It has been a busy but extremely enjoyable and interesting ARC+ programme in Cape Verde islands of São Vicente and Santo Antão which concluded last night with a lively Farewell Function and Prizegiving in the Cultural Centre in the city of Mindelo. All ARC+ crews got together at sunset on the municipal pier, just outside the marina, to be entertained with a local music and dance group Mandinga. It is a dramatic display with the warrior-like dancers performing energetic dances holding weapons of war and covered in black tar.
The group then led ARC+ participants into the Cultural Centre, for Welcome Drinks and the Prizegiving for Leg 1. All the crews stood excitedly to learn who had managed the podium positions of first, second and third in each of the four categories. There was a lively atmosphere and crews congratulated one another with great energy. Check the results here.
Following the Prizegiving, ARC+ Event Manger Paul Tetlow thanked those in the city who had helped make the fleets stay so successful. He thanked the Marina Mindelo for having the fleet, and for the helpful and cheerful way its staff had helped the crews during their stay. Jackie Gomes, representing the Marina Mindelo owners and staff replied with thanks for the ARC+ visit, best wishes for the crossing to Saint Lucia and an invitation to return in Mindelo whenever and as soon as the crews can.
Paul also thanked the local charity SOS Aldeias. This is an organisation that works with single mothers, and for their children, to improve their quality of life by developing skills and trades to support their families. The group provided the dancing and entertainment during the evening and also the traditional dish of cachupa to feed the ARC+ crews.
It was a great evening and a fitting finale to the crews time in Mindelo. Today the crews prepare to restart to Saint Lucia with yachts crossing the starting line at 1245 and 1300 local.