ASHORE IN CAPE TOWN

23rd April, 2001
The Southern Ocean - been there, done that, never again' - I'm wearing the t-shirt! My pain has been legitimised: x-rays show five broken ribs, three displaced and two other fractures. With the leg to La Rochelle starting in 18 days, people are asking me 'will you be ready?' and 'how long will it take to mend?' With the Skipper listening, I have to say 'of course I'll be ready...' and 'two weeks', hiding the fact that my fingers are crossed behind my back on both hands. Frankly, I have to rest up now and give these ribs a chance to heal while all around me seem to be going on safari. I haven't raced this far around the world to give up my berth without being forced into it.

Sydney to Cape Town was the hardest leg of the race. In daylight, after our night-time arrival, it was obvious that there were more sailors with injuries than after any other leg. The yachts suffered too. Before Leg 1 start last September, we had wondered how long the large satellite domes on the stern of each yacht would last and it was this, the second of our forays into the Southern Ocean where Veritas literally lost its white dome to the wind and waves. Other Sat-C domes suffered damage and five yachts lost that particular communication facility. Another yacht incurred 2 penalty points for losing a headsail over the side. During a sail change in rough weather, if part of a sail hits the water, six people pulling with all their might can fail to haul the dead weight back in.

For the moment, the memories of such disasters can be put to one side and the BT Global Challenge yachts are now moored alongside each other facing the formidable sight of Table Mountain. The Isle of Man arrived in Cape Town in 7th position giving a tie 7th place overall in the fleet of twelve while unstoppable LG Flatron not only won the leg but maintain a commanding lead over the fleet overall. Crew members of the Isle of Man are enjoying Cape Town hospitality, staying with some marvellous host families. Ribs-willing, this crew member will be on the yacht when we leave for La Rochelle on Sunday, 13th May. In the meantime, fellow crew members are looking out for me. At a welcome party the other night, one put a 'hug me gently' sticker on my back. I had such a great time, I'm thinking of wearing one permanently!

           Jan Giffen in Zeekoevlei, Cape Town

Whilst in Cape Town, I made a visit to a township school in NYANGA ....please follow the link!

Guestbook updated? Yes / Legs 1-2 updated? Yes / Legs 3-4 updated? Yes / Legs 5-7 updated? Yes


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