Doctor at sea......Clipper round the World

Clipper Round the World Race – racing for Pocklington School

 

Since I returned from Leg 7 of the Clipper Round the World Race in early June after an absence of 10 weeks I have been catching up and readjusting to life on shore. I have also been quietly reflecting on the voyage. It was a unique, extraordinary and remarkably enjoyable experience. I was fortunate on my boat, Visit Finland in being with an amazing skipper and great crew which engendered easy camaraderie and team spirit; other crews seem to have been less fortunate in this. We were also in podium positions, 3 and 2, after the two races on the leg, which helped

       Apart from the pleasure in being at sea for 35 days and the frisson of racing, highlights included leaving California from under the Golden Gate Bridge, coming into Manhattan past the Statue of Liberty, passing through the Panama Canal and the incredible close encounters with Sperm, Finback and Sei Whales and 3-4 species of dolphin in large numbers.

      The only “tough” negatives were the incredible heat both in the Pacific and Caribbean and at times the relative lack of wind. It was constantly above 90 degrees (F) below decks and for much of the time 100 degrees in the saloon and 110 in the galley. Sleeping in those temperatures was difficult. It became very tiring on rotating 4 or 6 hour watches. The frustration of being becalmed for a few days mid race was only relieved by the fire-hose showers and being overtaken by turtles.

      A particular highlight was meeting up with Old Pocklingtonian, Paul Kay who was my cotemporary (1955-62) but who I hadn’t seen since we were in Julius Caesar directed by Mike Stevenson in 1960. His Shipping Agency has acted for the Clipper fleet through the Panama Canal on all its races over the years and he contacted me out of the blue, met me in Panama and gave me a personalised tour of the city, a guided trip of the canal from the land side and lunch! I am most grateful for his generous hospitality and it was great to reminisce about the old school.

       It has been a great experience which I wouldn’t have missed and would recommend to anyone, sailors or those with ambition. 40% of the 500 participants had never sailed before the training so don’t let that put you off. For more details go to www.clipperroundtheworld.com 

       I want to thank very much those who have supported my fundraising efforts for The  John Dolman Trust and for those who haven’t yet got round to it is not too  late as the just giving site remains open and it is so easy to give securely and effectively so please do! www.justgiving.com/edwinswarbrick

 

Thanks

Edwin Swarbrick