Dee Caffari celebrated the first birthday of her Open 60 racing yacht as she prepares to face yet more testing conditions. Despite the constant challenge of the elements Caffari is enjoying the close racing and tackling the southern ocean alongside the other Vendée Globe skippers.
Dee Caffari celebrated the first birthday of her Open 60 racing yacht as she prepares to face yet more testing conditions. Despite the constant challenge of the elements Caffari is enjoying the close racing and tackling the southern ocean alongside the other Vendée Globe skippers. Following damage reports from the two Swiss entrants, Caffari knows she will have to use all her skill to ensure both she and Aviva remain in good condition.
Dee Caffari's latest diary entry received on Saturday 13 December at 4.35pm GMT:
"Happy Birthday to You, Aviva.
"She is one year old today. Built in Hakes Marine, Wellington, New Zealand, she was ready to come out of the shed this time last year.
"She first got her bottom wet a day ahead of the schedule which was pretty impressive for a boat build. I remember receiving a photograph as I sat on the old Aviva in the Atlantic taking part in the Ecover B2B race.
"Aviva was happy on her birthday, the first real day with easy sailing that was pleasant and enjoyable without holding your breath or holding on, tense wondering what will happen next. This was a good sign and also a chance for me to get some rest as the forecast coming up in the next 24 hours and then again after that looks horrific. I am not afraid to tell you that I am a little scared by the forecast and the conditions we will endure.
"It is really sad news for the Swiss contingent, who have boat issues. I hope they are resolved easily. With two of the fleet heading to the Kerguelen Islands and the fishing activity in the area, I never knew it could be so busy down here. A couple of years ago on the Aviva Challenge I really was alone down here. There was not a soul down here. So it is reassuring to be surrounded by others. In fact Cali from Akena sent me an email, so I must remember enough French to respond. I need to have a word about him chasing us girls all over the oceans!"
Dee and Aviva
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Aviva Ocean Racing summary
Record-breaking British yachtswoman Dee Caffari, who sailed into the record books in May 2006 by becoming the first woman to sail solo, non-stop around the world against the prevailing winds and currents, is attempt her next "world first" by competing in the Vendée Globe yacht race. Caffari is attempting to become the first woman to sail solo and non-stop both ways around the world.
Further information on Dee Caffari and her Aviva Ocean Racing campaign can be found at www.avivaoceanracing.com.
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For further information and interview requests contact:
Caroline Ayling
Mobile: +44 (0) 7801 351950
E-mail: caroline.ayling@synergy-sponsorship.com
Kelly Russell
Mobile: +44 (0)7786 516570
E-mail: Kelly.russell@synergy-sponsorship.com
Website: www.avivaoceanracing.com
Images: www.avivaoceanracing.com/images
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