Location: Antigua
When we signed up for this voyage on Argo, none of us expected to be here in Antigua sailing in the Classic Regatta. That only became possible when Argo hit that submerged container, delaying our trip by a few weeks. And here we are. (Just kidding!!!)
Second race day, and I was up very early, running in light rain and enjoying the opportunity to chat with the locals and see something of life on the island. As forecast, there was less wind for today’s race which was the Butterfly – a 20-mile, five-mark course. We waved and cheered as the 212-foot Adix stormed past us very early on. What a sight! The slow conditions caused quite a few boats to drop out, but when Freddie called a vote, we unanimously chose to stay in the race, safely rounding all five marks and finishing in just over four hours with heavy clouds overhead. Much wild cheering as we crossed the finish line.
Many of us have never experienced racing before and are feeling the excitement of a regatta for the first time. Peter and I had been given a tour of Adix by Gray, one of the crew members who also filled us in on the history of some of the other nearby yachts, including yesterday’s winner of the vintage race, the famous Blue Peter, who had apparently been blessed by Queen Elizabeth, and She who had sailed in the Sydney to Hobart – which was of particular interest to me, being Australian.
Free time after we docked and no classes today as we hosted dinner on the dock for everyone from Ocean Star. Amanda C organized takeaway pizza, and there was entertainment provided. The best of it being Beau, accompanied by us, who entertained the crowd with sea shanties. All in all, great fun and much line dancing.
Signing off on behalf of the racing team on Argo.
David Y.