Yesterday afternoon the World ARC fleet attended the skippers briefing at the Yellow shirt villa which was followed by sun-downer drinks at a poolside bar with spectacular views of the anchorage as the sun sank into the sea. Relaxation and positive vibes was the feeling throughout the fleet as the smell of the BBQ dinner just below slowly brought them down the steps and onto the beach. There a buffet of barbecued prawns, chicken and meat accompanied by some "requetón" music kept the party atmosphere going.
The prize giving took place at the end of the meal and numerous prizes were awarded. The third, second and first place of the mono-hull division were Cayuse (Outremer 51), Libeccio (Leopard 44) and Smoke and Roses (Leopard 47).
The third, second and first place of the cruising division B was as follows; Amara (Hylas 54), Footloose (Cabo Rico 45) and Bijou (Sweden Yachts 42). Cruising division A was won by Alora (Hylas 56) followed by Adrienne (Gibsea 51) and Lunatix (X-Yachts Xp50) in third place.
A few fun prizes were also given out, S/Y Shepherd Moon won both the ETA fun competition guessing only 30 seconds out of their estimated time and also won the quiz question being on 19 years out of the total age of the participants taking part in Leg 2. A friendship prize was awarded to both Madrigal and Solitude for helping and staying in Santa Marta marina with S/Y Someday who had some problems on the start day. Finally a prize for being at the right place at the right time was given to Shepherd Moon as they saved a local fisherman who was sinking in his canoe as they entered Portobello.
The start took place today at 1100 and was a spectacle, not all the fleet was out on the start line but quite a few colour sails were seen as boats crossed the start line. A 4-5 day passage awaits the fleet as they make their way to the Galapagos islands where the Yellow shirt team will be waiting for them.
