News

On day ten of the Indian Ocean Rowing Race 2009, it’s the Fours class boats that dominate the front of the fleet, as expected.  Poll position currently goes to British male fours team, Bexhill Trust Challenger who have a 20 mile lead over the British female Ocean Angels crew, rowing in Pura Vida.

Aiming to be the first females ever to row the Indian Ocean, Ocean Angels have a good insight into what lays ahead of them with three of the four crew members having already rowed the Atlantic Ocean.  Sarah, Fiona and Elin all competed in the Atlantic Rowing Race 2007 but the Atlantic was not enough for them and the challenge of the Indian was too great to turn down.

For the Ocean Angels, the second week of the race has seen lots of sun shine and a great opportunity for topping up the sun tans.  A crew rotation change makes for new conversations and a change of cabin allocation with Elin now moving in to the master bedroom for week two.

Daily renditions of “if your happy and you know it” keep the Ocean Angels positive and working well as a team and it’s clear to see that these tactics are working well so far.

The rest of the fleet sees the only remaining Solo entry of Old Mutual Endurance taking fourth place and Southern Cross, the first of the Pairs entries taking fifth. 

Solo rower, Simon Prior of Old Mutual Endurance is finding the big seas to be both an advantage and a disadvantage.  Whilst they have helped to push him along towards Mauritius, they have also caused some minor damage to his side rails and steering system.  However, even the simplest repair jobs are ten times more difficult at sea, especially when you all alone.

Bringing up the rear of the fleet is the Pairs team, Flying Ferkins.  Despite a good day on the oars yesterday, the weather and swell continue to hamper Andrew and Guy’s performance.  However, they are keeping upbeat and better weather, forecast for later this week will be a welcome relief.  Meanwhile, plenty of shark spotting is keeping the guys entertained and these slightly scary friends are not worrying them just yet.

To follow the progress of all the teams competing in the Indian Ocean Rowing Race 2009, please check the Progress Page regularly.