The seas in this region of the world are notoriously large, and the winds are very fast (30mph+). Your typical cruising sailboat would not be able to sail this ocean without the risk of structural failure. One must sail in a well designed boat, and sailors must be equipped with not only survival suits, but a lot of training too!
Have a look at the picture below to examine the race route.
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Many things influenced me to take on this adventurous challenge. After my global deployment with the US Marines back in 1987 I have been in what I refer to as "adventure withdrawal" ever since. Imagine sailing the world and returning to a Midwestern city. Each visit to the ocean on vacation teases me as I gaze out over it and ponder returning to sea some day. Yet, I have a desire to sail the Southern Ocean? Why? I will get right to the main reasons:
1. I have never been there and I want to experience it's raw power first hand. I have sailed in rough seas before, but nothing like the Southern Ocean.
2. I strongly relish the challenge of enduring over 3 weeks of rough seas and high winds. It will be one wild ride :-o)
3. It will rapidly prepare me to become an expert sailor. My long term plans are to obtain all my American Sailing Association (ASA) certifications so that I can skipper my own yachts while on vacation. You see where I'm going with this? Vacations with family & friends are soon to be a lot more exciting.
Below is a preview of "Leg 3" of the Clipper race, also referred to as the "roller coaster ride" to Australia.
My training starts this week in Portsmouth, UK and I will update this blog if I can find a computer there or WiFi access for my iPhone. If not, I'll upload the content when I get back.
Fair winds,
Joseph
