Unfortunately Tony has retired from the challenge after his steering was damaged 
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Hi,
Well, those of you who watched would have seen a strange course!
I departed Plymouth on Sunday 3rd and was making good progress.
The wind was blowing 6-7 and from the south west. I was on a course directly south from the Eddystone Light, heading for the French coast, hoping to clear Brest in two long tacks. A wind shift north was forecast, easing the passage.
I took a fairly large wave over the quarter which filled the cockpit. Contessina handled this well, but we were low in the water whilst the cockpit drained. We were hit by a second large wave which shattered the steering vane on the Hasler gear.
Since this is my primary method of steering whilst underway, I had little option but to retire.
The boat is currently in Dartmouth whilst the weather improves.
I will make more plans, but the immediate concern is to repair the vane and enjoy some sailing after eight months of work on the boat!
Tony
