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BT GLOBAL CHALLENGE - HIGH LEVELS OF CONCENTRATION CONSTANTLY REQUIRED Southampton (UK), Thursday May 29th 1997 With constant winds of 20 knots, the fleet of the BT Global Challenge continues to be averaging 10 knots en route to Boston. Today's predicted yacht arrival times, at their current speeds, predict that both Group 4 and Save the Children will still be arriving on June 7th. The wind has slightly shifted for the majority of the yachts and is currently blowing about 90 degrees off their bows, allowing spinnakers to be hoisted again after two days of using headsails. As Courtaulds International explains, "our speed has now increased, but it also means that constant trimming of the sails and steering corrections, combined with high levels of concentration are required." Courtaulds International, along with the rest of the fleet, realise that the next few days sailing are strategically important. She is currently studying the Bermudan high pressure zone to see whether it is better to pass to the east or west of Bermuda, and whether it will be more advantageous to take a longer route with the better winds to the west of Bermuda or visa versa. All eyes are on the weather faxes, ensuring that the right decision is made. Positions have remained the same amongst the fleet over the last 24 hours. Group 4 still leads the fleet, lying 69 miles ahead of Save the Children at 07:50 hrs GMT today. Global Teamwork is battling for 3rd place with Concert, sailing only eight miles behind. Both yachts were sailing within sight of each other over night and crossing paths in hope of finding that extra bit of wind. Another private race is also going on between Commercial Union and Toshiba Wave Warrior which is keeping both crews focused. Commercial Union remains to be the most easterly yacht, although she is permanently conscious of this course. Due to the high pressure to the north of her, she has decided to steer a lower course for a while to avoid its possible reduction of wind strength. All yachts were pleased to report that the weather conditions are cooler than expected, reaching no more than 28°C on deck, although it remains sticky below despite water breaking over the bow regularly. Nuclear Electric reported that, "the braver cabin mates are prepared to risk splashes of water through an open hatch in exchange for fresh air to sweep away the fetid odour of sweaty t- shirts and unwashed bodies." To break the monotony a bit on board Motorola, the crew have been running a silly sideburns competition. The judging is to be made upon arrival in Boston "by budding style gurus", and the competition has "whipped the crew up into a shaving frenzy." Schools and other youth organisations can experience the excitement of the race via the BT Global Challenge Club, which they can join through the BT Global Challenge web site at http://www.btchallenge.com For updated information on the BT Global Challenge : Internet site : http//www.btchallenge.com Fax database : 0990 321123 (+44 990 321123 from outside UK) Recorded telephone information line : 0891 505550 (UK only) Public enquiry bureau : 01703 212124 (+44 1703 212124 from outside UK) Ceefax page 388 (UK only) |
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