A recalculation of the results based on our completed legs pace showed that without the problem and the two missed legs, for which we received a maximum time penalty, our race time would have been 27 hours 9 minutes.
This would have put us 2nd in RB4, and 15th overall. (Of course, this is a hypothesis and anyone can eliminate their problems in this way!)
Still it left us feeling that despite not having the speed of the 380hp Goldfish and some of the twin-engined race boats in our class, we weren't that far away given the mix of weather...
We didn't have a support crew or sponsors, so a few thanks are due to people and companies who helped:
Scorpion. A great boat and very capable in the seas. I didn't open the tool box all the way round and Ben and Jamie were quick to help us with a power socket and a few loose screws in Scotland.
A credit to the company that nothing broke nor needed attention. We'd also like like to thank Joy for looking after all our needs so well and Graham for his wise advice and commitment to high standards.
A credit to the company that nothing broke nor needed attention. We'd also like like to thank Joy for looking after all our needs so well and Graham for his wise advice and commitment to high standards.
E P Barrus. We didn't buy our motor from E P Barrus but Mike Williams and Mark provided us with full support and advice. It was Mike who told us to look for the alternator/water pump belt when we broke down in the Irish Sea.
They didn't have an answer for the frothing oil, but they think there may be a special oil product which doesn't froth...
They didn't have an answer for the frothing oil, but they think there may be a special oil product which doesn't froth...
Henri Lloyd. We paid for our clothes/bags but felt they were very good. The Shadow Smocks with rubber necks, cuffs and waist, combined with the salopettes, worked very well in all the conditions we faced.
As we were carrying most of our clothes on board we particularly liked the waterproof bags.
As we were carrying most of our clothes on board we particularly liked the waterproof bags.
Ullman Seats. Roger and I finished the race in good shape. I'm not sure that would have been the case without suspension seating. While I wouldn't describe our Ullman seats as comfortable, the combination of shock absorbing seats and toe straps worked well. I would use them again.
The Race Organisers. I am still not sure how Mike Lloyd's organisation works, but it is obviously an enormous project to pull off. We had particular help from John Moore, the Scrutineers, and the race office team under Annie Beakhurst.
And last but not least, our webmaster, Paul Rodgers, who competed against me in in the 1978 Round Britain Sailing Race. Paul managed to keep the information flowing - even after my Blackberry stopped working.
- Gavin, July 1st
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