Tiki Blue another 205 miles

Sailed another 205 miles in the last 24 hours and now on our last leg of the race. We heard today that another boat lost its rudder and is underway on compromised condition. Last night we had our halfway celebration which was a milestone that we all were grateful for considering how this race started. John and Lucy thanks for the party gifts all are in good use. Kelly we will have our glasses on and be styling when we arrive. We are all very excited to finish this race out in a very competitive fleet with great sailors doing everything possible to maximize boat speed day and night. Last night was probably the toughest night sailing so far. It was very dark, gusts to 31 with 30 degree wind shifts. Not easy believe meeeee... The current speed record is held by the Honorable Judge Murray at 17.4 knots. Larry, Chris and Gary all tied for second place with 15.8 knots. I have to say that the IPAD I received from current RYC Commodore, Sue Hubbard has been a terrific tool keeping us informed of very important sailing stats throughout the night! Thanks Sue.

A couple of days before the race a sailing buddy on C dock (Port Captain) asked if we could do a favor for a friend who recently lost her husband and spread his ashes in the middle of the Pacific. I said we would be honored to. Dorbin Dobrev was a very accomplished sailor, Naval Architect, designer and ship builder. His Captain's license covered all the world oceans and he sailed the Pacific, Atlantic, Mediterranean and other seas. He was planning to sail his sailboat Avanti around the world but his life ended too soon. He id have a very accomplished life but this last dream seem to escape this life. He is sailing the celestial heavens in a much grander ocean. Prayers are with his lovely wife who I met just two days before we left for the race. As she told me a bit about her husband tears welled in her eyes and I let her know we would provide a ceremony with distinction and understanding of the love they shared for their entire adult lives. He is bring us good luck and a keen sense that everyday we have to continue to make our dreams a reality and not get too caught up in the diminutive small stuff that filters and mute the vivid colors of life.

Cheers Capt'n Gary

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