Journal Entries — 2005

15 November 2005
Sitting on the balcony over looking Salvador and the marina where Feng is at the moment. Dad has just left and what a week it had been. Since my arrival I have had a chance to do nothing or take some time to chill away from the boat yet. Been just sorting the boat out and giving her the well deserved clean, then the task of derigging her and packing here for shipping. As I was a week after, most had already a bit of holiday and then back to sort the boat. I prefer to get everything squared away before enjoying and then going for a break.

Think each and everyone of us have the feeling of suddenly all the adrenaline and the effort we have put in to the race has come to an end. What's next hangs on everyone's mind, me even what's next I keep asking myself the question over and over again. Looking at the marina now and seeing the few of us left there is rather hard. It will be very hard to let Feng go to the new owner, yes I am letting her go. I have to.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all that has helped in this campaign. It’s been a long hard struggle over the two years and finally we have made it. Without the support of sponsors, family and friends, it would have remained a dream. When I started I mentioned that the race was a single handed race but the campaign was definitely not. Without all who helped in one way or another, now I still would be thinking 'I wonder what it would have been like if I was there ...'

Thanks also to all at Class Mini, the organisers of the Mini races and the MT itself. It has been a pleasure to have met all of You. Not forgetting the Zero yard that has been there for me through all my nicks and bumps guiding me thru what I should do. People who I have met during my stay in France and Spain who had made me feel welcomed in a new country, much appreciate the little messages that were sent through the race site and all. Really perks one up... I can go on and on and on ... but I should wrap this up by saying:

THANK YOU VERY MUCH! MERCI BEAUCOUP! MUCHAS GRACIAS!

On another note, watch this space for my next project ... :O)

4 November 2005 01:57 (GMT + 8)

Congratulations! Elaine has arrived in Bahia! The long awaited phone call came at close to 2am Singapore time. Elaine has arrived safely in Bahia some two hours ago, have had two capirinahs, with a whole group of people waiting for her to finish her conversation so they can all go for a meal. It was a warm reception, many people were there to receive her. David (FRA466) went onboard when she sailed in. Her next action item is get some sleep, a hotel's been arranged and her Dad arrives tomorrow. Great to hear her voice again, and we'll have to wait till she gets some rest before we hear the stories!

The first bath in many weeks! Photo courtesy of Muriel Lapalu of Grand Pavois Organisation / Transat 6,50 Charente-Maritime/Bahia	Elaine's arrival in Bahia. Standing behind her is David de Sacqui (FRA 466). Photo courtesy of Muriel Lapalu of Grand Pavois Organisation / Transat 6,50 Charente-Maritime/Bahia

19 October 2005

Elaine Chua entering bay of Mindelo (Cape Verde). Photo courtesy of Grand Pavois Organisation / Transat 6,50 Charente-Maritime/Bahia	The rudder. Photos were taken by accompanying boat, Parati. Photo courtesy of Grand Pavois Organisation / Transat 6,50 Charente-Maritime/Bahia

18 October 2005 19:12 (GMT + 8)
Elaine has sorted her problems, it appeared that the tiller was not working well, and thus replaced it. She is planning her departure to carry on with the remaining of the race, leaving in the evening (Cape Verde time) with Adam Currier (176) and Xavier Bluy (78).

17 October 2005 20:20 (GMT + 8)
Elaine has stopped at Mindelo, Cape Verde (at 6am local time) with generator, auto-pilot problems and rudder damage. She is trying to repair the damages and sort out the problems.


The bay of Mindelo with Sao Vicente (Cape Verde) taken in photograph by the boat Edulis guide. Feng on extreme right.
Photo courtesy of Grand Pavois Organisation / Transat 6,50 Charente-Maritime/Bahia

13 October 2005
A great shot of Elaine and Feng.

Photo courtesy of Grand Pavois Organisation / Transat 6,50 Charente-Maritime/Bahia

13 October 2005
Photos courtesy of Raoul Cospen. Thanks Raoul!

Elaine and Dr Cécile Bertrand, the doctor from the race organisation, before the departure of Leg 2	Departing Lanzarote	At the start

11 October 2005
An interview with Sailing Anarchy

5 October 2005
An interview with Daily Sail's James Boyd. Read it here. :O)

2 October 2005
Lanzarote!

To be honest, I have had only one day yesterday out of the marina to have a bit of time to catch some sights other than the marina and boats. Guess what took a boat ride over as well. One would think I have had enough of the water by now isn't it ... but this time it's different. No panic that I'd hit the coast as when I was coming in I had to put in and take out the 1st reef as the winds were a bit funny so half the time I was really stressed and not enjoying the coast. It's actually quite pretty.

Over the last week, boat's almost sorted out (many thanks to Alasdair's help otherwise, I would still be ticking them off the list now), changed the god forsaken batteries (of which I really should have changed it when in La Rochelle... sigh lesson learnt). All the little bits that need to be changed have been done, just awaiting my led lights to arrive and my other bag with my food and spares to come from somewhere out there. They were supposed to have arrived sometime on Friday but the boat broke down and they have had to stop for spares. "Manama", they said about three days ago so think tomorrow should be about right. Feng's not had too much to do in this stopover as compared to some other boats which had been pushed way too hard over the last leg and need some major repairs. The poor girls just got hit and that's not a major as I was advised (phew!).

Next week will do my meteo cum navigation bits as I think it would help a lot if I know beforehand what was coming and where I was going ... ha ha. I mean have a clear picture. For the start as there was so much to do and so much going on I had a hazy one and it was not very smart. Thus another lesson learnt. Any tips and advice would be most welcomed.

27 September 2005
Broken rib, damaged spinny, twisted code 0, flat batteries otherwise, sailing was brilliant.

Broken rib the boat not me just in case you were worried. Loved the sailing but hated the starts. Too many boats and that's was how I had a little bump that left my port side a bit damaged. Was a nervous wreck at the start as I had trouble reefing the main as well with the new main. Panicked and was late for the start, of which I wanted so I didn't have to be caught up with the boats in the start, but I had caught up and still landed myself in between boats bump bugger.

Had a wrestling session with my code 0 that night when it refused to furl no matter how hard I tried and eventually I resorted to dropping the halyard and it went down in the drinkÿ at first I was shouting at it then I was begging it to come back when it was trailing in the water was afraid that I'd lose it as it would mean a 24hr penalty.

Had my fair share of spinnaker disasters when it was wrapped round the forestay, lost the sheets, rip in it, etc. Now I do realise how crucial it is to make sure you look after your kites as not having any one of them, you lose out a lot of miles in just a day. Think half of my miles I had lost without a spi on the portside or drying out waiting to be repaired and the other half taking the scenic route, gybing too early or too late. Just to wrap it all up, the batteries were refusing to hold charge and I was running my generator till the cows came home and ran out of petrol so for the last 4 days I was steering the whole time during daylight so I can get enough charge to sleep a little in the nights.

Everyday at 1103 UTC we'd have a meteo forecast and our placements on the SSB radio and when on Sunday there was a gale warning for where I was heading, I almost lost it. Had words with the man up there asking him why . Think this trip was a shakedown for most of us to iron out the little things that need to be sorted out before we make the big crossing. I know I have got a fairly long list already. Thank god Alasdair is here thanks to the Graham and rest back home who sent him here, it was a nice surprise and would be of big help. Before the start there was Shu Fen and it was just a comfort having her there otherwise I'd be in bits by the time the race starts. Thanks girl. Well, a week and a bit on Lanzarote, we'd get Feng back on track ready for the big crossing.

17 September 2005
An email from Elaine before she left La Rochelle.

Hi hi
THE DAY is finally here. Would like to say a very big thank you to each and every one of you who have helped me to be here now. Those who had given me the means to get the boat, all the equipment, a bed to stay for the last week, all the help and support along the way, sponsors, friends & family. I wouldn't be here without all of you. Over the last few days it's been a big whirl for me. Many thanks also to Shu Fen who has been an absolute comfort in the last crazy week.

My promise to you all - will clip on at all times, sail safe and sail fast. This one is for you!

Ciao for now
Elaine & Feng
:O)

See photos of the start here

16 September 2005
It has been busy the last few days. Sleep is scarce as I try to do all that is needed to prepare for the race. Alasdair has arrived from Glasgow, it's great to see him again and he has been of tremendous help ¡V helping me with things on the boat. Most of the other skippers have their co-equippers and therefore some can spare the time to study the weather better. A friend of mine has been sending me weather information and that would definitely help me to get prepared. Thanks, Roger. I owe you a big one.

We are now all back in the Vieux Port, there is a race village as well, it's bustling with activities. There is no shortage of passer-bys, enthusiasts and people you know who would stop by to chat and say hi. There were a group of four year-olds who came back this afternoon and I found out that each of the class was appointed a yacht to monitor its progress for the race, and I was introduced to the class who is following mine. Hey, I have fans! :-)

I came in 15 out of 30 series boats at the prologue race. Juan Carlos, one of the four Spanish entries won the race. There are a total of 16 non-French participants from United Kingdom (3), Spain (4), Austria (1), Slovenia (2), USA (1), Ireland (1), Italy (1), Switzerland (1), Belgium (1) and Singapore (1), the rest of the 56 participants are from France. I'm one of the four female participants, and one of two who are racing a series.

Well, I've had a nice meal this evening with my friends, a comfortable bed to sleep in. There's still some packing to do, that should be sorted out by tomorrow morning. Till then, I want to get out on the water. The logistics and administrative tasks are more tedious!

You can follow the race from www.transat650.org We are expected to arrive in Lanzaronte in about 9-10 days time, and the second start will take place on 8 October 2005. Thanks for all your well wishes and thoughts. Thank you all once again for your support, without it, I wouldn't have been able to make it to the start line.

President of Classe Mini bids farewell	Off we go, being towed to the start	At the start

Shy girl (left)	Farewell entourage	Alasdair was here (right)

13 September 2005
Started the day early with total determination to sort out my rig once and for all. Also, I have to leave the Vieux Port to get to Port Des Minimes at noon. Shortly after I reached the boat, a surprise visitor popped by and saved my day, Marc Lombard dropped by and arranged to meet me at Port Des Minimes to work on the rig together, we did that and went out for a sail to test and tune it. It was a real relief to sort that out, however as luck turns out, my electronics were having a mood swing. Sigh, boats! Shu Fen went out with Marc and I on the sail, and she seemed to enjoy it thoroughly. Poor girl, she's still working during her holiday, but I'm glad she's here. Spent the rest of the day getting ready for the prologue race, luckily Maxine from Incidences Sails and Marc agreed to sail with me at the last minute, if not, I don't think I'll find anyone suitable. Leo and Javier are arriving tomorrow with my SFI food and then it's packing time.

A rare opportunity to clean the hull	And the prologue begins	Opps

12 September 2005
What a day! Don't we all learn new lessons everyday? One I've learned today is not to make major changes to the boat before the start, it just messes up the mind too much. Received a surprise visit from a group of students from the University of La Rochelle. One of them is from China and was curious to find out more about the (other) Asian who is sailing. :-) He and his schoolmates are very keen to try out sailing and had a good chat with them. Some of the French students can even speak and understand Mandarin! Surprise visitors are good sometimes, like how I was going to start fixing the edge of the hatch yesterday and then Javier (the co-owner of the Zero yard) came by and arranged it to be fixed mid-week instead. Went through my security check in the afternoon, passed that and re-packed the boat and sorted out the boxes (i.e things to bring to Lanzarote, things to bring to Brazil, things that should stay in France). Sometime this week, I have my medical check and after that and a few skipper's briefing, what I need to do on the admin front is settled. Dinner's a kebab meal, no surprise. Juan Carlos, one of the Mini skippers brought us to a new kebab place. Kebab meals are good to keep the stomach full and also one of the most affordable meals you can get. Hope tomorrow's a better day. I plan to go out for a sail after the skipper's briefing for the prologue in the morning.

With Marc Lombard	With Patrick (right) and the Uni students

11 September 2005
I actually hoped that I could have a relaxed Sunday, but alas, of course it doesn't happen the way you plan it. :p We went to the Grand Pavois Boat Show in the morning, as I needed to buy some stuff for the race, i.e. lifejacket, a handheld GPS as a spare, and also to look for the Raymarine reps to get my rudder indicators fixed. Got some new lines for my main sail halyard as well. Saw Paul and his friend, John at the boat show as well, and many thanks to them for the lifejacket present. By now, just days before the race, the help, encouragement and support from my friends and family is really what that has brought me this far. And thanks for sending me those emails, I've been reading them at night when I have finished work on the boat, while at the same time I also try to look through and study the weather information. Today, Jean Philippe and Shu Fen helped to stick the main sail stickers on, the RSYC logo, Charente-Maritime and the painting are looking very smart right now, I just wonder how long would they stay up there...

10 September 2005
Wet wet wet. Started the day with a sail out with Marc Lombard, the designer of Feng. He arrived just in time for us to get ready to leave Vieux Port as the gates were scheduled to open at 9.30am. Marc's a cool guy. He looked at the boat thoroughly and told me that there are some things to change. We finished just after noon and were going to get the stickers on my sails done, and bummer it began to pour. It was still pouring when we left Port des Minimes to return back to Vieux Port. The rain took most of the time away and we managed to sort out some small bits before we headed for a kebab meal. And it's a small world instead, bumped into Paul Scholten, a friend back home, on the way to dinner. More familiar faces in La Rochelle!

9 September 2005
The morning routine: wake up at 7am, get into the shower, breakfast at the hostel, and then we're on a 20 min walk to the Vieux Port. Lucky for us today, Tobey, a friend from UK who has just purchased a Zero, he is also considering to race in the 2007 event, gave us a lift in his vintage Volkswagen van. It is one of those converted home vans, really cosy. Went up the mast today to fix the instrument lights, I try to go up the mast at least once every two days for practice (and to enjoy the view, that's secondary). It's going to be thrice as hard when I have to climb up the mast while I'm out at sea. Picked up my new sails from the loft as well, and by the time you know it, the day's almost gone. The sun sets late in La Rochelle, so you can make use of the daylight to spend more time working on the boat. At about 7pm, right opposite us, there was the christening of Roxy Mini with Roxy Open 60 berthed alongside, both looking very smart. Then, there was a party on the beach, by the time we arrived it was almost 10pm. Going for a sail with Marc Lombard, the yacht designer who designed Feng, tomorrow so it'll be an early night. I'm looking forward to that.

8 September 2005
Needless to say, the pressure is building up as we count down to the start of the race. The start's on 17 Sep 05, 17:17hrs. I have a list of preparations to complete. Yeah, everybody has a list fortunately it's not getting longer. Picked up my skipper's documents and sorted out the administrative details with Classe Mini in the morning. Added the sponsors' logos to the hull and patched the step with some epoxy as well, the plastic knives I've been collecting come in handy in situation like this, for spreading epoxy. Attended the skipper's briefing this afternoon at The Aquarium. We were each given a plastic container to store used batteries, which then will be recycled when we returned to shore. Next Wednesday, there is a prologue race where we each bring out a kid from the local school. Each of the skippers would also have to paste a drawing painted by the kids on our main sail. Here we go, the Mini sailors of the future!

Feng at the Vieux Port in La Rochelle	The Pilot Gals - Meet Sally, Sandra & Shyenne	Up the mast

7 September 2005
My only friend visiting me in La Rochelle is arriving today. Shu Fen flew in from Southampton after spending a week in England, and we will check in today at the Auberge de Jeunesse, the youth hostel and most affordable accommodation in La Rochelle. We went down to Port des Minimes, where the boat is, Maxine from LOFT sailmakers and I are going out for a short sail today and thereafter the boat would have to be based in Vieux Port with the rest of 71 Minis. The Grand Pavois Boat Show begins today as well too, and the city of La Rochelle is packed with boat-nuts, two from Singapore. :-) In the evening, there was a gathering for the Mini Transat skippers. After a round of cocktails, we headed for dinner at a French Goth/Punk pub/restaurant with a few other skippers, where they served a good plate of pasta. It was also one of the most diverse group of people I've dined with, two Brits, a Swiss German, a Spaniard, a French, a Slovenian and two Singaporeans.

1 September 2005 07:35 (GMT +8)
Missing!?!

Went off to the Zone Technique to get a couple of screws for the new traveler system and ran some paper work errands for a while. When I got back to the Vieux Port (where all the 72 Minis are berthed before the start), saw Proform the Open 60 maneuvering to get ready when the bridge opened and I thought to myself, whoa, wish I could have a sail on one of those... Then I looked over to where I had left Feng and it was empty. My heart stopped, thought I must be silly, how could the boat be missing? Maybe it was just blocked from my view by the other motorboat where I was parked behind. Scanned quickly for the mast ... one of the few times I wish I had a normal silver mast instead of a black one, which would be easier to spot, but nothing. My heart began to race... steps quickened and I told myself how could one lose a boat in broad daylight. Down the ramp and to the empty spot. Did a silly thing to see if I could see the top of the mast just below the surface of the water, but we had only 2.5m of water in there, I would have been able to see a good part of the mast if it did sink. Scanned around the rest of the basin to see if it was shifted elsewhere... nope. Was in panic mode now. Saw Pierre on 396 on his boat and ran across to ask if he seen my boat. He looked at me with the look of 'what do you mean you lost your boat?' on his face. We called Muriel (of Classe Mini, the organizer) to ask if she knew what was going on. She said she would check and call me back. After what seemed like the longest 45mins, she called back to say that the Capitaneire had pulled the wrong boat out to the other harbour. They were given a list of who's in the race and the rest had to stay out of the basin. Of course I'm a DCQ (wildcard entry) and was not on the main list, but at the bottom in a different section. Feng was tied up with 4 other Minis that were not racing through the second bridge at the back.

I hadn't realise how much the boat meant to me till then. Feng had become a part of me and I felt momentarily lost when she was gone. I guess it was also the fact that I had come so far in the project and with two weeks to go it is the worst scenario to happen if I were to lose the boat. In the 45 mins, I had thought of all the people that I had believed in me, put in time, effort and money in helping me along, this would be a huge disappointment. Anyway, all is good now big scare is over. More and more Minis are starting to arrive and slowly I am starting to get to know the rest of the sailors and boats. By next week, the basin would be rocking with 72 Minis... what a sight that would be... deja vu!

25 August 2005 23:00 (GMT +8)
24 days to go...

Feng sat there patiently in Uchimata the yard at zone technique till I got back, didn't move a bit, not when it poured and blew with dust from all the boats being worked on all around. Her decks were covered in dust and little grey water puddles, it's the dirtiest she's every been and being on the hard way up there, can't give her a good scrub. will have to wait till Friday.

We go straight to the viex port where we would be till the start of the race. There are a few of us already there and some up on the hard. can feel the excitement building as THE day is getting closer. can't wait to see my new sails as well, they arrive next weekend, hope they will be okay and no major drama.... Over the next few days is to get all the gear fitted and one last final testing to make sure all is good.

19 August 2005 22:00 (GMT +8)
To all my fellow sailors and friends. It was a great party at BQ bar. Thanks to everyone who bought drinks, tees, gloves and also made generous donations. Sorry for not spending much time with each of you as I just had so little time. I promise I’d catch up when I’m over there. Shu Fen had taken pictures of last night. You can go to the website www.shufen.net to see them. Once again, many thanks for all the support.

16 August 2005 23:00 (GMT +8)
Back home....The clock's ticking... four weeks to the start. All of us are taking a well needed break from the boats before getting back to get stuck in getting our bathtubs ready. The last two weeks spent getting Feng up on the hard and derigged so that I can give her a good once over when I get back. When we return there would be the Grand Pavois thus plenty of boats to go in the water. Good job I had already booked my slot. now the mission is to get all sorted out and done before the time. Came back to Singapore for my break. I was really good to see family and friends. Popped by Raffles Marina where they were holding the annual Western Circuit Sailing Regatta. It was great to see all my friends again and that they are still very much behind me in this campaign. It was a real boost as some time, I did feel that I was all alone in this over there. I tried very hard to hold back, bit my lip and thought 'don't be silly, nothing to cry about'. Capt Marty who has been covering my progress in www.asianyachting.com was also there and topped up my stock of go fast gloves. A very big thank you to Drew Gardenier of Frank International, Brian Hill (Zewmar), Graham (Sumatra), Jono (Happy endings), Gordon (Shoon Fung Too) and anonymous contributors. Now I am able to get new sails to replace the very tired ones for the big crossing. Tomorrow there would be a big farewell cum fundraising held at the hottest bar in town, BQ bar over at Boat Quay organised by Jeremy and Saskia of Scallywag. For more info.

1 August 2005 15:00 (GMT +8)
Shit Happens… just go around it. You know when sometimes you plan to do something but then something else happens and it throws a spanner in the works. Was well and prepared to do the sail to port bourgendy to race the Transgascogne as a pirate but what happens the day before? I broke a screw of a stanchion… bugger! Had to wait for Monday for a welder and got that sorted out and left Tuesday. Had no 2nd autopilot, no music and no solar panels as what this trip was intended to test out so was just on a sail train if you want to call it. Wasn’t too bad, tried sally out for the consumption and she was great, she drove all the time except for when we had the big kite up and a blow on the first night and all I had to use the generator for was 2 hrs. Finally I get the idea how some can just let the pilot steer for days on end. Also had a fair but of what to do when you’re going nowhere, spent about 15hrs doing that. It’s okay if there are no tankers and fishing boats about and in daylight. Sod’s law would have it, it had to be night for me. Headed back home when I had enough. Next week I pack the boat up and head home for a much awaited break from Feng and to see family and friends. Can’t wait! 

22 July 2005 23:00 (GMT +8)
Time flies...Been already three weeks I have been in La Rochelle, think it was a good time to be here. there was the Global Challenge fleet here (... memories...) , the party after London got to hold the 2012 Olympics, Bastille day and the 6 day long Franco follies. Got to see what the place is really like other than just the sea, think I get the record for the number of times rounding Fort Boyard in three weeks. One thing I have learnt is not to sail on weekends alone... beaucoup bateau! (many boats) and trying to drop the sails, turn the engine on, put mooring lines and fenders out within a small channel when the tide is low and many boats doing the same and just to add to the fun blowing 15-20knts from behind. Have learnt my lesson after one Sunday and never again unless there was someone else. Too much for the heart! Have managed to do a few changes to Feng but the major ones will have to wait till I find more sponsors, I’ll just have to make do with what I have and hope it makes it all the way. Sunday I head to join the rest of the 70 Minis for the Transgascogne but just for one leg and I’m starting my race from La Rochelle and ending in La Rochelle. Two aims for this trip, to see how I do against the other zero just to see if I’m sailing okay and to see if I can do with just what I have at the moment for the Transat. Eric and HP from Lombard have been down to the boat to help me sort out some questions I have as well so it was great, we'd see how we do next week. Would have been nice to be in the race but the entry fees would be paying for my mooring here for 5 weeks, so decision was made to go as a pirate. Race site is at www.transgascogne.com, don't think I’ll get a mention but just hope I can get in some pictures while pottering for the start line! Let’s hope the winds would be good and I don’t blow up Marine's small kite as well. A prochaine semaine!

12 July 2005 11:00 (GMT +8)
Deja vu. Four years ago I arrived La Rochelle on the 72ft Challenge yachts. This time I am here with one 1/3 the size. When I saw the boats again in the harbour beside the aquarium, memories flooded back. It seemed like only last year, how time flies. Met John, one of my crewmates then is now one of the reserved skippers in this years race. Interesting to see from the outside how we were like then. Tomorrow I’ll go out with Feng to say goodbye to the race that started me sailing.

Had been busy just getting Feng sorted out and she's now got fluro orange keel and rudders, Toby, a to be Mini sailor, came around when we were on the hard to see the boat and decide if he wanted to get one. I thought I’d scared him off as I used his van as my ladder to get up to the boat, was all grubby with antifouling on eday and orange fluro the next, on the contrary, other than driving me around the marina and zone technique for the few days, even had a Chinese chow mien cooked out from the back of the van! 

Little modifications on the boat and the running back to and fro the zone technique takes up a fair bit of time. Have been out sailing a bit as well but can practice with the kite as I have only my big spinny left. The small one is in sort of a write off state. To have it repaired is almost as much as getting a new one. But at the moment, neither is an option as there are insufficient funds. Have just patched my Genoa and mainsail yup as well. Very understandable, have done over 5000nm with the boat since I got here and the sails are tired. Let’s hope when I send of the challenge boats tomorrow, some of the sponsorship would rub off ...

1 July 2005 15:00 (GMT +8)
Re-vamp! Righty, main idea to come to La Rochelle so early is so that I can get Feng ready for the big race. Preparations for the Transat and for the races I have done are totally different. Lots more to do and think about. Now that I have completed all my necessary miles and hopefully have put the Zero down as a series, I can concentrate on getting a sponsor for the race and the boat race ready. Aim is to get her ready by the Transgascogne at the end of July where I would be able to test all systems out and see if all works well. Should all go well, I would be able to take a much needed break and head hope for a couple of weeks to see family and friends.

This weekend the boat is taken out of the water so that I can get the keel and rudders painted orange florescent and also sand the bottom a little so that I can go just that bit faster. Not sure if that works but I would try what ever helps!

29 June 2005 22:00 (GMT +8)
On the road again (not exactly) …

Arrived La Rochelle after a somewhat interesting convoyage from Dournanez. Six of us set out early Monday morning heading south. Nice light breeze in the bay and we had our kites up and gybed at Point Raz to start heading south. It was my first time sailing with not racing with other Minis and it was good fun, called each other on the VHF and trotted along. As the afternoon wore on, wind started to die and the current started to turn against us. It was not getting any better and David, marine and I started our engines and towed the others. David ran out of petrol and at one point there were three of us in a tow and we were heading for Concarnu for a refill.

Before we reached, the wind filled a little and then we carried on sailing towards south. That night was extremely foggy, I couldn’t see David who was just sailing alongside. We put blinkers on in the hope of seeing each other but no luck thus sailed along thru the night in thick fog. Think in such situations, autopilot works the best as you just cannot have a fixed heading to steer for you kept falling off course. Well at least there was wind for the rest of the way.

Approaching La Rochelle in the night was not the best. I didn’t know the area and had my big kite up and it was blowing 15 gusting 18 sometimes. As I had blown my small one I just had only the big one. What amazed me was the current that was around the bay at one point I had the kite up and it was 10 knots and I was making 2 knots over the ground. Incredible. What’s more it was low tide as well thus had about 0.6m under the keel … think I am going to have fun training round theses parts of france.

27June 2005 15:00 (GMT +8)
To the rock and back...

The Mini Fastnet , a 700nm race to the infamous Fastnet rock and back. Enroute battling currents to make course markers that we have to obey for the race course and sometimes if in a bad year you get alot alot of wind. This was Feng's 1st race in the Atlantic and I think this was a good introduction for her as compared to her first race in the Mediterranean where we got absolutely hammered by the weather. This race was like a walk in the park (weather wise) considering you hear many stories of bad weather rounding this rock.

Before we left the forecast was for not a lot of breeze so I was not so nervous but after being in the med, I was still edgy as anything can happen with the weather. Also this time I once again I sail with someone I have not met before. Jeff was supposed to do the race with Jannus but he had to pull out due to work commitments thus I nicked his crew. Fortunately, Jeff was able to come by earlier so we can stick in a day of getting - to- know- you sail. Was good as then we can fully be able to race the boat instead of going, how is this done in a middle of a maneuver and competition just close by. So off we went and there was contemplation about whether to bring the generator or not juts in case. We brought it along in the end but we had not had to use it at all the solar panels charged fine. Had we had to use it I’d have been a bit sheepish as I realised I had left the cable on the dock ... :OP. Hey there were 85 boats racked up four out each so you can imagine how the pontoons looked like and ropes and cable extensions everywhere. It was so cool though to see all the boats in the start line and I had my heart in my mouth as well as I had the Genoa up and it was less maneuverable but we stayed a little away from the rest as it was a long race, didn't want to crash before the start. After that it was when the fleet started to disperse in the different tacks. It was then I realised that I was suffering on one tack as I was being overtaken and on the starboard we'd catch up again and this just went on and one till after we passed Quessant and my biggest fear came true it was a port tack all the way to the rock. Ouch! Well the good thing was that we arrived at the Fastnet just at the break of day so I managed to see the rock and spirits were up as that meant it was going to be the kite back until we saw one of the others round it and came back with the code 0 and I just went 'NO!!! These boats are supposed to race downwind!' Sigh but hey at least we were going to be on Starboard so that was a consolation. We caught up with some boats throughout the day and then we were hoping that the winds would stay as it is and we'd be able to cut losses and try and catch up. Didn't last long. by night fall we ran out of wind and was flopping everywhere for a while kite, no kite, gybe, gybe, Genoa, kite arghh...zzz... and then it filled back in and then we had it from the NE bugger! Back on port tack again and painfully watched those that we passed pass us again. We had the kite up a bit later and the winds picked up and it was so cool surfing down the waves and just hearing the rush of the water, it seems alot faster in the night. Jeff took Feng to her record speed at 13.4knts. Had a good learning lesson on surfing waves with Jeff. But also an expensive one. Blew my small kite in a bad broach. Whops and mega ouch, am hoping that it would be repaired as I don't have enough to replace one at the moment. We had to cut the tack line to get the kite down at one of the drops as the sheeve split so we had only the core spectra left and it got jammed on the winch.

Coming into the bay of Dournanez we had 7 others charging down under spinnys and it was very tense and coming nearer to the finish one of the others said we didn't see you at the mark, puzzled I asked what mark. We had missed one of the last markers in the course. Whops, hung around the finish line till we got confirmation that we'd get a penalty not a disqualification otherwise I would have said we go back to the mark.

On the overall we came in 55th. Am happy as the main aim of this race was to finish so I can race in the series class in the Mini Transat. Would have been nice to have done better but that's not a problem. Now I can concentrate on getting the major sponsor for the Transat now that I have completed all the necessary miles that I need to be at the start and in the right class. Now it's time to get the boat ready for the big race. Have chatted with some of the have - doners and the preparation is very different from the main race and these short races so I have a fair job list waiting for me in the coming month. Also the hunt for the main race sponsor will be at its maximum drive.

16 June 2005 15:00 (GMT +8)
Boat on wheels ... not good.

Think boats are better on water, Feng arrived Dournanez with a bit of a mishap but all is good. Professionals have said she's alright. It’s like having a kid, but instead you bring the doctor to the boat instead. She’s well and ready to race. Meeting my crew, Jeff, tomorrow yes, yet again I sail with someone I don't know. Am getting used to this. We'd go out for a little sail in Dournanez bay for Jeff to get used to Feng. I must say I have not seen that many Minis in one place before ... 84 boats. Think it's probably one of the biggest one design fleet around. Interesting when sometimes you get people from all different countries seated at the same table for a meal.

Getting a bit better at French, had just went for a safety course in La Trinite where there was Thierry Dubois as the instructor. whom better to give us the course than the man who has lost two boats and have done the vendee twice before to give us tips. Learnt a lot specifically for solo/Mini sailing and it was great that he made the effort to explain important things in English as well.

Well, am very much looking forward to the next race. After this the zero would be a series so I would be racing in the proper class in the Transat. The Mini Fastnet is one of the most popular race in the circuit thus there are still over 10 people waiting to get in. same as the Odyssee D'ulysse, we have got balises on board so you'd be able to track us online. Race website is at www.winchesclub.com/fastnet650

Fingers crossed I get on the right side of the currents here ...

1 June 2005 09:00 (GMT +8)
Off to the Atlantic... (coast, I mean) Someone tell me that Mini races do have downwind runs! The Mini solo over the weekend was up wind to guissan and then no wind (as in really no wind, 0.6knts at one point!) then when it filled in in the early hours of the morning guess where it came from, on the nose. Am slowly starting to suspect that I might have started my sailing career out on the wrong race, heading against the wind and current in the BTGC, thus majority of the times now we've been having upwinds more. Whops? Upwind all the way to Brazil would be painful. The Mini solo was great for me as it was the first time I was racing alone with other Minis. Day one was really trying for me as the boat was not going up to normal speed and I was just getting frustrated and was trying every thing to get it to go a bit faster. 3/4 way up the course you see the Farr 40 charging down with the spinnaker and you do feel slightly demoralised even if you know that they are twice as long as you of course they go a lot faster upwind but still!!! Then three miles to the mark I saw Alex Pella with Open Sea charging down with it's kite ... nooooo. The fore runners gaine a few good miles on the rest of us before the window closed and many of us were drifting at the top mark for a good few hours till the wind filled back. This time, Feng was in top form and charging along. Was a happy girl only for the fact that it was not a kite run. but managed to get the code 0 up in the last hour and charged along. 

Made a couple of silly mistakes in this race that probably lost me a couple of spots. What a shame, we live and learn. Next stop Dournanez for the Mini Fastnet. Am now getting her ready for trucking... absolute nightmare for me, boat on wheels.

27 May 2005 15:00 (GMT +8)
And finally the last of it all ...The only thing I have not gotten whilst sailing in the med is rain. Sure enough I was not going to get away with it and in the Course Du Lion, we got hammered by a thunderstorm as the fleet came up from Areneys to the porquerolles. First it came as a short shower, then another and when we saw the next one, David and I looked at each other and said ' think this one might be a bit longer...' Sure enough, we were absolutely soaked and there was lightning and thunder. Somewhere in the midst , we heard the BMS (Bulletin Meteo Special) of a gale warning force 9. 'thanks, but I think your a bit late!' don’t think we had that much as we were by then at the porquerolles and that was for Marseille. It's been upwind all the way so it was good that the organisers called for a stop at St Rapheal till the weather got better. Left again on the following Thursday and this time we had about 12 hours of upwind and then it was spinny up and blast away. Arrived Port Carmargue early evening which was great as we had thought that we'd be back on Sat morning only. This race had a lot more close boat to boat sailing as we were always constantly in sight with at least 3 or 4 boats. My co-equipper, David has a Super Calin called Lady Poulette, had been a great asset in this race, had learnt lots of tips and tricks and also with him comes local knowledge and also the sailors sailing style. We finished overall 14th. Am happy as I have completed my last 200 racing miles (have got an extra 300 now). This Sat is the Mini solo of which I’d race, we never learn do we, we forget the ugly bits very fast. Fingers crossed that the weather gods would be nice. it's 110nm from Port Carmargue to Guissan and back. Will let you know how we do... ciao. 

6 May 2005 15:00 (GMT +8)
Day 1
Sails prepped, water and food loaded was an hour earlier than intended ETD but was ready so headed out. Was intending to leave the day before but it was still blowing 5s and 6s out there. Thought better and stayed for another day. Jure mentioned that it would be a bit lumpy and windy for the arvo then it would clam by the night. Had a beautiful sail and managed to do a sun sight. Porquerolles here we come.

Day 2
Arghhh… porquerolles. Stuck here with no wind. Was told to visit the place if I had some time as it was very pretty. Yes but not like that! Spent the whole night there what a waste of time, wonder if I should have stayed outside of the islands. Winds not much more but kites up. Lots of fog can’t see anything. Spoke to La Sieta signal station to inform other passing ships to keep an eye out for me. Not sure if they did but at least I tried. Am a bit scared as you can hear all the shipping talk on the VHF. I am calling the ship at whatever this is the French navy/ something signal station, do you read me? Every time I just have a look at the GPS and then phew. Far away from where I am. 

Day 3
Finally rounded the Gulf Du Lion bouy at 1600hrs. How embarrassing taking so long to cover 165nm. Not a lot of wind, thought at this rate, trip might take a lot longer than I thought. Very weird to see a bouy in the middle of nowhere. Was looking around for it as I heard that it was hard to find it. Lucky for me the seas were flat as and I saw it like a firefly in the night. Mark 1 check! These few days had every single big sail up and have decided, the small spin is the best and has the biggest range. Code 0 needs a bit of work, too long. 

Day 4
Would have been nice to have some music, Sangean died when it got waterlogged in the 1st half. Lesson learnt, waterproof the thing! Sallys been acting funny as well, she doesn’t seem to want to steer in the set direction for more than about 20-30 mins. Been trying to get her to work properly but no avail so just have to keep watch on her and try and get some rest when I can. Winds on the nose the whole night and only finally got to Barcelona buoy at 1400. Mark 2 check! Winds from the back now, spinnys up and screaming along. It’s Sat so lots of boats around, nice to see other boats and land after a few days of fog and nothing. Was very careful when hoisted the kite as there were many eyes around and didn’t want to look stupid. Whoosh! Winds picked up to 18s to 20s and I think I had some eyes turning when I zoomed past. Made up the distance that I took the whole night to cover up wind. Only thing was that when the winds got strong, I didn’t really know how to take the kite down. So just left it up and hope for the best.

Day 5
Heading back up to the GDL buoy, kite is still up. Managed to gybe the kite without taking it down. Went a bit too far when was contemplating the gybe. Bugger! Winds picked up again but knew there was nothing to run into so just went with it in the dark. Top speed 13.3knts, sally managed a 12.7! Wipee, then decided to try her on wind mode, trucking along, then was just watching her go along …. Zzzz… . Was not sure if I was awoken by the Chinese gybe or the sudden silence. What I saw took a moment to register. The kite was down to leeward in between the solent and mast, the mainsail was held on the windward side by the preventer and the solent was backed. Had a bit of a laugh and asked myself what was I going to do now. Before I could say better get the preventer off before it snaps. ‘Bang!’ it went and the boat rounded up into the wind and every thing was flogging and I scrambled to tyr and get the kite down and the boat was really heeled by then. Blew the tack and halyard and took a while to drag the kite back in. was worried that it’ll get caught round the keel. Finally all under control damage check. Only a block spins all good . Phew!

Day 6
Rounded boy at 1230. Home run! Only thing is that winds are on the nose. Sigh, hope I don’t get caught like the last time at the porquerolles again. Arghh…. De ja vu! Stuck on the west of the porquerolles having strong east winds. Have not slept and am determined to get past these islands by the morning thus want to helm as much as I can. Yawn. 

Day 7
Still at the porquerolles! Someone please bomb these islands away. Finally in daylight tack lead me in between the islands and had a bit of a scenic sail thru the islands and up the coast. Finally we are getting home. 50 miles to go! There this evening. Good got no food left, just red bull and sachets of nutri fiber (thanks mom!). Winds died just off St Tropez. My hopes for getting in by the night were gone. Had a couple of sail changes till winds decided and finally it was the kite again but off course about 30 degrees. Thought no prob, we’d just gybe. 10 miles off at about 12 midnight, gybed and then the winds died… Sods law. Left staring at the coast of the bay but not getting there. Very cruel. Suddenly, whoosh, winds picked up to 15knts and from all over the place. Had the kite down and back to solent and 2nd reef and tacking and bearing away for the next two hours to get to Villefranche bay. Then as expected, winds died at the mouth. Looked at the GPS, 1.67nm. Right, that’s enough, engine on and we went in. we are allowed to use the engine 2 mile from the harbour. Arrived Port de Lar Darse at 530 in the morning, 1305.23nm later. Shattered, moored myself in the working dock till I’m told where to go in the morning. Put all things away and crashed on the spin (the dry one). Awoke at 1030 and went to the Capitaniere (cap on as had bad hair!) Finally we have completed the 1000nm.Lessons learnt from this trip. Definitely Sally needs a mate. Would invest in a separate ST 4000 which is totally independent of all other for the Transat. It really is very trying if you have to steer, can’t go anywhere when there is wind and it’s not very nice neither can you amuse yourself when there is very little winds and you are going only at 1 knot. Music is a definate. Think I might just go with normal speakers mounted in the insides that run of double As and just have the solar panels recharge them. Many things need to be more waterproofed and strapped down more and need to figure out how to move things around more efficiently when needed. Was only playing with 50 liters of water, on the actual race there would be 100L. h-e-l-p … . At this point I would like to say a very big thank you to Jure for keeping me posted with weather smss’ thru the days. Weather forecast is so important I am beginning to realize. It’s down as one of my things to brush up on in the next few months. Getting forecasts is one thing being able to use it to your benefit and wisely is another. Next stop Port Carmargue for the Course Du Lion. This would complete my 1000nm racing. Check back to see how I do in the race www.societe-nautique.com

A tout a leur 

25 April 2005 16:00 (GMT +8)
Deja vu? Am updating this on my stop back in Villefranche. Had set out for my 1000nm qualifiers that was to bring us round tip of Corsica down to Giannutri along the Italian coast back up tip of Corsica then across to Gulf du Lion down to Barcelona back up to the Gulf and back here. Left for Villefranche on Wednesday afternoon, had a bit of wind on the nose for the rest of the afternoon but it died down in the night. Both situations I thought I had left at the wrong time. But what transpired over the next few days had be thanking god that I had left then.

It took us 36 hours to get to the tip of corsica (100nm) which was really not good looking at the time I wanted to clock. but then winds came and I was nicely making my way down the channel then wallowed a bit for an hour around isola d'elba for about an hour then was off again. Beautiful spinaker run down to Giannutri. Arrived Gianuttri in the wee hours of the morning. Pheweet! what a pretty island, against the rising sun as well I was thinking to myself I have to sometimes take time off to sail and visit places like that and not always charge pass them. Had a nice run back up till almost at the tip of corsica again and that was when the winds started to increase way too much and by midnight I was with 3rd reef and storm jib and sometimes surfing along at 12.7knts. Sheesh! Nice speed but was a bit scary in the beginning as there would be a loud roar of a wave, you feel the boat getting picked up then you start to steer so you don't fall off, water rushing on both sides of the hull, there is a moment of silence as you watch the speed just climb, then rush of water again and you slosh till you get the next wave. Great but was really tired as Sally was not working well and I was worried to let her drive any mistake would be quite nasty. Then by 5am in the morning, I really had to rest , gave sally a go, strapped my kicker to the side so we don't do a chinese gybe, went down stairs and sat to try and rest and recharge. Sally was brilliant for that time. never had any problems and she and feng just worked together well. Fell asleep and suddenly awoke, instant thought again was to check if I had hit something or was rocked. But if I had hit something it would have been hard, then check the time to see how long I was out. What had happened was that winds had died. So out came the reefs and was back up to Genoa again. was great for a couple of hours and had a couple more cat naps, finally recharged a little, winds had swung a bit back so stuck the small kite up. hungry so heated a SFI food pack (pasta with shredded chicken) hmmm yummy as the last time I had a meal was before the winds came the afternoon before.

VHF weather comes on at 1300 hours and there was a gale warning for where I was heading, heyers / porquerolles. "great" just my luck. VHF back to 16, sangean away then went back on deck and from then on it went down hill. Spin right down to 3rd reef and storm jib in and hour. here we go again. Started to head along the direction of the coast so if it really gets bad I go in. Got absolutely hammered on the way in saw 30, 31, 32 and gusting more. decision made that I go in when my mast hit the water. Looked up immediately to see if instruments and all were okay. Thank god for life lines as I might have been flushed off, both rope bags were saved by the guardrails. Usually you hear the roar of the waves before they hit but this one was a silent one, thus was unprepared for it.

Finally arrived in villefranche bay and it all was calm, had trouble to make the last one mile as the winds were all over the shop in the bay. Eventually at 2000, we crossed he finish.

Many thanks to Jure Jermain for sending me updates via SMS. Am now looking at the weather and looking like i'd go tomorrow.

12 April 2005 22:00 (GMT +8)
Odyssee D’Ulysse

Feng’s first Mini race. What a race. Not sure if you have been following the race site www.odysseedulysse.com but the fleet had a bit of wind towards the last days of the race. 12 out of 21 boats finished, dismastings, helicopter airlifts and boats pulled into port due to equipment failure.

The start on Sunday was delayed buy 5 hours to let a system pass by. Was all excited as well as apprehensive as there was the start line with 20 other boats and the upcoming few days with a crew I had just met. We had bad start an got caught up with little wind and lumpy seas and ended up the last leaving the bay. But it was a long race so there was time to catch up. Couple of hours later we started to see little lights and crept past the first one and by morning I’d realized that 1/2 the fleet had parked. ‘Yippee!’ I thought as the race begins here again. Feng performed brilliantly in light winds and we managed to pass a couple of boats. Then night fell and all was a guessing game again. 

The next day we were making for Bonafacio and there was a fair bit of wind and coming directly from the straits as well. Funny how its always like that. Managed to bash thru it and took the scenic (and also the shorter route thru to the other side and it was very pretty, winds were light and it somewhat seem like a cruise at some point. But I would definitely not go thru that if it was night. The following morning we realized that we were with 4 other boats tacking up on the west of the island. Knew that I would be distracted watching the other boats so I decided to do a long take out. Had a good run past Spartiviento and as we came north it was when it all started. 

Winds started to pick up and the sails got smaller and we got wetter. Couldn’t get any weather report as I think my VHF was acting up again so we were just sailing the boat . The waves started to get a lot bigger and we were just slamming into them at some points. Every time we fell off a wave and slammed I’d freeze and wait to hear a massive crack or split or something but there never was. It was like déjà vu of the big waves but only this time I was on a smaller boat. Hanns had the joy of being on the helm when we got slammed broadside by a massive one and he said that the masthead was not far off the surface. Then the breeze just climbing and then it was time for the trysail to surface we were on a big heel with just the 3rd reef and the storm jib. There is a cross over point where the waves were being flatted by the winds and we were not slamming any more but just on a big heel. First time I saw my trysail, 4sqm and with the storm jib, we were still making 5s and 6s. 

For the next two days we probably did the more sail changes than we had in the first days of the race. The winds and seas were just chaotic. We were sat for a while with no a lot of wind and were wondering of we had passed it or were sitting in the centre of the storm. We were in the centre. Hanns and I were by that time really had just about enough of the fluky winds. One moment we’d be hanging on with Minimal sails and then the wind would easy of and we’d feel a little stupid with little sails and then without warning you get hit again, it was as if someone was watching that the moment we stick more cloth up they’d turn the wind knob up. 

Ran out of gas halfway as well so had just the SFI survival rations to get by. Thank god for that as trying to eat rehydrated meals crunchy would not be as palatable. Hanns took to SFI’s army rations well and was impressed by it. Proper meat something rare in offshore racing. 

Got just pushed around by the wind for the whole of Sunday night and come Monday morning when we were in the front of the harbour, sod’s law there was no wind. Boy were we glad to arrive. 

Feng finished 12th but am glad that we arrived safe and sound with not much damage (a bent pushpit and a lost lifebuoy). Would like to take this opportunity to thank Hanns my co equipper as he was as good as it gets. It’s not everyday that you meet another the day before a 800nm race and get along. God must have sent him as with conditions we had it would have been interesting if we couldn’t get along.

Somehow I find myself timing things ‘perfectly’. Arrived Spain and was told that it was the coldest winter they have had for a while and it actually snowed in Barcelona! Now I race my first Mini race and I get caught up in the med’s worst storm they have seen in over 30 years. Let’s just hope that for my upcoming qualifiers, things would be okay.

1 April 2005 18:00 (GMT +8)
Think April fools day is the last on everyone’s mind at the moment. All the 21 boats are buys as hell trying to get all sorted and ready to go for the race this Sunday. Been a taxing time for me as I had to get the boat ready for racing from the yard in Tarragona then sail her to Villefranche for the race.

Sailing over here was a really good training experience for me. The gods must be putting me thru a testing period as I had almost everything except over force 5 winds. Had no engine when I left as it was not working, two hours after leaving the harbour in Tarragona, Sally (the autopilot) decided that she doesn’t want to work. at that point in time, I was considering if I should head back and get it sorted and try again or just lob it. Decided the latter. Boy was it one trip. It was alright till I got to the gulf du lion where there was a fair bit of wind and I had no ilot to do sail changes and reefs. When the wind is on the nose, I lost the miles I had gained and I was stuck in one area for a whole day just trying to get past. At one point I was wondering what had I done wrong!?! but then all wind died and I was left drifting or basically just floating along, land (the porquerolles) on my left and the shipping lane on my right. And o top it all off I could not see anything as there was thick fog. at that point in time, I was not sure which one i'd prefer lots of wind but at least I’m moving or no wind and can't see anything with danger on either side. What do you prefer? I just stared at the mer ville (the radar detector) and just hoped that it would not beep at all. Then finally when it was light, we started to move and fast as well. So it was looking good till I arrived at the last 20 miles of the journey where I stopped completely again. It was the most gorgeous view of the coast of antibes, nice and villefranche but after 4 days I really wanted to just get in. the stars and the moon were reflected in the water as well so you can just about imagine that I was not going anywhere. Sigh, took out a packet of food (of which I must say thanks to SFI the food at least is still palatable when it's cold) and sat there had dinner and enjoyed the view. Arrived the following day creeping at snails pace into the harbour and what a sight to see all the Minis there. I had to just try to moor the boat without crashing into anyone so as not to make a bad impression. Had my heart in my mouth then I tell you.

Before I forget this trip was really great in regards to wildlife, had dolphins everyday, birds who took shelter from the cold each night, only that they just crapped everywhere.... The best was the whales. Yes I saw whales! Was not sure at first but had another good look as they were just beside the boat. Initial reaction was my keel! but they just glided by and played around for a bit and left.

Minis Minis everywhere but have not yet anytime to see what others have done. Have been on my own till now. Lots to do and am having it really full on. but today finally all is set, just have to give her a bit of a wash and i'm there. Tomorrow there's a prologue i'd be able to see how I fare amongst the rest of the sailors. Very excited.

They have given us a tracking device so follow the race on www.odysseedulysse.com and see how I fare!

A bientot!

21 March 2005 15:00 (GMT +8)
Now I really can understand that every little thing counts when it comes to sailing with identical boats. We were out on the water with two zeros and boy was it an eye opener, what a little bit of tweaking and shifting of weight does to one's height and speed. This is what I call training. 1st stage of getting to know you has passed, now we move to stage two, how to make her go a bit faster. What better way than to sail with similar boats. Unfortunately no 12 belonging to Roland had to go early or otherwise it would be perfect to see how the 3 boats would have sailed together.

Feng is just off the yard from a refit just to rearrange a few things and get some new additions where I finally decide what I was comfortable with. Interesting to see what the other boat's had done as well. Good news is that Blue Wave Rigging has come in to sponsor me for my rigging throughout the campaign. Yippee! What more can I ask for not having to worry about replacement rigging which is important.

Now getting the boat ready for her first taste of sailing in the Med. Bright and early tuesday morning we'd start and then make our way slowly out to edge of the infamous Gulf Du Lion and see how the weather is before deciding to lob it across or stick close to shore. it's approx. a 350nm trip and I hope to make it there by fri morning. Please god let me have fair winds and a good trip.

8 March 2005 22:00 (GMT +8)
Yard work ... a necessity to get her ready for the upcoming season. Guess what? I have been awarded a DCQ, Yippee! That means now I have only to clock 1000nm solo sailing non stop not in any race and 1000nm racing miles on Feng and I’m on my way to the start line in La Rochelle. Phew, it was a really worrying period for me as it always over subscribed and there's a huge waiting list. Fortunately Singapore's not part of the EU so I can fall under a separate category, otherwise I can only dream about doing the 2005 and more realistically the 2007.

Now is to get Feng race ready and have been back in the yard getting things refitted, changed and reinforced. It's still freezing here, when is summer arriving? Thank goodness I can stay at Javier's / Leo's place or the guys might find me frozen in the boat in the morning when they come to the factory. I have to start getting used to the weather...

Looking at all my gear spread out on the floor I keep telling myself its for 6 months, it gets lesser. Someone's gonna get gear of me for sure if I were to be still carrying all these things on the race. Too heavy not competitive lah!

3 March 2005 18:00 (GMT +8)
Back in Espana! Ola que ta? My Spanish has to be dug out from the back of my mind, amazingly I managed to get by, think I increased my vocabulary by 20 words this time. Well, also part learning French (well at least trying!) so get a bit mixed up at times. Feng arrived perfectly, many thanks to APL once again, was popped onto a truck and then trucked over to Tarragona where the Zero's new factory was.

I must say that I hadn't thought it'll be that cold here in Spain. Had a bit of a shock when I saw snow when I woke up the other morning, was tucked up nicely in the sleeping bag and really didn't want to step out. Thought to myself boy am I going to pile on the layer when I go out to sea. Today I was hosing the boat off before I could get any work done on it, had my boots of so I didn't get it wet, big mistake, almost froze them off! But at least I had them dry so I can have warm feet for the rest of the day. Tomorrow, we start proper to get the work done on the boat.

It's good to have Feng in sight again.

24 February 2005 10:00 (GMT +8) 
This is it ... am now back in Europe to sail with the rest of the Minis. It's all come so fast from the 1st day I came up to get the boat then back in Asia for a couple of months to try and gather more sponsorship.

Was hard at the airport this time, in an ideal world, I would have family and friends with me throughout the next few months but hey reality bites, I don't. BUT due to technology nowadays, they are just a click way on email or a couple of ring tones away on phone. Sitting on the plane I reflected over the last few months, it has been great. Many friends have given their support one way or another and I’m comforted to know that I am not alone. Reading a card that I was given had tears filling my eyes and had the chap next to me worried for a bit.

Landing at Charles de Guile airport was a bit of a shocker. It was just about breaking day, then I saw it ... it was snowing! For the first time, I had actually seen snow falling. What was supposed to be an hour’s journey to Orly airport to catch an Easy Jet to Barcelona but it dragged to four! We had to stop as the road to the airport was closed. Had the chance to step and actually felt the snow fall. The rest of the passengers were scuttling really fast to the hotel for a loo run, I just took a nice stroll enjoying it (but the way back was a bit of a sprint!), I was going to miss my flight already. Arrived and the plane was delayed due to the snow as well, phew thought I had to spend the night at the airport as there was only one flight a day. We had to sit in the plane for yet another 45 mins as there was too much snow on the wings for the plane to fly. Had this two people with a power hose on the elevator things hosing out the plane, it was like being in a car wash. Eventually arrived Barcelona after what seemed like an eternal journey, first thing I checked was if it was snowing here as well, nope, phew. But I think I’d be wishing for summer to come quick it's still a bit too chilly for a Singapore girl who had just left from a 28 - 33 degree climate.

Just before I left, Singapore Food Industries have jumped onto the band wagon to supply all my food for the races. If it all goes well (if we can get the supply to me in France) I’ll be having what the Singapore Army is having for meals. Perfect for what we'd be doing, just heat the bag up and voila, it's a meal and it's local flavours as well. Wonder if they do sambal chili in little sachets?

10 February 2005 10:00 (GMT +8) 
GONG XI FA CAI! Am rather glad that I can celebrate it traditionally with family and friends this year, have missed it for the last few years. All the New Year goodies, reunion dinners, but what I had really missed was the gatherings where we gather and just chat and have a good time.

A week and a bit more to go before I head to Barcelona to meet Feng, just tidying up all the loose ends, chasing up more sponsors and packing up. Feels just like going back to school again, excited but you know that there is a lot coming at you once it starts. Everyday not I have sleepless night coz the brains running at 100mph with all the things I have to worry about - money, entry paperwork (tons of it!), logistics and equipment (have it got everything as it's cheaper here) and the list is endless...

31 January 2005 15:00 (GMT +8) 
It’s time for Feng to say goodbye to all her local friends and head back to Europe for training and races. It’s been a great few regattas and we have learnt a lot about each other. I know now what needs to be strengthened or changed but this is just the beginning of the changes I think!

We were up hauled at Keico Yacht Services again to be de-rigged and prepped for shipping. Many thanks to Saskia and Bee for giving me a hand or I’d be really pushed for time in getting it all strapped before the flat rack arrived.

One final tour of Singapore through Chinatown (with all the Chinese New Year decorations, was afraid at some point some might accidentally get caught and be pulled down) before she gets loaded onboard one of APL’s liners and start her journey back to Barcelona.

25 January 2005 10:00 (GMT +8) 
Yet another windy Straits Regatta. It has been two years running now! The wind Gods are back in Asia … great and I’m going. Four days of great winds and great competition amongst the fleet, thrown into the mix is the fluky currents as you go thru the channel, helps if you get it right.

Feng had four of us on board – Gunnar, Bee, Saskia and our occasional guest Lisa. First time I had that many people on board the boat and I must say that I think we max out a 4 without bumping about each other too much.

Heading across to Nongsa. Batam was a broad reach so had the big kite up and I think I was a bit too ambitious there where I thought more people on the rail we can hold her better, but we should have stuck the smaller one up, probably would have done better. Well, now we know :O). APL had another sponsored boat that was in the same class sailed by the sailors of Sailability Singapore, they beat us all on a Sonar. Well done, well sailed! 

Windward leewards for the next few days was one of the most exciting for me (bear with me I am new to being at the helm on starts), was in the thick of the action at some points and I thought to myself, better get used to this there would be way more at the Mini races, here we had only 14! Good thing I had Gunnar there.

The SSR was the last race that Feng would compete in Asia. Been a good three months here getting to know the boat and getting used to her. Also being able to bring the Mini to let fellow young sailors see what the next step could be. Was glad that I had the opportunity to take some of the young optimist sailors out for a spin. Think they loved it! It’s really just a very big dinghy and they were surprised that I let them have a go at helming. The mainsheet was a bit though, I struggle sometime with it as well.

She is now in Keico Yacht Services over at Ponggol getting de-rigged and ready for shipping. It’s going to be a looong week…

17 January 2005 22:00 (GMT +8) 
Accenture. High performance delivered.

Yippee! Accenture has come in to be a sponsor of Feng so for the SSR so we’d be called Accenture Feng for the regatta.

Accenture is a global management consulting, technology services and outsourcing company. Committed to delivering innovation, Accenture collaborates with its clients to help them become high-performance businesses and governments. With deep industry and business process expertise, broad global resources and a proven track record, Accenture can mobilize the right people, skills and technologies to help clients improve their performance. With more than 100,000 people in 48 countries, the company generated net revenues of US$13.67 billion for the fiscal year ended Aug. 31, 2004. Its home page is www.accenture.com

We’d be racing under IRC B with the likes of Roo (JS 9000), Scallywag (Sydney 32), The Dogs (Reflex 28), Teko (Platu 24), Solarmax (X-99) and I’ve got an IRC handicap of 1.023… hmmm. We’d see what happens then! Got my rig tuned and we’d have to just go and see what happens. Prediction is that it’ll be windy. This time I’m trying with four crew to see if we can race round the cans with the Mini.

8 January 2005 15:00 (GMT +8) 
Got a couple of weeks to get the boat ready to head back to the Med for serious training. Am trying to get as much things as I can fabricated here as it costs double in Europe… in a week is also the Singapore Straits Regatta which would be Feng’s last regatta before she heads back to Europe. Rope bags, canvas partitions (to keep things on the high side from falling out), GPS mounting, solar panels, etc. Plans had changed and after meeting Alessandro (Italian Mini sailor), I was advised that it’ll be better for me to be heading back to the Med as soon as I can to train with the other Minis.

Other main reason is that the entries are filled up for the Mini Transat already and I am now hoping for a DCQ (6 places kept aside for participants for non-EU countries). Have sent my entry with full details on what is required and now is left to get myself back there to clock in my miles.

Went up on the neighbour (35m motor yacht!?!) to take a shot of the little one … gosh, she really looks tiny from up here. But I think she is just right, I’m comfortable …

Read more news from year 2006 and 2004.