This is a very short blog. I have posted it mainly as a reminder. Yesterday - Sunday 23rd July 2017 - I went over to Gosport with some of our crew to take delivery of a suite of new sails for CV25. CV25 is Team Dale's boat (sponsor to be announced) - and the boat I will be sailing across the Pacific on early next year.
Our main task was to hank on our new mainsail to the mast. This is a one off job as it is quite possible the mainsail will remain in situ until the round the world race is completed. To have a hand in setting up this absolutely crucial piece of the jigsaw felt significant to me - almost ceremonial. Our boat will carry three Yankees, three Spinnakers a Staysail and various storm sails - but only one Mainsail.
Anyway we did it - and we did it in grotty wet weather. A big job - because the sail is absolutely massive and weighs a ton. When you get up close - and really look at it - it is almost a work of art. The stitching - the paneling - the reinforcements are so complex. No wonder sails like this cost a fortune. It is incredible that a sail - so substantial and well made can rip under tension - how is that possible - we all know how it is possible ?!
Be kind to us mainsail - we will endeavor to look after you - and promise not to overfill you with wind by reefing in good time - to flake you accurately so your batons don't get bent and twisted - and to stop your reefing lines flogging like crazy!
 |
| CV25 starting to get ready - on the dock yesterday |
 |
| Preparing the new main for hoisting - so much material |
 |
| Main halyard has been ground on to the mast top. Looks like the boom needs to be lowered!! |
No comments:
Post a Comment