Peaked Too Soon

Peaked Too Soon 2010 Post Mortem

2010-08-16T15:25:00.002+01:00

After last year, we all joked it couldn’t get any harder. Don’t ya love it when mother nature turns round and slaps you firmly in the chops for being so silly?

Last year might have been gales, more gales and yet more gales, but in retrospect that was slightly reassuring. You had the wind to make it to tidal gates, and with plenty reefs you could keep going forwards. This year, if you wanted to go forwards you had to grab an oar and make it happen. Anyway, this year’s race:

Oban prologue

Caroline set off with the dinghy to go collect Dave G and Ross after the short dash round Oban. This year we’d upgraded to a dinghy that was actually capable of carrying 3 people at the same time, so we felt a much better prepared bunch. The guys put a good pace down and arrived to the dinghy mid-pack, much better than last year where we deliberately held back and paid the price later, and soon we could spot the dinghy heading our way. How those guys ran so hard in such heat is beyond me.

Oban - Mull

The pace round Oban seemed pretty frantic, and while the boys were laying down the first few miles Dave S and I reckoned the wind from the South meant an ideal spinnaker run start, collecting the dinghy while racing out of Oban bay. Cue much action on deck, rigging spinnaker lines, pole, uphaul, downhaul, getting it all ready. 10 minutes before the runners are due back, the wind (what little there was) swung round to the North. Cue much action on deck, detaching spinnaker lines, pole, uphaul, etc etc etc. Having grabbed the runners when they did appear we killed the engine and set off out the top end of Oban bay. The race has a fabulous quirk whereby the start of the run is at 12 noon, and at 1pm the Calmac ferry arrives into Oban. They have right of way, and know it. Almost inevitably, we have no wind and can’t get out the way. Out came the oars, and we rowed and rowed to get past the first light marker at the top of the island. Once past it we were able to pick up a little speed and the tide’s grip loosened off enough for us to start to sail off towards Lady Rock and the entrance to the Sound of Mull. Looking behind, there were still around 17 boats that couldn’t get past the tidal currents and out of Oban bay, so we considered ourselves lucky. One thing we had done much more of since our first attempt on the SIPR in 2009 was to learn how to trim sails, and we also had the demon of all demon sail trimmers, Dave S on board. So gradually we worked the most out of the boat and caught a number of others heading for the channel. But behind us, we could hear announcement after announcement from ferries leaving and arriving into Oban, until one evidently had enough of the drifting boats in his way and let rip a long burst of horn blasts until they got out his way. Glad I wasn’t there for that.

As we arrived at Lady Rock it was pretty clear that the tide was well set against us, so we crawled up in the shadow of some rocks to give us as short a hop as possible to clear the current. Spinnaker up, crossing currents, it was quite disorientating to be going sideways and feel like you’re going forwards. Eventually we burst through and started hunting down the boats in front. The run through the sound settled into a long series of wind bursts – enough to knock boats over on occasion – and wind holes where you just had to wait for the next breeze. The margin between the two was tiny. At one point we sailed up at 5 knots to a group of 11 boats lolling around in a total wind hole, sailed within 5 metres of the nearest one of them, kept our wind and passed the entire lot. They, meanwhile, didn’t see a hint of breeze for another 5 minutes. Unfortunately once they did they all pretty much passed us straight away, but for a brief moment we felt like champions!

The rest of the sail to Salen passed in ever-decreasing amounts of wind and ever-increasing amounts of rowing, until we eventually crawled past the old pier at about 7pm, in the middle of a gaggle of other boats. Close quarters, lots of yachts, all throwing their runners off into dinghies – not a bad way to get the blood pumping before a long run!

Ben Mor, Mull

Top tip #1: If you decide to do any of the runs, don’t sit up till 2am the night before the race with Bequia’s Jeremy putting the world right over a bottle of 10-year old malt….

After the mandatory 5-minute time out to get our kit checked, Dave G and I headed off for the long run in to Ben Mor. The heat was like a kick in the face, after so many hours out at sea the lack of wind and the humidity left us both struggling to find a decent rhythm. After just a couple of miles I was baking in sweat and slowing. It wasn’t until the long flats I managed to get a grip and get moving. A decent trot along past Loch Ba was slightly ruined by missing the turnoff to the path up toward Ben Mor, but a short field-hop later and we joined in with Mara’s runners for most of the ascent up to the shoulder. They promptly left us for dust on the rest of the never-ending grind towards the contour you skirt round for the climb up to the summit ridge. Dark closed in and I did my usual squealing and complaining on the last exposed section – some poor other pair had caught us and suffered my whimpering very patiently. As soon as we hit the summit it was time for a quick text and off before the last of the daylight died. Just as we approached the checkpoint at the burn headtorches finally went on, and we headed over to the last hill checkpoint in pitch darkness with just the occasional bit of aircraft and frog/toad/slimy things for company. The descent route was a gamble – last year in daylight we managed to pick out sheep paths and run them, this year it was straight line and keep going. Eventually we hit the track, then the last checkpoint, then the road home. A few bursts of cramp came and went, and finally we ran into Salen in thick fog, totally missed the turnoff to the marshals tent, headed off down the refurbished pier and straight into a wire strung across in front of us. Suitably chastised, we backtracked, found the correct turning, and came home in a frankly shocking 7 hrs 20m. After all the training (that we didn’t do last year, really) we were 40 minutes slower? I blame the dark…. We arrived back on board, got to the boat to find that while we’d been off plating on hills the crew had nearly been rammed – twice – by departing boats, one of them crewed by Caroline’s brother and cousin. Oops. We crept off into the fog, and out came the oars.

Mull to Jura

After a couple of hours kip, I popped back on deck to find a breeze had built up and Dave and Caroline had expertly passed a number of boats along the way. Things looked good, although reports from teams leaving much earlier were that they were struggling at Duart. The fleet was a lot tighter than last year. On we went, hoping to catch some more of the faster running teams, until we all ran into the same wind hole at Duart, with the tide firmly set against us. Some sensible boats simply dropped anchor and waited, while the rest of us engaged in a strange display of synchronised failure – sail upwind and creep up the coastline until the shore forced a tack. Swing away from the shore, catch the foul tide, drift gently backwards past all the other boats. Tack towards shore, creep up the coast, get too close, swing away on opposite tack, drift backwards, tack to shore……you get the drift. 6 yachts putting on a fine display for the somewhat bewildered tourists on shore. Eventually, patience wore thin, out came the oars and we hugged the coast so tight we could touch it. 2 on rock watch, 2 rowing, one on the helm – painfully slowly we made forward progress and started to catch Mara. The others behind had followed the same plan but seemed to be making less progress, so when the wind finally came up we headed off with Mara into quite a lead from the chasing pack. A dip in wind round Insch Island saw us crawl past Easdale and finally pick up the tide through Luing. Shooting down to Corryvreckan, safely past and on down the sound of Jura, we realised we were now on our own. We managed to ride the wind for another few miles until, once again, it died. After 4 more hours of rowing we had barely made it to Lagg Bay, 6 miles from Craighouse, with the tide now slowing us to less than half a knot. Caroline had just zoned out in the dinghy tied to the back of the boat (more efficient than it sounds) and was content to row, and row, and row…..until a black face appeared not too far away. Then closer. Then closer again. She had her very own seal stalker, who then properly freaked her out by working in partnership with another seal to get close and take a proper look. Brave Dave G swapped and on we rowed. I made the (unpopular) executive decision to stop for a couple of hours till the tide swung back in our favour to give everyone a chance to rest, marked the spot where we bailed out, got the anchor down and set the alarm. And promptly slept through it, waking an hour and a half late. We shot back to the point where we’d bailed, rode the tiny amounts of wind until they faded altogether, and started rowing. Again. Until we met Mara. Again! Several other boats caught up on the tide, and we headed a group into Craighouse to drop Dave G and Ross off for the Paps run. Just as they rowed away, Dave S and I threw the engine switch, pressed the start button, and…..nothing. First things first, get moored up. Drifted onto a mooring, and got busy with the batteries, starter motor, anything we could think of. Ultimately it came back to us having no juice, so a search for 12volts in Jura commenced. Eventually a star chap called Nicol appeared with his mate and a charge pack in tow. We reassembled the batteries, fired it up, and left it to run for the full duration of the stop. Relief! After putting the rest of the boat back together, getting some food down, planning out the tide gates, we heard from Bequia that they had retired off Gigha after hours of bobbing around going nowhere. Eh? We were sitting in 12-15 knots of wind, revelling in the chance to get some sailing done!

Paps of Jura

Dave G, Ross and I had been here 2 weeks before on a recce trip, but despite knowing what was coming, Ross seemed keen to set off regardless. Apart from a minor mishap at the check-in where the set of tags were nearly forgotten, they were soon on their way in a baking morning heat and little breeze. The initial run-in seemed fine, the Paps themselves the usual torture, mixed with adders and eagles, and for a more complete report I will have to refer you to the runners themselves. I do know they hooked up with Mara (again!), found out just how unstable the scree is a couple of times, and had a bit of a chase on the way home after knocking half an hour off our trial run time, and arrived back to healthy doses of food and calorie-recommended Stella. With little fanfare we completely messed up picking them up from the dinghy and headed out towards the Mull.

Jura to Arran

Last year, this was a bit of a nervous section – plenty boats had backed out ahead of us and we knew the Mull was taking few prisoners. This year, we had sunshine, some breeze and if we kept the speed up, a shot at the early tide. Of course, the minute we figured that out, the wind died. Unlike before, this wasn’t glassy calm, there was a small swell running and the little breeze there was simply vanished in the flapping sails. Finally after much frustration and messing around with sails, (spinnaker up, spinnaker down, poles out, poles in, etc etc) we got a breeze and carried on, Mara (who else?) in hot pursuit. As we neared the Mull we could pick out other boats – Mischief, Loonautics and others – who had followed the coast approach in, where we were taking the direct route. Quickly though, they all fell from sight as thick fog descended and we were left in an eerie world of our own, listening to the foghorns of others and wondering where on earth the coast had gone. I find sailing in fog very disorientating, and it was a real effort to stay on course with no points of reference. Eventually, we could see the tide start to turn against us, and our speed over the ground diminished by half a knot…..a knot……two knots. The breeze filled in though, and suddenly the fog lifted enough to find ourselves in a 5-boat huddle with Mara, Mischief, Loonautics and (I think) Caol Ila. Finally too we could see the Mull lighthouse off to the east, where it stayed resolutely refusing to let us past as the tide pushed against us harder and harder. With the wind picking up (to 20+ knots according to our instruments), a swell running against the tide and complete darkness now robbing us of any ability to predict the waves, we found ourselves surfing waves at over 8 knots boat speed, over-canvassed, and going absolutely nowhere. We made a play to catch the early turn of the tide against the cliffs, but chickened out given the conditions. It looked like a couple of others tried the same, and we criss-crossed each other in a higher-speed version of the Duart ballet. Eventually the sails were giving too much power and we called the runners on deck while we stuck a reef in. Slow, steady and safe until the power was out the rig, with Dave S excelling at the mast. The genoa lines were caught round the spinnaker bag (optimistically left on the foredeck) so we went main-only until round the Mull. And as much as we were stuck for hours, the minute the tide started to slacken off, we managed to hug tight to the cost and get out the swell into calmer water, going to right direction. With a following wind, the faster we went the calmer it felt and we finally had a chance to unwind some of the tension. We’d been advised at Jura to run charge into the batteries every hour, so we threw the engine into neutral and started her up to get some power into the batteries again. When we switched off we discovered the keys had been caught under a stray foot and snapped off. One to add to the Lamlash fix list. A minor navigational error (well, Sanda lighthouse looks a lot like a red marker buoy when you’re tired and it’s dark – so said all three on deck. I’m colour blind – that’s my excuse and I’m sticking to it) and we were off through Sanda and happy to report to the Coastguard we were round. A nice breeze finally settled in and we headed for Pladda, sending Dave S below for much needed sleep. The early light, the peace and the night sail all caught up with me, and I started to nod off at the wheel. Standing up to keep myself awake, I remember thinking that it’s lovely to be drifting along…….and woke up toppling towards the guardrails after a wave lifted the stern suddenly. A quick grab of the wheel and I was very, very awake. Lifeline was attached, thank goodness. Unfortunately it was only attached to me, not the boat. Stupid. I lasted another fifteen minutes then handed over to Dave S and went below for a power nap. Again, Dave S and Caroline blasted through some more boats and we were first of the group into Lamlash. Unfortunately, our one charge hadn’t been enough and we were engineless again. Quick change of plan in the blowy conditions – chuck Dave G into the dinghy and get him to row to the mooring buoy with a rope, we can then aim for Dave (literally) and have an easier time tying up. A quick shout on the VHF to tell the other boats we were sans engine, and on attempt 2 we got tied up. Running kit on, bags ready, head for shore. Unfortunately we’d lost 2 spots while getting the boat secured, but so what? It’s sunny and we’re going to do Goat Fell in daylight! Miles better than last year’s darkness epic.

Goat Fell

Kit check – easy. And a nice flat mile to warm up on the way out. Apparently time to beat was 3hrs 18mins – aye right! We felt confident of besting the 8hrs+ at the opposite end of the scale. Checkpoint one dispatched, we set off over Prospect Hill and straight away the heat was suffocating. We had a litre of water each, never going to be enough, and planning water refills gave us something to think about as we trotted round to the bottom of the path up Goat Fell. The opening 6 miles went past in 1hr 15mins – we were happy with that given the lack of sleep and the lack of food. I’d managed a banana and a hot dog since Jura, Ross had managed some stew and half a hot dog. Still, we had water and go gels, who needs more? At the bottom of the path we met a lovely lady working at the café who gave us a water top-up, then off we went. A long slow slog saw us summit in 2hrs 50m, again, happy with that. Setting off downhill we passed Mara’s runners – it wouldn’t have been the same without them by now! – and started to feel the thought of finishing drag us home. Hitting the bottom of the hill just over an hour later, we sooked another go-gel (4 each so far) and started to run. Even the smallest incline was starting to hurt by now, but we managed to make it through Brodick without too much drama. The long slow climb over Prospect Hill again seemed endless, and water just wasn’t enough any more. Thoughts of cold Irn Bru, cold Coke, cold Stella….start running again! After Prospect Hill, run all the way home, thanks to the man in his garden cheering us on, the last mile we hardly spoke, just ran, then ran a wee bit faster, then saw the pier, then saw Dave G, then we’re home! A brilliant welcome in from Nick and the other marshalls. Dave G must have wondered who the wild-eyed loonies were dragging the dinghy straight into the sea, yelling to get moving. Cold beer is some incentive, sorry Dave!

Arran to Troon

On board, collapse, get the sails up and head for home. While we’d been off playing, Caroline had done sterling work tracking down another engine starter pack in Lamlash and getting us going again, as well as finding time to tidy up the boat and generally have us ready to go. We had parked the boat on the outermost mooring from shore to make it as safe as possible when we arrived, but that meant a long, long row in and out every time she had to go to shore. Yet more rowing points for Caroline. Rather than play around with ferries or head into Troon marina without engine power we left the engine running in neutral all the way home. A couple of sails far ahead – Mischief and Thembi – should have had us all guns blazing but we were tired, happy to be finishing and close to home. I grabbed some sleep, then sorted babysitting extensions – welcome back to the real world! – and soon we were swinging out the swell into the outer harbour and Dave G and Ross went to take the line. A lovely cheer when we came into the harbour made it all worthwhile and soon the boat was parked, the beers were open and someone bravely mentioned “Next year….?”.

Aftermath

Good points? For me, Arran in the daylight. Demons from last year well and truly put to bed. Dave S and Caroline sailed brilliantly, and despite our shallow keel we managed to coax Ogun along to second in class on sailing times. The rowing effort was incredible, from Caroline particularly. Ross seemed happy he’d given up his spot in the Edinburgh marathon to join the team, and both he and Dave S seemed to enjoy their first SIPR. Dave G really seemed to get on top of his seasickness, what a revelation – can’t stand to see the big man not eating – and even enjoyed having his runs out the way early on in the race. The whole race is still madness and exhilaration all wrapped in one and simply brilliant. Well done Curly & co once again. And of course, our team polo shirts are spectacular.

Bad points? The heat. Since when do you get to complain about the heat in Scotland on the water in May? The engine failures (or battery failures to be more precise). Sleeping in at Lagg Bay – my fault.

Finally, thanks to Mark Critchley, Dave G’s Mum & Dad and Ross’s wife & daughter for coming to see us at the finish, and for bravely sitting next to smelly us when no sensible person would.

Finished!

2010-05-25T08:05:00.000+01:00

Sorry guys had an amazing sail over to troon in quite strong winds and swell but only took 2 hours to get in! Flying through the outer harbor at 5 knots was pretty exciting the Dave and Ross jumped in the dinghy to run to the finish at the marina office. Ross and Andy ran an amazing race on arran and came back on board buzzing with excitement.
We kept oguns engine in neutral all the way over to make sure we were ok but all our phones died hence the lack of blogging.
We were 13th overall 5th in class. If we had been an hour quicker we would have been 2nd it was that close. 27 retirals this year and I think it was harder than last year.
Thanks to Mark for coming down for a beer wnd to congratulate us. Dave gs Jim and dad also came over and Ross wife Julie Ann and daughter heather stayed for a while so we had some very brave people sitting on a very smelly boat! It was great to meet you all and great to share the finish.
So now home with a huge pile of the dirtiest smelliest washing to get though and apparently returning to work. I am also delighted to tell you I am an aunty again to a beautiful little boy. finlay Colin arrived yesterday safe and well and mum and dad are ecstatic. I think missing this years race has now been well and truly worth it!
Thanks again for the support and see you all next year! Xxx
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Going to be an exciting finish

2010-05-24T14:21:00.000+01:00

Our boys due in in next 15 mins one other boat just left and another getting ready. Dave s in full command getting a reef in the main and dave g away in to pick them up. Now thankfully we have an engine we can circle at the ready...
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Runners ETA 1430

2010-05-24T14:03:00.000+01:00

Sounds like they've had a good run sand nearly done. Quick snooze ha. Refreshed the rest of us. Sun is out and wind looking not too bad. Fingers crossed!
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Waiting...

2010-05-24T12:17:00.000+01:00

Andy and ross still away and not expected for a while yet. Dave was filling me in on his view of hurricane baws and has gone to his room...
Alison laughed at your glasses comment - I really needed them last night but couldn't face the hassle of trying to find them. If you could see the state of me the lashes are def the best bit.
All enjoying your comments and. Keeping us going. Don't worry off for a power nap before heading home x
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Battery dead again...

2010-05-24T09:52:00.000+01:00

After enduring s long hard night sailed head of the group into lamlash and engine wouldn't start despite being charged several times over night. However some nifty rowing from dave g great teamwork and coordination managed to get onto a mooring before disembarking to plead with a very nice boat yard man who I think wanted to get rid of me before I cried. He very kindly gave me a starter pack and thank goodness we have it up and running again. We've all had 2 hrs sleep and would love to curl up in our bunks but team oggie needs us - if Andy and Ross can run 18 miles I think we can sort out the boat - then sleep!
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Round mull

2010-05-24T05:34:00.000+01:00

Not fun. Stared at the lighthouse for 3 hours with hard sailing in 20 knots of wind before making any progress with 2 reefs being put in in the dark and while charging the batteries snapped the key in. Don't panic engine still going on and off but another calamity we could have done without. Dave s brilliant although our tiredness showed when we couldn't pick out the all important red light to steer us on our way.
Andy getting some sleep before goat fell but at least it will be in daylight.
We're ahead of the little pack of 4 or 5 boats but knowing the end is in sight keeping us all going.
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An hour away from the mull

2010-05-23T19:49:00.000+01:00

All fine wind settled to 10 knots. Dave quite green and wishing he was rowing :) at least he's done all gps runs! Tried eyeSpy to keep him occupied but with no visibility after w and s we were a bit stuck. Dave s in full command of trimming the sails and keeping us on our toes. All reefs out too.

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Boy its windy!

2010-05-23T18:36:00.000+01:00

Visibility not great wind up to 15k so reef in and still doing a steady 7k.
Going to hit the mull early...
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Putting the spinnaker up

2010-05-23T17:10:00.000+01:00

Left Jura back of 2 got stuck in wind hole for a bit then goose winged. Now trying the spinnaker. Wind steady at 7k. Boys had a great run and all happy.
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IMG00013-20100523-1600.jpg the human pole

2010-05-23T16:00:00.000+01:00

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Paps done

2010-05-23T13:26:00.000+01:00

Dave G sent a text from pap 3 - all done and heading back, although its a horrible route back so they will be a while yet. At some point we are going to have to switch the engine off and see if it starts again. Not sure I'm ready for it yet. 13 boats still here so we might have company down to the mull tonight. 72-ish miles to Arran, so if there's wind and we are lucky we might get there tomorrow morning in time for a mid morning jaunt up goat fell and an afternoon sail over to Troon. Sorted!
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Having a cold beer to get over engine dramas

2010-05-23T11:41:00.000+01:00

Well thanks to Andy and dave with the help of craobh Colin and nicol from craighouse managed to get the engine fixed - it appears our batteries are rubbish and had been over used with instruments while we rowed for hours. One jump start and these babies pinged into action - engine remains on!
Dave and Andy work really well together trimming the sails and discussing tactics - think they're made for each other actually!
Runners off to a cool start at 7 and loads of boats came in thereafter so were certainly not last. Just working out tides and we may be in luck and there's even a steady breeze!
Alison no chance of any fading but this should be sold as a boot camp for fat people with issues with their bingo wings. Nothing good to say about this years mascara although it hasn't fully been tested but the lengthening and thickening aint happening.
All showered and raring to get going.
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IMG00012-20100523-0642.jpg craighouse!

2010-05-23T11:24:00.001+01:00

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Minor glitch

2010-05-23T07:29:00.000+01:00

Arrived jura, runners ashore, engine won't start. Oops. 6hrs to fix it before the guys are back.
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And we're off again...

2010-05-23T04:20:00.000+01:00

Still no wind and some rain but have tea/coffee and oar power.
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Caroline's stalker

2010-05-22T21:27:00.000+01:00

Caroline has just leapt out of the dinghy and abandoned her rowing efforts after being stalked...by a seal. Apparently it has been eyeing her up for a while and finally got too close for comfort. I think from the way it stuck its nose in the air it probably just wondered why this boat smells so bad.
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Row row row your boat

2010-05-22T20:10:00.000+01:00

Starting at the top of the sound of jura, and currently heading for an anchorage to sit out the tide 6 miles short of Craighouse. Many blisters and sore hands, but think we could all do with the rest. Only 1.5 miles till we're done for the night. At 1mph.
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Been rowing for 2 hours

2010-05-22T19:23:00.000+01:00

Runners resting and we've had a roll and mums meat roll to keep us going. As ever mums baking, soup and meat roll are comforting us all and replenishing the billion calories we're burning up. Just had 5 mins of wind and its gone already. tide changing against us so there will be a long evening of rowing ahead.
Had a happy day though and everyone in great form despite the blisters on our hands and sleep deprivation. Anyway we need to get to craighouse soon as my battery power low!
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IMG00011-20100522-1637.jpg proof dave is eating

2010-05-22T16:39:00.000+01:00

Getting ready for jura - only another 3 hours to craighouse!
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The wind has arrived...

2010-05-22T15:23:00.000+01:00

And we are so far behind the tide is with us wnd going almost 11 knots over the ground. Yee ha!!!
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If someone can deliver some ice cream just off easdale point...

2010-05-22T14:37:00.000+01:00

I'll have a 99 cone please and dave g would like a calipo? Currently hunting down every breath of wind and managing a mighty 3 knots.
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finally away from mull!

2010-05-22T12:48:00.000+01:00

Doing 4 knots in a lovely sunny day but not making enough headway. Carrying on nonetheless :) all well fed and happy and praying we never have to row EVER again.

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IMG00010-20100522-1006.jpg

2010-05-22T10:08:00.001+01:00

Hugging the coast to avoid the tide
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Calories eaten 500 calories burnt off rowing 10000000000

2010-05-22T10:04:00.000+01:00

No wind just past duart but sun is shining!
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Almost out the sound of mull

2010-05-22T07:55:00.000+01:00

Chief blogger is taking some well earned rest, so just a quick update. Approaching duart castle, light winds but moving steadily. Passed a fair number along the way, hopefully we'll catch the tides at luing.

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Things have improved!

2010-05-22T06:10:00.000+01:00

Wind picked up and although we now don't have the tide with us we're doing about 3 knots in the right direction.
My turn to have a snooze and its very welcome!
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Not quite going backwards...

2010-05-22T04:51:00.000+01:00

runners had a slow run due to darkness but both fine and fed and tucked up in bed. Currently have 0 wind but with tide and rowing doing 1.1 knots. Woo hoo
Also remains very foggy but think that's lifting. Don't have tide with us for much longer...
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Games on hills

2010-05-22T03:48:00.000+01:00

Whoever came up with the idea of hunt the tiny checkpoint in the dark up a mountain needs to find a new hobby.

Back on the boat which is being rowed out in the fog to head for jura. 2hrs sleep beckons!

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Bequia away - almost rammed us in the process mind you!

2010-05-22T00:12:00.000+01:00

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Wow all of a sudden its become really foggy...

2010-05-21T23:53:00.000+01:00

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Going to be a while yet...

2010-05-21T23:45:00.000+01:00

And everyones sleeping and I'm bored. Was cold too so decided to put on ky thermals and new oilskins and altho warm think I may need the loo but can't face stripping off so soon!
Boys still have some check points to do so got a few hours to wait yet I think. Sailors getting edgy and one lot can't get their anchor up. Why they are motoring round the bay tho I'm not too sure. Very dark now and half moon hidden by clouds. I should probably sleep but hate the runners up there in the dark and don't trust my anchoring capabalities to settle down. And of course now I've had the toilet thought...
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Boys on the summit heading down

2010-05-21T23:02:00.000+01:00

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Waiting

2010-05-21T22:55:00.000+01:00

Just trying to stay awake and cosy while dave and ross get some sleep. There are a few boats prowling about expecting their runners soon but we will need to wait a bit longer - they're good but not super human! Some laughs earlier when a boat was obviously sleeping while their runners waited on shore. Calls to raise them not. Working but caustic humor did the job :)
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Made it to salen

2010-05-21T19:40:00.000+01:00

After rowing for hours came hurtling into salen with a gust! Bequia only half an hour ahead and think we're mid pack :)
Anchoring went well... So far...
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Still en route to mull.

2010-05-21T18:10:00.000+01:00

Predictably the wind eventually died. 3.3 miles to go, and the oars are out again. Ross and Dave S on the boat, Caroline in the dinghy pushing us. We are hunting every little bit of wind and celebrating when we get to 1mph! Fun...
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Dave G is told about the free lunch he missed

2010-05-21T16:34:00.000+01:00

And promptly passes out.
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And they past us again...

2010-05-21T16:07:00.000+01:00

What a hoot just stormed up past these really fast boats as they sat in a wind hole!! Of course now the hole has filled and they've shot off but we're hanging on their coat tails :)
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IMG00009-20100521-1556.jpg

2010-05-21T15:57:00.000+01:00

We have just sailed pass all of these boats!!!
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I can officially announce Dave is hungry :)

2010-05-21T14:53:00.000+01:00

After the sea sickness of last year with trepidation Dave stepped on board but with the help of beautiful weather some wind and anti sickness patches he is eating!
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8knots wind speed 5.3k

2010-05-21T14:25:00.001+01:00

Well another adventurous start dodging the ferries and rowing - sorry Col couldn't answer my phone was in the dinghy pushing oggie!
Sun is shining and we are cruising beautifully. Just had some lunch and the boys are telling us about their first run - hot and heavy going but they did very well and there are at least 16 boats behind us and catching the pack.

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8knots wind speed 5.3k

2010-05-21T14:25:00.000+01:00

IMG00007-20100521-1209.jpg the start line

2010-05-21T12:09:00.000+01:00

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And they're off!

2010-05-21T12:04:00.000+01:00

Sun is out!
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just over an hour to go...

2010-05-21T11:02:00.000+01:00

Currently sitting in the sunshine with a coffee not a breath of wind anywhere! Its very pleasant but not quite what we want! We're certainly not complaining though. Runners Dave and Ross all changed and ready to go and are just setting off for the ferry. Daves really funny with his sea sickness patch on (although high drama when the sun screen dislodged it) and his right leg has been shaved and strapped from toe to buttock at the ready. Ross waiting patiently. Not long to go now!
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Race day rumours...

2010-05-21T09:07:00.000+01:00

Seems that burly sailor types are in fact the biggest bunch of girly gossips ever. By 7am the word in the shower block was that for the first time in peaks race history competitors would be obliged to motor all the way to mull so the runners could get on with their race. It seems the impeccable logic behind this particular rumour was that there is no wind, the tides are against us and the runners might get bored if it took a while longer. As you might expect it turns out to be a pile of mince, and the race goes ahead exactly as normal. Cue lots of runners going to waterstones in oban for a book or 5. Thankfully we have no such issues, as a direct result of not really giving a stuff when we finish. Sorted.
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IMG00006-20100521-0757.jpg team photo

2010-05-21T07:58:00.000+01:00

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IMG00005-20100521-0627.jpg race day!

2010-05-21T06:28:00.000+01:00

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Race prep

2010-05-20T22:31:00.000+01:00

Few leggy blonde beers, scallops, steak and chips. Ideal athlete food.
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And the fun begins...

2010-05-20T15:55:00.000+01:00

the day before the race and the fun begins. You can spot the runners a mile off with their anti sickness patches behind their ears and chests puffed out like 15 year old school boys at their first disco. The sailors look slightly more world weary apart from Andy Dave and I of course! Best laugh is Ian has left his wallet in his car and winging its way to oban on the bus - guess who has to save the day? Yup me! Tee hee drinks are on Ian I mean me!
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Peaked too soon?

2010-05-20T11:35:00.000+01:00

Drift too soon, more like. Sitting in oban waiting for the rest of the crew to arrive. So far the only sign of wind has been of my own making. Fog, overcast, damp but warm, and not a breath of a breeze - meanwhile the met office claims force 3-4....

On the plus side, having little else to do means I get to mess around on the boat. On the minus side, most of the things I've touched so far have broken, most impressively the rope that holds the sail up. If you ever find yourself in a similar pickle, Owen Sails in oban are really quite remarkable at getting you out a fix.

To prevent any more dramatic failures I am now abstaining from any further activity and instead will read the instruction manual for the radar unit - I think we'll be needing it.

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2010 team introductions

2010-05-17T10:38:00.003+01:00

And the 2010 race beckons.....

Couple of changes this year. Dave Smith decided he couldn't use the same medical excuse two years in a row and so has taken up his place as our third sailor, after Tony filled the spot last year. David Walker evidently enjoyed last year's race so much that he felt the need to emigrate to Sydney to escape having to do it again, so Ross Neilson bravely volunteered for (or more accurately, was bullied into) taking up our vacant runners spot. 4 days to go, and we are still currently lacking the following:

i) A fully functioning yacht
ii) Food
iii) Transport to the start line
iv) A reliable forecast

On the plus side, the team T-shirts are awesome this year. There really should be a prize for that alone. We might be slow, but we'll be looking damn impressive while we hang around the back of the fleet. Caroline is taking on the role of Chief Blogger this year (her team t-shirt even says so) so all the updates from here on are likely to be much more informative, although whether any can live up to the mascara advice of last year remains to be seen.......

So, the team and their jobs for this year are:

Caroline - Crew/Chief Bloggger
Dave G - Runner
Dave S - Crew
Me - Crew/Runner
Ross - Runner

Peaked Too Soon rides again.....

Photos online at last

2009-05-26T10:54:00.001+01:00

After much faffing around, there are hundreds of our photos now on the web: http://s163.photobucket.com/albums/t299/andymcp_photos/SIPR/

Totally knacked but happy!

2009-05-18T11:55:00.000+01:00

And more important, in the bar at Troon!
A
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Finished!!!!

2009-05-18T11:37:00.000+01:00

2nd in class, 9th overall. Yee-ha!!!!!
A
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IMG00027-20090518-1024.jpg

2009-05-18T10:24:00.000+01:00

Troon marina. The end is nigh!!!
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IMG00026-20090518-0949.jpg

2009-05-18T09:49:00.000+01:00

Troon!
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Troon in sight

2009-05-18T09:45:00.000+01:00

Hi all
Think this will be my last blog before david and I make the last run to the marina office.
Boys recovering well and andy will be flaking out the minute we arrive!
We were becalmed at lamlash and I forgot to say we had to put david up the mast to sort out the lazy jacks just before the runners came back. The last day has been according to our current form - not smoothly!
Wet through but cannot wait for some champagne and a shower.
Your messages have kept us all going and the donations all worth while - well done you too.
C xxx
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Arran

2009-05-18T08:45:00.000+01:00

I am never going there again. That run and climb was the hardest thing I have ever done. There is zero left in the tank. Can't even sum up the energy to eat. But in a couple of hours we will be arriving in troon and finished. And then, finally, I can think of beer :)
A
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We're off!!

2009-05-18T06:36:00.000+01:00

Boys made a remarkable sprint and came onboard at 0615. Dave ok and tucked up warm in bed.
Another marathon run with poor visibility wind and rain.
spirits back to usual Ogun highs!
c
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Were not out yet!

2009-05-18T05:15:00.000+01:00

Quick update can't change runners would mean disqualification.l this has motivated the boys who are now running and will be here in 20. Cosy beds await and soup ready.
We may even catch the others in super Ogun...
C
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Not going our way

2009-05-18T04:37:00.000+01:00

Still waiting for Andy and Dave to return and Dave struggling due to cold. It started raining more or less when they left the boat and you could see the cloud gathering around goat fell. The weather has certainly not been kind to us and I think our luck may just have run out.
Andy speaking to marshalls about possible swap between Dave and David to get is home.
In the meantime 2 boats we think in our class have come in dropped off and picked up and left in last half hour.
The boys aren't far away in brodick so don't worry they are safe although exhausted wet and cold. They are well supplied and will be ok.
Gutted we got this far. Can see troon in the distance.
However its not over yet!
C
Ps Jill David has misplaced his phone so prob best to keep an eye on the blog.
Pps granny and grandpa sime will be a wee bit longer than anticipated. Will phone once we know what's happening.
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Runners at the ready...

2009-05-17T20:55:00.000+01:00

Feeling some pangs of panic as andy taking the phone away to get a photo of the summit. How I'll cope without blogging every 2 mins I'm not to sure probably wise to wean me off this thing slowly!
Wind has dropped a bit but getting there. No rain here yet but coming in along with some wind so we should make troon ok.
P
Can't see who's in but know 1 all rounder is there. Fingers crossed no others!
Allowing about 6hrs for run so its gonna be a long night - but we have gin :)
Catch u all soon reading out the comments keeping us all laughing.
C x
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High drama at sea

2009-05-17T19:24:00.001+01:00

Whilst eating the next batch of soup (mum this time dave thought the cauliflower soup like the cappucino of coffee and he's now undecided which one was better) have heard a pan pan call on the vhf from the troon ferry someone is overboard about 3 miles away. Not us at least! Hot off press! Casualty back on board helicopter on way...

Anyway all ok here.. Can't keep up with all the action!!! Gps just died ... Will be re-charging batteries asap!!!!

Dave well up for running think just keen to get off the boat! Going well - fingers and toes crossed that's the drama over with!

Alison - think how we look when we've just finished running then add 2 days of unwashed everything... L'oreal good but not a miracle worker :)

We all send our thanks for the comments keeping spirits high

C

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Almost round pladda

2009-05-17T18:11:00.000+01:00

Just overtaken the army boys (again) and approaching the lighthouse, desperate to get round that final run. Looks like we might summit in the dark and have a night sail to Troon but who cares?! Last time we checked nobody from class 3 had arrived arran. In total it seems like 29 of the 42 starting entries have retired so just making the finish line will be immense if we keep going. Everyone has given 100% to this and kept their heads when we got into tricky spots - amazing teamwork. But what has really kept everyone going has been the ability to read your comments and share the fun. Its been a great comfort when wet and cold! Just one more night to go....
A
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Coming up to pladda on arran

2009-05-17T17:10:00.000+01:00

8.4 miles to bottom of arran raining heavily and wind a bit fluky but ogun taking all in her stride.
I've had a row from my mum re my language so I'm very sorry everyone :) will behave now!
Dave is currently in hiding we hope to get psyched for run but he's had a bit of bother with seasickness (no wonder!) So poor david is thinking he may have another run to do.
Bequia now finished 5th overall and 4th in class which is well deserved after sailing through last night and having 1 injured runner (knee prob). Well done guys!
Andy on full adrenalin rush as we are now racing someone - could be some poor bloke trying to get home but that apparently doesn't matter there is a smell of a win in the air - or os that just me?
C
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Leaving the mull behind us

2009-05-17T15:26:00.000+01:00

We're through safe! Pretty wild ride and big seas but all sights now on arran. Last we heard there were only 3 class 3 boats left racing and none have checked in for goat fell. Dare we think the unthinkable?!
A
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Round the mull...

2009-05-17T15:18:00.000+01:00

Have had word we may be only boat in our class left so many have dropped out but not confirmed yet. Huge boost altho boys seem in their element surfing the tide and waves whilst going round the mull. Me - I may barf on their hotdogs if I don't get out this galley soon.
Another top tip for you all - if you need to diet come with us on Ogun and you'll never feel the need to eat again. Unfortunately nausea a side effect of this diet. (Effects are marvellous tho)
C
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Round the mull!

2009-05-17T13:34:00.000+01:00

Just passing mull lighthouse. Would send a pic but conditions are interesting!
A
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Jill...

2009-05-17T12:15:00.000+01:00

David sends love. And kisses to you and rachael. Don't get ready for troon for a long time! Hoping to be in through tonight/ early morning but will need to see how long this leg takes us. Seas freshening and getting quite exciting now. 11 miles to mull lighthouse but tide with us.
Will keep u all posted.
C
Ps dave has some colour back!
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Mr Gibson the skipper!

2009-05-17T09:32:00.000+01:00

Not only does this man run hills, he sails at full race pace too!
A
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Carrying on

2009-05-17T08:42:00.000+01:00

Forecast in 5-6 reducing to 4 so on we go. Bit bumpy and dave sick but feeling better.
Don't think will be blogging much today and will keep you all posted as much as poss.
David enjoying messages from home and feeling pretty good after his runs. Dave is a bit green...
Hanging in there and all in good form.
C
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We're on our way!

2009-05-17T07:30:00.000+01:00

Having had a team chat have decided to give the mull a go. Wind blowing 5-7 so shouldn't be as bad as last night...
The 2 daves had an epic run yesterday that sounds as though they shouldn't have been there. Sounds as though they grouped together with others and was team effort. They then had a good night in the hotel and are back for more!
5 boats have finished 22 retired and 12 sat it out in craighouse.
1 boat ahead of us so not the only mad ones!
Bequia made it eventually in to lamlash at 0500 and sound completely traumatised by their night!
Wish us luck - sun is out and tramping along at 5 knots. Will be a while :)
C
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Still on jura!

2009-05-17T05:56:00.000+01:00

Sat out a very rough night on the moorings, woken to a slightly less windy day. 12 other boats did the same, some now looking like they are about to leave.
Have called the hotel to rouse the boys, they should be back on board inside the hour and we will then come to a team decision on whether to head for the Mull or retire. Advice from those already round Mull is bias towards not going - think Bequia had a pretty rough time of it last night!
Off to re-check tides, will check back in later.
A
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Runners are in

2009-05-16T20:35:00.000+01:00

Conditions terrible still but runners are in and will sit it out in hotel until safe enough to row back to boat.
Boats coming and going as they test conditions. One more retiral (cause unknown) but all fine otherwise. Have clean hair again so general smell not quite as bad!
C
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Dinner time!

2009-05-16T19:26:00.000+01:00

Chaos all round with the weather but that's no excuse for not having a proper meal!
A

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Weather is having fun with us!

2009-05-16T18:27:00.000+01:00

All safe and well, just had text from guys to say they are descending from last summit. Yachts are returning for shelter, we know others have bolted to gigha to ride things out. Are going to get the boys back and hole up till the worst is past, then its race time! Should prove fun as it packs the fleet back together!
A
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Decision made...

2009-05-16T18:00:00.000+01:00

Just hear from bequia who are being hammered on way to mull. They're stopping in gigha for some respite so we've decided to sit tight in the meantime to let things cool down as forecast predicts.
All well and want to keep it that way!
C
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Forecast is in

2009-05-16T17:21:00.000+01:00

Force 5-7, occasional gale force 8 then decreasing to 3 or 4 later over the coming 24hrs. Would prefer 4-5 all the way, but I'll take this forecast and be happy!
Had the force 8 been forecast as persistant we would have stayed in Jura to either ride it out or retire. As things are, game on!
A
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Still on Jura

2009-05-16T16:22:00.000+01:00

Woke up to sound of wind and rain, getting used to that on this race! Couple of hours of sleep under the belt now and feeling a bit more human. That's a whole 3 hours since Friday morning and unlikely to be any more till we finish - thinking of starting a series of stupidity leagues for the team
: Member With Least Sleep, Member With Longest Worn Pants, Member With Smelliest Sweatiest Thermals (hotly contested that one) etc etc.
Estimate the boys should be over half way round by now - the relentless climbs and descents will give their legs a bit of grief. Still about 20 boats in harbour so we are doing ok. Bequia had gone when we woke so presume whatever drama their runners had has been sorted.
Now just a case of waiting for a safe return then head to the Mull with a tiny rag of sail out and hope the tides are kind.
A
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Arrived craighouse

2009-05-16T13:01:00.000+01:00

J
Arrived about 20mins ago and dropped the 2 ronnies off and they're away.
Surprised to see bequia still here as we know they had a great sail down and arrived at 0530. Runners not been seen and concern is growing a bit. They did take a while last year so let's hope all ok.
Having more tea and fruit loaf before a wee sleep to be ready for the mull tonight.
All well here!
C
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IMG00021-20090516-1052.jpg

2009-05-16T10:53:00.000+01:00

Dave packing for next run... Or trying to find more soup!
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IMG00019-20090516-1051.jpg

2009-05-16T10:51:00.000+01:00

David reserving energy for next run
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IMG00018-20090516-1050.jpg

2009-05-16T10:50:00.000+01:00

Tony protesting at having pic taken
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IMG00016-20090516-1048.jpg

2009-05-16T10:49:00.000+01:00

Andy at helm
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Not quite there yet!

2009-05-16T10:31:00.000+01:00

Making good progress and have taken a few scalps along the way which is boosting morale.
Maybe about 2hrs to go yet winds quite light for now and waiting for force 8 later...
Spending my time feeding this lot altho not sure how dave will take the news that the blanket soup is finished...
C
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For all those who use mascara...

2009-05-16T08:57:00.000+01:00

After a night of getting wet I think its important to let you all know how good l'oreal waterproof mascara is! None down cheeks and in with unwashed hair sweaty wet clothes I may not look glamorous but bloody hell the lashes do :)
Just fed the troops with bacon rolls and tea. Andy in bed at last and tony catching and passing the opposition.
David feeling good after run yesterday and raring to go again.
Haven't seen bequia since salen but think they will be miles ahead!
So from the smelly lashes - see ya!
C x
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We are alive!!

2009-05-16T07:40:00.000+01:00

Good morning bloggers! We've had quite an eventful night with wind coming and going other boats flying all over the place and wet runners to look after.
We are at the back but not last and spirits are quite high and trying to get through past coryvr.
C
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Ben mor and back

2009-05-16T04:23:00.000+01:00

Were so shattered when we got back that we didn't post. Made it safely home just as all the wind died and caroline and david jad to row us out into the sound. Spent the next few hours under pressure as the wind filled in and we had to reef and avoid other yachts in the dark. All went well until Duart where the wind died and we are now becalmed.
Massive kudos to David W for getting us up Ben Mor and passing a few teams along the way. We made a couple of beginner errors along the way but in the mental winds it was epic to just make it round. Winds gave problems on the boat too with plenty having to reset anchors.
Still, enjoying the peace now and might even get my first sleep of the race soon.
A
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Ben mor summit!

2009-05-15T19:16:00.000+01:00

Made it, 7:16pm!
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Andy and David at the summit of Ben mhor!!!

2009-05-15T19:07:00.000+01:00

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Boats are circling...

2009-05-15T18:49:00.000+01:00

People getting ready to go. All looking impatient and boats circling the pick up point like vultures. As long as I get my 2 boys back well be ok! Rain now on and wind strong. Hankies will be out for sailing later.
C
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Sorry false alarm! It was a youth team away who run a shorter course!

2009-05-15T18:19:00.000+01:00

Wind picking up again but anchor holding... Engine is on just in case!
C
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First runners off the hill at 18 30... 24 miles in approx 3.5 hrs...

2009-05-15T18:11:00.000+01:00

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Hairy moments

2009-05-15T18:05:00.000+01:00

Had to re anchor 3 times. Gusty wind and seaweed bed not making a happy stop. Thank goodness bequia there to guide me! When the chips are down Col Ian and Jeremy there 100%. Wish I could have a gin... Stomach in knots and very glad ice got lots of loo roll and clean pants. Need to go and check anchor... C x
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Arrived at salen

2009-05-15T16:10:00.000+01:00

Arrived at 4 and David and Andy off ashore for first 24 mile run up Ben mhor.
Tony Dave and I anchored quickly whilst others fannying around. Weather dry and windy. Having a cup of tea to celebrate with some of mums fruit loaf. 2nd time she's saved the day after veg soup revived dave - apparently like a warm blanket mum!!!
All well on Ogun :)
C
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Part one, oban run

2009-05-15T14:40:00.000+01:00

Top run from dave and david, back on board with no dramas. Leading boats left oban in a gale, we got stuck in a wind hole and had an interesting encounter with the Calmac ferry while completely unable to move. Pretty sure their gestures weren't formal seafaring signals...
Now well on towards Salen, enjoying fair winds and made up 3 places. So now third last :-)
A
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We're off!

2009-05-15T13:04:00.000+01:00

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Were off!

2009-05-15T12:13:00.000+01:00

Waiting for runners with a tiny dinghy!! I really don't know how well fit and other rowers loving it!
C
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Getting ready...

2009-05-15T11:35:00.000+01:00

Well the runners have gone to the start the boat is getting last minute checks and were all wrapped up in our thermals and wet weather gear. Its blowing 35 knots which is a Tad blowy!! Not looking forward to rowing in for the runners! 20 mins to start...
C
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