Melbourne to Geelong Race continued: We now only had Shogun V in front and were 200 metres from the gate, Bare foiled all the way up to their stern before the wind dropped off and we slowed to 10knts keeping pace with them. Shogun lifted to squeeze us out of the gate so we tucked in behind comforted by the fact we had the channel to come with cracked sheets. Once through the gate the wind returned, we hardened up to go around number 1 and were amazed as we foiled over the top of them and 2-3 knts quicker.
Once we entered the channel “it was showtime”. With no boats in front to get in our way, we sent The Bare to Geelong and what a ride it was up to pile 10. No screecher required and certainly No Rums Required!! One fisherman anchored just outside the channel nearly dropped his can when we went passed at 20 knts, main hull lifting out and only 5 metres away from him. By the time we rounded pile 10 Shogun was only half way down the channel and it was hard to contain the wry smile on my face.
Up we headed to the finish line, trying to find the 2 boats with a flag on top. Something serious would have to happen now for us not to win; however I did let that smile slip out a few minutes ago which can bring you bad luck. 500 metres from the finish and suddenly someone turned the wind off. Golly gosh I thought (possibly not the exact thoughts), it couldn’t happen to us could it??? The boat sat down with crew scampering to the leeward side. We putted along for a few minutes with Shogun getting larger every second. But without notice it returned and we crossed the line; HOOOOT what a lovely sound it was to hear. 3 hours 35 minutes and 57 seconds we did it! Hugs and kisses all-round (Please note kissing with Libby only) and we all had a can to celebrate while we watched the first few boats finish. We dropped the sails and motored over to the moorings where lunch and a swim were enjoyed.
Some will say we were lucky as the weather suited Bare Essentials and yes maybe there right, but Bare Essentials didn’t sail herself and at times we did push her to the limits. It was a great sail and it was great to sail with a fantastic team and share a memorable moment. Congratulations to Rob, Cruisey and Libby, take a bow and enjoy!
Congratulations to you all, well done!
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