This year the race was from Skudneshaven to Banff via the Sleipner A oil platform mid north sea. The forecast for the race was strong southerly winds (F6-7) dying after 24 hours and veering westerly. This meant that the faster we could get over the less chance of loosing the wind and ending up with a very slow finish.
The race start was in a building wind so of course we were soon over-canvassed. Eight hours and two reefs later we were in a good Force 8 with the wind about 50 degrees apparent and big seas. A truly soaking experience! As you can imagine the crossing was rather quick until we hit a hole in the wind as we approached the Scottish coast. What could have been a 32 hour crossing ended up at just under 38!
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Here was the welcome sight of Rattray head emerging out of the mist on a balmy summer morning.
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It was a truly great feeling to know we had put up with some of the worst weather we are likely to experience with only a wet pair of boots to show for it.
Out of the 20 boats taking part, 5 retired due to the strong winds and big seas. Our 3rd in class and 5th overall was a great result for us -given the conditions.
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With great relief we got into Banff (well actually McDuff harbour) and got the chance to dry out. Grand Slam was relatively dry inside unlike many of the other boats so it was just oilies and boots that needed a good hose down and dry out.
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The crew now had plenty of time to relax and compose the North Sea Calypso that Sue and Jim had been planning. If I can work out how to copy the DVD of the song, I will post it on the site - don't hold your breath!
Sue spent a couple of days going from boat to boat to have a drink to collect information for a verse for each boat.
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After our success with Robert in 2006, it was now Sue's turn. This was the best we could do! The Fire tender was up on the habour wall as part of the race festivities and Ken persuaded the watch leader to lend us one of his lads.
A few days later it was off to the west coast to leave the boat for the summer.
