NOT ALL FUN AND FESTIVITIES

It’s not all fun and festivities in Tauranga despite the numerous social engagements and parties planned. There is work to be done on the boats. Some of it dirty work. Bobst Group Armor lux, Tommy Hilfiger Freedom America and Ocean Planet are all on the hard having work done. In the case of Bobst Group Armor lux the large area of delamination that occurred the night before Bernard Stamm arrived has been patched. All that remains is the foul job of fairing the hull and then the important job of repainting the sponsors name on the topsides. Bernard Stamm joined his shore team under the boat with sanding board in hand and dust in his eyes.

Tommy Hilfiger Freedom America has a smaller area being repaired. In an unfortunate incident the boat connected with the sharp edge of the dock just as Brad van Liew arrived in Tauranga. Up until that point the boat had not suffered a scratch since Cape Town. Bruce Schwab on Ocean Planet is taking the opportunity to do some modifications to his boat. A reasonable exchange rate and an abundance of highly skilled workers was too much to pass up, so Schwab is finally making some modifications which he believes will improve the boats performance on the next leg. "Ocean Planet is a work in progress," he said. "All I need is money and I can continue to develop the boat to realize it’s fullest potential."

Alan Paris is making good progress across the Tasman Sea. The latest poll shows BTC Velocity sailing at 11 knots in fair conditions. Keep on keeping on Alan. We are planning a big reception for your arrival. And thanks to all the skippers who sang happy birthday to me on stage last night. It was most appreciated. It’s was my privilege to be spending the day with you all.

Brian Hancock great.circle@verizon.net

Source: Around Alone Official Site