19 December 2005 - bad weather delays
Paul and Tori's progress has been seriously hampered during the past week. It is unfortunate, to say the least, that they have been dogged by such bad weather on this voyage. Low-pressure systems are uncommon on the race route at this time of year but the rowers have now experienced two in the space of a week. Must be something to do with changing weather patterns! In overall terms, this has meant that over one third of the race days so far have been spent on sea anchor going nowhere or even slipping backwards. It is a most frustrating time for our two race challengers but fingers crossed they will begin to make progress from Tuesday evening when this one is due to pass.
Passing the time at anchor is spent playing 'Hangman', 'Connect 4' and dreaming about 'real' food! They can dissect a Twix bar with great skill and then try to eat as slowly as possible. Tori seems to be much better at this than Paul (fancy that). Attempts at fishing have so far proven fruitless but maybe that's just as well as the fish out there are somewhat larger than the average angler is used to.
This past week has sadly been marked by the tragic news of the sudden death of Lynda Cantrell. Lynda, along with Niall, was one of Paul and Tori's most enthusiastic supporters and only a few short weeks ago, she took part in the Galtee Mountain hike to raise funds for Concern and awareness of the race. This was devastating news for our two rowers at such a remote remove but they have now dedicated their race to the memory of their great friend Lynda.
Paul and Tori ask for a renewed effort in spreading the TEXT facility far and wide. If each person could only enlist the support of a number of friends and relations this would be a serious multiplier. At this time of year there will be many opportunities for meeting people you have not seen for a while and who may not have heard of the race. Please ask them to text the word ROW to 57252 and Concern will benefit from a €2 contribution.
From the Atlantic Ocean just north of Cape Verde, Paul and Tori send their best wishes to all their supporters for a very happy and peaceful Christmas.
