12 December 2005 - Week 3
As Paul and Tori enter their third week of the race, low pressure weather turned north easterly winds to south westerly. These force 7-8 winds effectively stopped them in their tracks leaving all the rowers with no other choice than to anchor up for the best part of a day. In this situation, winds and currents drove the pair more than two miles off course yesterday (Dec 11) No ground has been made taday (Dec 12) but according to forecasts, this low pressure should abate later on this evening. Although progress has been slow these past few days, spirits remain high and the pair have dealt well with initial seasickness as well as some equipment problems.
The race website shows Paul and Tori have rowed on average just over 29 miles each day but in reality there mileage has been much more. The distances shown on the 'Progress' page are from Antigua ' as the crow flies'. Because they must row southerly as much as possible for the first two to three weeks the website distances will not be as far as we would all like. In simple terms, the more west they are the nearer they are to their target. However,considering the obstacles so far, their mileage covered up to now has been no mean feat. Try rowing 29 plus miles, or even half that, on a rowing machine each day and see how you feel after it.
With almost 400 miles covered, Paul and Tori have at least 2,531 miles left. This of course does not take into account the fact that they may, in the days and nights ahead, be driven backwards, sideways, whichever ways. Previous years have shown, however, that the latter section of the course is more favourable. So the only way is up, or rather, forward.
Don't forget top text the word 'row' to 57252 to donate two euro to Concern. This will enable you to receive your own weekly update from Paul and Tori.
