Learning a lot about short handed sailing

Det har ju gått trögt för Hugo Boss i Barcelona World Race. Framför allt för att man har en båt som är optimerad för undanvindsåka på sydliga breddgrader, men i Medelhavet så har det varit väldigt lätt vind. Wouter Verbraak klev ju in som (tillfällig) ersättare när Alex Thomson skulle operera bort blindtarmen, och det är lite kul att läsa hans lärdomar så långt.

Needless to say, with the light winds it has been a rather challenging start of the race for our team on the Hugo Boss. Never the less, we made some good moves and that is very satisfying.
 
As they say: “It is real character building stuff out here” And certainly with the light winds we have time to reflect on it all. Inevitable the conversation comes back to what we are learning for the remainder of the race. Both Andy and myself have an extensive background in crewed ocean racing, but we are new to the double handed thing. Here are some observations:
 

1. When the fleet is leaving you behind, it is all down to helping each other out mentally to get over it, and move on. Like on crewed races, keeping a positive atmosphere is key. The difference is that in a crew of ten , there is always someone with a joke or cheerful  anecdote. Here it is all down to yourself and you co-skipper to sort it out. I can say we have been very good at it so far! The mood is positive and pro-active. We are going to get these guys!
2. The auto pilot is the most important item on the boat. Not being able to use it means you are hand steering for all of your watch, you can`t look after all the routine checks and systems, and most important you get exhausted and lose focus to make good decisions. The extremely light winds are a real challenge for the pilots, and basically we had to hand steer for two days straight. Not good!
3. Think efficiency with everything you do. Pulling a Code Zero 200 m2 upwind headsail in with four guys on the grinders is a good work out. Reduce the muscle power with two, and you certainly have your tongue on youyr knees after a tack! So: we are finding little tricks everywhere to reduce friction in the rope systems, pull the furling line instead of the sheet when unfurling, etc etc etc. It is a never ending game!
4. Look after each other  well; three meals a day, and as much sleep as you can manage to squeeze in will keep you fit and focused. A cup of coffee for the other guy when he wakes up is magical!
5. Deal with things straight away; messy cockpit with ropes everywhere? Not a problem now, and certainly making a cup of tea is much more appealing, but postpone it, and the next manoeuvre is a mess….

 
The list is long, and growing with every mile we sail. Best thing is we are challenging ourselves in completely new ways and growing stronger all the time. Soon we will be out in the Atlantic, and our race horse can truly stretch her legs. Until then, we are racing are hearts out. Tripple checking our systems so we are 100% ocean ready, and are keeping the spirits up with our Spanish ham and cheese, mayonnaise and Tabasco wraps.
 
Good news form our shore team as well today, as Alex is recovering well, and will most certainly join the boat on one of the islands in the Atlantic ocean. Keeping fingers crossed and wishing him all the best. We are looking after his baby well!
 
Have great day!