Reina (spanish for queen), the first built Oyster 825, is going for her maiden ARC with a crew of seven mixed of three nationalities. British, Danish and Dutch. In the last few days this international crew-cocktail
prepared the ship and now all aboard are ready to give their utmost in the race to St. Lucia.
Of course every member of the crew is important aboard a sailing yacht that goes for a long trip over the Atlantic Ocean, but to achieve a good result in the ARC the crew has to be kept in excellent condition. On
Reina chef Floss Cripps is responsible for that part of the adventure we are going to enjoy on one of the seven seas. We start the day with a very healthy breakfast. A good lunch keeps the seven of Reina in ultimate condition. Diner is always special. Floss
is from Wales. And so is her husband Jarrod.
Captain Jarrod Cripps will lead the Oyster 825 in the right direction on this first ARC for the yacht that was finished earlier this year on Oyster's wharf in Southampton.
Jeroen Hemels is back behind the steering wheel. He experienced how fast this boat is during the last Oyster Regatta that was held in Palma de Mallorca. Reina became very near to victory in her first race. Second
actually was more than good. But Jeroen will always make the crew enthusiastic for the best result.
Arie Blokland, the second Dutchman aboard, will keep the ARC fleet and the fans ashore informed about the progress the international crew of seven is making. During the crossing he will try to send more than a few
logs that might be published on
www.worldcruising.com.
We also have two very experienced sailors from Britain. Rory Gillard is a professional who already did several ARC crossings. So he knows what has to be done to keep Reina in the front line.
Also Harry Spedding has more than a few ARC's on his list. Harry took part in several races all over the world. He knows the way and the trics to get to St.Lucia as quick as possible.
Last but not least there is Jack Rohde Pearce. The youngest of the crew. But a true Viking. He is Danish. His ancestors came over the seas to rule in a great part of Europe. Jack is a very nice and peacefull boy.
But still with seablood in his vanes and the spirit of a winner.
So beware of Reina! When the big red spinaker with the white crown is hoised she will dance over the ocean with at least 11 knots.
Reina – Arie Blokland