'KIDS!' that all it takes and I am out of bed looking forward to the day ahead, I start with filling the water tanks and then move on to other odd jobs that I am asked to do. At 10:30 mum and dad turn up, they stayed in a hotel last night; I wonder what they got up to? Hehe, and they help to get the boat ready. Times passing quickly now and the time soon comes to say our good byes, set up some slips and leave. I was surprised how emotional the good byes were and mum and I both agreed to keep it short, both hating long good byes. So the engine went on and the ropes were dropped. St .Lucia here we come. Mum was standing on the harbour wall, taking photos and waving us good bye. The adventure really had begun. I have attached a picture of me as we left the marina.
BANG. Its 12:40 the signal flare for the racing division is let loose and the race begins. Ten, nine, eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two, one BANG. Its 13:00 and the signal flare is sounded our division starts. We're mid pack not front, not back but unlike others we sail over the line all sails up engine off. The journey official begins.
Its 19:00 and after having some really tasty spag boll, sorry mum but it was nicer than yours, I decided to get some shut eye before my first four hour night shift that starts at midnight.
Author Sam - Chilli crew mate - age 16.