19 Jun Celebration in the Lerwick Boating Club

A very jolly time was had by all on Monday evening, thanks to the Plymouth Gin which was flowing, and the hospitality of The Lerwick Boating Club whilst England beat Tunisia in the opening round of the World Cup, which added to the ‘Bonhomie’. One of the joys of the RB&I and why sailors enter the Race time and time again is the commarardie in the Stopovers.

The only boats missing from the party were CARIBERIA and HISSY FIT who had left earlier on Leg 4 to Lowestoft and WIND of LORNE who were sheltering in Castlebay as another severe gale force 9 wind raged. THE EDGE left at their appointed time however due to the strength of wind their gib wrapped around a foil and shredded so it was decided to return to the shelter of Lerwick harbour and wait for the wind to abate later in the day on Tuesday. SUENOS decided to delay her start and wait for the storm to abate so was able to join in the fun.

After the arrivals of the Multihulls JACKDAW led in the Momohulls on Sunday evening. The fleet endured very light winds during their passage around the south the of
Shetland during which time MAGIC MOMENTS decided to retire.

BARE NECESSITIES – Bruce Sutherland and JULIETTE – Jerry Freeman, both of whom have competed in the race many times, retired in Castlebay due to time constraints.

Vianney Searle – Assistant Race Director