Leg 8 : race 13: day 1 Up at 8.30 showered packed and took bags to the boat. Met Lucie Colin Mel and Sean for breakfast then on the boat for 11. Had photos taken then slipped our lines at 1 for a parade of sail. It was lovely and sunny with big crowds to see us off. We motored out to the race start. I had a rest on my bunk as my shift will be 7-11pm and 7-11am each day. Feeling nervous always do at race starts. I hope the North Sea isn't too rough ! Race start...

Had stayed over at Sophie's so she dropped us home at 12. Had something to eat then a couple of Guinness watching a live band. Went to crew briefing meeting to listen about the next race : met Lucie Sean and others for drinks then a curry. Watched the parade of sail and fireworks. Lovely evening. The children sent a photo of them all together at nikki wedding pity we couldn't go

Had a lie in the went for a late breakfast had a wander round the water front Sophie picked us up at 4 and went for a BBQ at hers and stayed over night She had a lake in her back garden with Swan pedlos was a laugh

Had a lie in then on the boat for 11.30 for open day. Groups of people looking around the boat hard work talking all day. Finished at 7pm then back to hotel for a quick change then met with Denis Lucie colin Mel Ros and her partner for dinner at Pier 59. Carl and I shared a fish platter and some lovely white wine. Nice Evening sophie and oiliver joined us to and later Esha

Alarm went at 6.15 went to the boat. Carl me joe frank and John (Chinese crew) helped Bob to re fuel then had 5 day trips for guests motoring up and down the river. Finished at 5.30 back to hotel quickly changed then went to prize giving ceremony. Started off at the playhouse for fish and chips and drinks then went for a walk along the city wall ending up in the main square where winning teams collected their pennants. Had a few drinks there good chatting to oth...