GOLD COAST STARTS RACE 14 DERRY – DENHELDER

Posted byRichard HewsonPosted inUncategorized

Gold Coast Australia and the fleet of 10 Clipper Yachts have started Race 14 of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race.

It was a fantastic and emotional send off by the people of Derry and Londonderry who lined the banks, fired cannons, blew horns and waved flags as we left the dock.

This race is going to be a tough one for me for a number of reasons. The main challenge Gold Coast will face is that this race is a coastal race in an area that I am not familiar with. Though we have done a lot of research, the lack of local knowledge of the area which is very tidal and has many mountains, bays, coves and islands that will effect the local winds.

The main obstacle of this race is Pentland Firth which is renown for having up to 12 kts of tidal stream. Everything I have read about the firth recommends not going there. Depending on our timing to the area we may opt to sail around it, however this will give following boats a massive advantage. No doubt the yacht in this race that gets through the firth and into the norh sea first will be the winner.

Richard Hewson

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Published by Richard Hewson

Richard Hewson is a Tasmania-based ships captain, marine surveyor, and experienced sailor with a lifelong connection to the sea. With experience in project management and vessel commissioning, he has operated and raced a wide range of vessels—from dinghies and Maxi yachts to tankers, icebreakers and research vessels. Richard has competed in major offshore events including the Sydney to Hobart, Fastnet, Middle Sea, and Transatlantic races including the Mini Transat. In 2012, he skippered the winning yacht in the Clipper Round the World Race. He has sailed to every continent and explored all corners of the world from Antarctica to south pacific atols and recently completed a three-year family voyage from the Netherlands to Tasmania. Richard holds a Master Class 1 (unrestricted), RYA Yachtmaster Ocean, Engineering (1200kw) and commercial diving certifications, and is an AMSA-accredited marine surveyor. He is also affiliated with the Australasian Institutes of Marine Surveyors and is passionate about all things that float.

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