Clipper Round the World – Race 1

The past four days has been spent in Puerto Sherry following successful completion of the first Race from Portsmouth to Spain.

Tomorrow we start Race 2, a much longer passage of over 5,200 miles to Punta del Este in Uruguay.

From my own perspective, and also speaking to other team members, there is a healthy degree of apprehension about the next Race.

This will be our first true ocean crossing, and a test of our ability to co-habit as a team of 20 in often difficult circumstances.

Race 1 has given us all confidence. We faced a range of different conditions – downwind sailing under Spinnaker, beating upwind for a number of days, and tacking down the coast of Spain and Portugal, before reaching much lighter winds.

Life at an angle is exhausting. Every movement, above or below deck, takes three times the effort. Sleep is more sporadic, and more difficult with the constant noise going on as sails are trimmed, or waves negotiated.

But despite the challenges the sense of achievement and ability to have fun is always there.

This is a truly unique experience, which brings together a wide range of personalities with a common purpose and a love for adventure.

Race 2 will, I’m sure, bring more of the same.