As the end of another Cowes week drew to a close the hustle and bustle of the marinas was kept alive with the preparations of many yachts for the biggest race of the week - the Fastnet.
As many boats departed for home those who had taken part in racing during the week and were based in Cowes were busy working away at preparing their boats for the race. The atmosphere around the marinas was interesting with those who were perhaps first timers thinking that this was just another jolly out to sea whilst others who had taken part in the race before were more apprehensive and nervous knowing what could and may be thrown at them in one of the more unpredictable races.
This year's race was oversubscribed and was particularly poignant as it is the 30th anniversary of the devestating effects that the weather had on the 1979 race. This in turn led to the 24 hour delay of the 2007 Fastnet race which was the first delay race officers had put in place in the race's history. No weather warnings were in place this morning however, as the sun shone done on the onlookers whilst the breeze kept everyone chilled as they watched with eagerness from the Royal Yacht Squadron.
The first fleet to set off were the Open 60's who left at midday and were passing Hurst Castle about an hour and a half later. Hot Stuff and the IRC1 class were started at 1300hrs and they got away to a good start. It was a Spinnnaker start and a beautiful sight to behold as the brightly coloured sails were hoisted in the air amid the smoke of the RYS canon. Hot Stuff wearing her heart on her sleeve - oops I mean spinnaker was clearly visible in the mix as she crossed the line. As most of the crew were wearing their bright red gilets they were easily seen as they sailed away down towards the Needles.
The next sighting was at Hurst Castle by Abi Hillier - our Grasshopper sponsor and her husband Ed - an old hand at the Fastnet himself and Hookie's Mum and her partner who reported the crew giving them a huge wave as they sailed through at a good speed.
Next stop Plymouth and as of this mornings predictions they should arrive at 0217hrs on Friday morning - which will please Hookie as they'll be in time for the party!!!
Good luck to the crew and safe sailing
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