As I nurse my sore muscles after a hard fought regatta here in the Midwest-our first of the season, and today in very rough and cold conditions (2,2,1,1), I was thinking as we surfed across the finish line about the boys on AMRO Two, who after the loss of crewmate Hans Horrovoets (lost overboard running at close to 30 knots, miraculously recovered, but could not be resuscitated), still had the fortitude to turn around to save the boys from Moviestar, which had to be abandoned due to a leak at the rear keel hinge that could not be controlled. With the body of their mate still on board, these guys performed the flawless rescue of ten other sailors in trouble, and the entire crew from Moviestar plus the remaining crew on AMRO turned to continue sailing towards Portsmouth-what a sad time this must be for all of them....
It is so easy to take for granted the sea and the beauty and thrill of sailing, and we must guard against this. I had my crew in full harness gear all day today, and any time we start thinking conditions MIGHT call for this, that means it is time to do it.
Please keep a good thought, prayer, or whatever it is you do when thinking of others for the crews of both boats-celebrate their skill and compassion, and honor the memory of Hans and those who have gone before him by making certain every time you leave the dock that your crew are safe, your boat is well found, and that you are making the right decisions about the conditions you will sail in.
Sorry to bring things down, but this has weighed on me for the last 2 days and I wanted to share it with you.
Be safe,
S
It is so easy to take for granted the sea and the beauty and thrill of sailing, and we must guard against this. I had my crew in full harness gear all day today, and any time we start thinking conditions MIGHT call for this, that means it is time to do it.
Please keep a good thought, prayer, or whatever it is you do when thinking of others for the crews of both boats-celebrate their skill and compassion, and honor the memory of Hans and those who have gone before him by making certain every time you leave the dock that your crew are safe, your boat is well found, and that you are making the right decisions about the conditions you will sail in.
Sorry to bring things down, but this has weighed on me for the last 2 days and I wanted to share it with you.
Be safe,
S
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