Dubarries and Sponsors! It's a busy time!

T-39 days! What a hectic couple of weeks it’s been! I’ve spent more time in school than when I actually attended! Everything’s set for the 1^st taster session to run on Friday with the year 7s but still waiting to fill up the places on 2^nd session. The support from staff has been incredible and I can’t wait to get on the water!

I had to do one of the scariest things I have ever done last week. I stood on the stage of the main hall at Blacon High School and spoke to the whole of Key Stage 3. That’s 300 people aged 11-14 and all the staff to go with them - including the Head Teacher! Somehow I managed to stay up-right for all my presentation and some of the feedback I’ve had has been really super. Students and staff alike seem to be behind me and they are all showing their support.

Support and sponsorship comes from all directions, from friends and family to people we hardly know, all are unique and have different messages of support but all are wishing me the time of my life! It is quite a humbling experience to be on the receiving end of such kindness and I would like to thank everybody for their help, I really couldn’t do this without them.

I’ve been on a bit of a spree this week and have finally bought (with help from sponsors!) the last big bits of kit needed; waterproof camera to capture all those magical moments, warm mid-layer salopettes for when it snows in China, and, the most exciting bit of kit, my new Dubarry Boots to wear around Cowes with my mini-skirt! Oh, and to keep my feet warm and dry round the world, of course. So with only the bits and bobs left to sort out I finally feel like we’re making progress.

This feeling is made better by the fact that Jamaica has climbed from last place back into fourth place, a position that shows good tactics, perseverance and most of all team work pays off! Well done to the guys and keep up the good work! The on-going battle with Cape Breton is keeping the team on their toes but the challenging tactics are what we need to keep focussed, though at the moment the temperatures they are experiencing are more than distracting!

Don’t forget that you can follow the race at www.clipperroundtheworld.com and www.clipperroundtheworld.com/jamaica

Please, please, please feel free to leave comments to show your support for the whole team, and as always, keep reading! x x x