We’re now on countdown to Sunday’s start and everyone is busy with final checks and boat preparations. It’s also week two of the comprehensive ARC seminar programme; an invaluable resource on offer to ARC participants. It’s what makes the ARC unique. Being part of the big ARC sailing community and a large group, brings with it benefits such as discounts, information and on-tap advice from lecturers and the ARC Team before the start.
But at the end of a long day ticking off the jobs list, the ARC’s infamous social atmosphere envelopes the marina. Beyond the extensive organised programme of ARC activities to keep crews entertained, many impromptu dock parties and pot-luck suppers create a melting pot of crews comparing notes on their preparations and sharing their seafaring stories. Last night, it was ‘T’ Pontoon’s turn to host the party – with music, dancing and a few long island ice teas! Crews were invited on board the Hanse 540 Magic many bringing along musical instruments to get the party started which lasted in to the early hours.
Back to business of Atlantic preparations this morning and Jerry ‘The Rigger’ Henwood’s seminar kicked off the seminar programme at the Hotel Santa Catalina. Jerry, who has sailed all his life, runs his own rigging business from his workshop in Gosport, England and is just one of several highly experienced ARC lecturers who come out each year to offer practical support and useful tips. Mostly seen up the mast of a boat in the marina checking the rigging, his lecture includes common problems encountered with the rig, one of the most important parts of the boat. Click here to read Jerry's top tips for rig checks
Chris Tibbs who has sailed around 250,000 miles and is a top meteorologist is sailing in the ARC himself this year with his wife Helen. His talks today included Management of Emergencies at Sea and Tips for Downwind Sailing. There’s still time for participants to book in for one of his popular hands-on sessions on setting up and using a sextant.
Many of the 'yellowshirts' team have been with the rally from the beginning and Clare Pengelly has been involved with World Cruising Club for nearly a decade, both as staff and as a participant in the events. A passionate sailor, Clare has crossed the Atlantic with the ARC three times, and sailed on several ocean stages of World ARC. Clare has a near-obsession with finding out about the perfect way to provision a boat and will be enlightening participants with her wisdom for eating well for their Atlantic crossing!
As another day comes to a close in Las Palmas, crews will enjoy a sundowner to digest the knowledge gained from today’s lectures before the jobs lists will be out once again tomorrow, and the seminars continue.
5 days to start day!