Its been about the golden phone call and the generosity of one Mr. Hammick..
About the slaving for days in preparation..
About a journey with friends, astonished on-lookers and police escorts through Bloem..
About that feeling of -this is really happening- at the first sight of Bella on the water..
About touch-ups, tuning, realignment and preparation sailing in the presence of the Cape Doctor..
About final packing, friends giving up holiday time for much appreciated food rationing and a final meal at Forries..
Its been about butterflies in stomachs, waving well-wishers and ear-splitting start guns..
About sea-sickness, Robben and Dassen Islands disappearing behind you..
Its been about sunsets, dolphins, flying-fish, phosphorescence and a skeleton coast..
ABOUT NIGHT THREE! The exhilaration of mountains lining up behind you, summiting these mountains and seeing Bella's nose floating on air.
About the rush of adrenaline as you plummet down the face of these mountains into the dark water ahead.
Its about 29 knots! Walls of water gushing over her deck and the burning in your arms after grinding Isabel for three hours. And then doing it all over again..
Its been about navigation, decisions and a democracy..
About supportive emails from the vast ground-crew, night-watches, speedos and Dire Straits..
About confined living, boat food and apple shampoo showers..
About a looming second place, no wind, crystal clear water and anxiety... Followed by a sunrise, a fresh northerly breeze and hope.
Its been about family.
Its been about the journey, the challenge, the adventure, the dream..
Its been an unforgettable experience.
But we're not there yet, hold tight! 400 nautical miles to go, look out, will be adding to this list shortly.
Brad
Brad, you're a poet! Ricky good to hear from you too. From the office chicks good luck for the last 2 days. Glad I could help with the updates.
ReplyDeleteYou're doin' good.
Chubby Chick