We motored around Southend pier until 4am then started to make our way up the Thames. As we got closer to tower bridge the crowds were amazing and lots on spectator boats. The atmosphere was unbelievable. We went under tower bridge then turned round and came back through and into st katherines docks. Our children Jodie Connor Sam and Dana were in the crowd with our granddaughter Freya. Along with Jared Deana Dave Ella Megan sue Dave Julia Steve their friends Lis...

Leg 8 race 14 day 2 Was woken at 1.30 to get on deck for 2am! Hadn't slept much. It was cold on deck could see lots of stars. Carl helmed for the whole watch. All boats are pretty close. We have to beat mission, telemed, Dan nang as all close on points. All on 72 points each and all in 5th place. Saw the sun rise came off shift at 6am had bread and jam then in bunk for a sleep till 10am Up on deck at 10am for 4 hours could see 9 boats around us. In front was ...

Leg 8 race 14 : day 1 Up at 6.30 had breakfast then checked out of hotel and walked to the boat On the boat at 8 said our goodbyes to crews on other boats Slipped lines at 10am out the port then hoisted sails did a few practice tacks and a man over board Parade of sail at 12

Up at 9am got a taxi to the station then train back to den helder. Had lunch with sophie then went to crew briefing for the next and final race. Then had a qindao briefing we are switching to 2 watches for the last race. Had a few drinks then went for a Thai meal with Matt and Sean Got a taxi back to our hotel sat on the balcony and had a glass of wine. Looking forward to getting home now

Woken at 7.30 by builders ! Matt made scrambled egg on toast for breakfast. Sophie and oiliver went off for the day with his sister. We had a wander round went to sex museum. Had a lovely lunch and wine. Meet Garmin crew for a drink then met sophie Oliver Matt for a trip on the canals on a boat lovely funny evening. Had a curry then came home A good fun packed day