Update from Cliff 3 Dec 09
It’s almost a given, the Woodvale Trans-Atlantic rowing race is not going to start on time. We heard last night from Simon, the race organizer, that they have not been able to get flares. There is a meeting scheduled for 9 am this morning where a vote will be taken. The main problem is that there are no white flares. It is possible to purchase flares in Spain but they only sell orange and red distress flares and not white ones. White flares are used as signal or warning flares and are vital when you are in a small rowing boat and about to be run over by a ship. There is a lot of emotion around the race village and a lot of opinion. Small groups chatting and sharing their thoughts in hushed voices. We know which way we will vote today after discussing it last night - we decided no compromise. [Ed: It was confirmed today. Start will be on Wednesday.]
Below is a picture of the row locks or gates which Pete will use to attach his oars to the boat. They were made specially for him by Fabkomp in East London. Fabkomp also supported Pete and Bill’s 07/08 race. This time around the company made the row locks, Pete’s special seat holders (of lightweight aluminium) and a beautiful dolly or hand trailer which helps us move the boat without need for a car. There has been huge interest and respect shown for these products – the rowers seem to be really impressed by Pete’s set up.
We now have our AIS (Automatic Identification System) fitted and there were a few tense moments when the GPS did not pick up the satellites. We moved the boat from where it was parked and suddenly there were satellites everywhere! Pete’s trusty Garmin is now working like a dream.
We finished the day with an evening out with the solo rowers. Everyone enjoyed the restaurant and the food was stunning. The evening was full of laughter, fun and banter and Pete and Charlie (Pitcher) teasing each other non-stop.
The most interesting conversation I overheard was between Pete and a guy called Mike who is over to help out the Jersey crew. He said to Pete, “You and Charlie are friends but I can see that when you hit the water it’s going to be a race to watch. I can also see that should you ever need to stop racing to ensure the safety and support of each other you would not hesitate. I really admire you two for this.” He said, “ You are true heroes in my mind.” I thought that Mike summed up the friendships forged between these gladiators of the oceans rather well. Fierce competitors who also caring and thoughtful for the needs of others. Real men, I thought.
Mike presented us with a sketch of Liberty Nyamezela set against a South African flag – with the words: “If anyone can, a South African can.”
