Around the World Clipper Race

[sarafina]

I have been following the big clipper race and have found it fascinating. Then last weekend Himself and I had the chance at the Jack London Show to tour in person the Californian! Wow.

This is the vessel that lost it's mast and rig in 60' seas crossing the pacific and (literally) limped into port with the help of a consortium of the other race boats providing support supplies and shepherding services.

At the show all the new gear electronics that had been taken out in the roll by water in the cabin and rigging had been replaced repaired and reconnected. It still smelled like stinky boys and sweat socks. wet dirty sock... ; -)

man, smells aside it was so interesting seeing the below decks operation, the systems in place for the meals, sleeping, head, crew on duty and crew off duty. Just fascinating.

The crews are a mix of experienced and new folks who have never done this sort of sailing before and it is viewed as a training program in addition to a hugely competitive race!

They have headed out on the next leg and are under way, zipping south along the coast of Baja now.

More info here;
Clipper 09-10 Round the World Yacht Race