Hi y'all, Andy here for Team Minerva

Day 1 and we're all still alive! Race start at midday was hairy and fun filled with all four boats jockying to cross the line bang on the money to get the smallest of advantage. Don't ask me who crossed first and who's first now (20:40) cos it's pitch black and the boats are already strung out over quite a few miles.

Saddest thing for us is that Tim didn't make it across the start line at CVI. He hasn't been his usual self and yesterday went to the doc's to find he has a bronchial infection, and he and Ondeck decided it wouldn't be safe for him to continue, so he's going home when he can get a flight. Pants, but the right decison and we'll miss him and his warped sense of humour! All the best from us all Tim and get well soon.

For all JPMC folk, Alan Logan is on one of the other boats - trying to get his sea miles under his belt so he can qualify for his Yachtmaster's - really good to see him but a shame he's going to come in (at least) second.

What a blast and what hard work - I'm knackered!

Hi to all F+F of the crew - special H+Ks to Pam, Soph, Adam and Alex - you were right to send me packing for a few weeks - fantastic!

tara
Andy