Leg 2 Day 1 : 35°47'00.0"S 56°47'00.0"W

It was always going to be difficult to top the race start day from Portsmouth. Buenos Aires, however, gave it a very good shot! The blessing of the yachts and crews was particularly moving - every member of the fleet all too aware of what lies ahead - and there was certainly a tangible sense of affection in the air. The competition might be passionately pursued, but at the bottom of the world nobody wants anyone else to get hurt. Hug followed hug as people zipped back and forth along the narrow pontoon saying 'aufwiedersehen' to friends on other yachts. But all too soon it was time to cast off and store the mooring lines for five or six long, tough weeks. After many tears, a good dousing with Holy Water and a roaring cheer from all those watching from the shore, we were greeted outside the marina by a surprisingly large armada of supporter boats and curious boat-owners who had been drawn out to see the Global Challenge fleet heading off for 'Cabo de Hornos'. Their exhilaration was infectious and got each and every one of us in the mood again. So thanks to the city for a fantastic farewell to round off a wonderful stopover; during which we had a partying 'sandwich' - work, followed by parties, followed by work - and the shore team had a work overload! Thank you to them especially for grafting non-stop to make sure we all got underway again in fine fettle! The skyscrapers left behind, the ten-minute gun resounded, taking with it any remaining final cobwebs that might have hung about us as we got back into the groove. Hearts once again began to pound and the yachts jostled in the muddy waters of the Plate beneath a brilliant clear sky. It was a close-run thing, not everyone managing to stay behind the line at the gun. We manoeuvred ourselves into a very good position, however, and then took the losing tack to escape the 'bad air' from other yachts. As we went into the watch system at 6p.m. we took the lead. It felt good to be back! The night saw a wonderful display overhead after our somewhat narrowed skies amidst the city buildings of Buenos Aires, and helming by the Southern Cross was a real treat, albeit one which required every ounce of concentration as we found ourselves rapidly locked back into battle with BG SPIRIT and Spirit of Sark. As day begins the story is much the same. The wind has died and we are struggling to eek out every .1 of a knot of speed. However, there they still are, within spitting distance! Here we go again. PS: A note to all our supporters who were due out to see us off on the boat - we are sorry that you did not make it and have not yet heard what the problem was with your boat. Such a shame. Thanks to all of you for turning out and supporting us though - we will see those friends and family amongst you again soon! Huge hugs to Kate and Jasper, June, Anne, Claire and Ruth, Olli's Mum and Dad and everyone else. Xxxxx Naomi Cudmore