One Man, One Boat, 4000 Miles!!!

Tropic 4 Cancer Trans Atlantic challenge is an expedition to sail single-handed 4000 miles across the Atlantic, from the western seaboard of Africa to Antigua. The route follows a defined course along the Tropic of Cancer, which is a circle of latitude running around the Earth at approximately 23 degrees north, and which marks the most northerly position at which the sun may appear directly overhead. Find Out More

Day 14 – A Few ‘Thank You’s!

Posted on November 16th, 2013

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A huge thank you to the Yummy Mummy Mafia of Longparish School, who held a cake and tea party yesterday in support of Tropic4Cancer, thus helping to raise funds for Sobell House and Sail 4 Cancer. This typifies the fantastic support that I’ve received from our village. Longparish is an absolute gem of a place, set in the heart of the Test Valley and with all the components of the rural bliss (beautiful houses, lovely countryside, outstanding school and playgroup, church, good pubs, shop, cricket club, etc etc), plus a vibrant and supportive community. Its a truly great place to live. I’m very much looking forward to attending my first meeting of the LBC on my return (Longparish Boys Club – only slightly less scary than the yummy mummies – but perhaps more brewery than bakery!!).

Thank you all again for all the supportive messages. These get passed on to me by Liz in the daily updates from home, and they are great to read.

I’m also getting updates about the Mini Transat Race, which has now started properly after many delay and false starts due to bad weather. They are competing in boats of the same type as Haskapa, and its fascinating to read all about how they’re coping with the sort of conditions I experienced down to the Canaries. Obviously they are racing, so will be pushing much harder that I needed to, and as a result the leaders are absolutely flying along – with huge daily runs. There are also many boats who’ve sustained damage too.

In turn, I’ve been reflecting on how I’m getting on (sorry – it’s an obsession! ). I’m probably only sailing at 50% maximum of the boat’s capabilities, but I’m not racing and also have already broken stuff!! This is much more about the adventure, and achieving the objective of finishing the crossing for the charities. I know that I can push harder, but the consequence of more gear failure could be difficult. So I am continually erring on the side of caution. This means progress is steady rather than spectacular!!

But I am making progress!! I’m now within a degree of latitude to the Tropic of Cancer, and although I’ll continue to drop south, will be endeavouring to stay within a degree either side of the line for as long as the weather lets me!

Otherwise, I’m delighted to report no sign of any rubbish in the areas in which I’ve sailed, but sadly apart from a few flying fish, no other marine life.

Fingers crossed on a good result for England against the All Blacks……..!