the Trysail and Storm Staysail are being rigged, not because we are expecting storm conditions today but because we are required to pass through the pre start gate with our bright orange sails up. All this activity is being accompanied by the smell of egg and bacon rolls being prepared by today’s “mother duty” chefs, Hilary and Adam.

What will the Wind Do?

The wind forecast promises for an interesting race. Very changeable and varied conditions will keep us on our toes and if we have a repeat of yesterday’s squall when the wind gusted up to 55 knots from a sedate 10 knots within a matter of seconds – accompanied with lashings of heavy rain, we will have an interesting and challenging time.

Getting boat ready for Fastnet 2017

 

Dark and Stormy

Last night the crew enjoyed a few beers and “dark and stormies” in the party atmosphere at the Cowes Yacht Haven, and the two excellent live bands soon had the crew on the dance floor. This morning we all have our race faces on and are looking forward to an exciting and challenging time on the water for the next five days, and the party waiting for us in Plymouth !

Ricky (Skipper Challenger 3)

Posted by: First Class Sailing

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