Mari Cha IV Transatlantic Record Attempt - Update
by Victoria Fuller 5 Oct 2003 21:01 BST
Mari Cha IV are currently on course to smash the west to east transatlantic record. They have currently sailed 1052 miles with an average speed of 16.1 knots. See the latest update from Mike 'Moose' Sanderson.
Please see the latest update from Mike 'Moose' Sanderson - Helmsman onboard Mari Cha IV below:
Yesterday I spoke about there being a couple of hurdles that always get in the way of boats breaking the transatlantic record - yesterday's one was all about getting out of New York, which obviously went incredibly well for us thanks to some nice work from the team to ensure that the yacht was fully prepared and particularly by all the guys that have been studying the weather and deciding exactly when to leave.
The second hurdle we had to deal with was today - the crossing of a trough of low pressure that is nearly always in the way inbetween the weather system that you decide to leave on and the North Atlantic high that you use to give you the fast downwind sailing that will take you all the way to England.
It was probably today more than any other when we needed the fasted boat we could get our hands on, and I'm pleased to say that our fantastic boat flew even considering the conditions: to pull of a 320 mile day when it is light airs and you are tacking upwind for a good part of the day is awesome. And to have now made it through the trough and be reaching again at 16 knots towards Newfoundland is an amazing feeling.
Everyone is in great spirits onboard. The freeze dried food is starting to taste good and the boat is in perfect condition. Luckily Lowlife and Jef have got a piece of wood here in the Nav Station for touching especially when you say stuff like this, but to date we haven't broken anything!
It's nice to know that everyone's hard work has paid off over the last few years - it's a credit to all of you out there who have have played a part in designing or building this great yacht. Long may our good run continue. The forecast is looking good for the next couple of days, so hopefully I will be able to send you some exciting images of the boat reaching at speed.
Until tomorrow, and thank you for all your support.
Mike Sanderson
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