Trip's like this make my Job sound like a dream, in reality it’s more akin to Groundhog Day in Butlin’s.
Grand Bahama was desolate and far from the island I expected. Primed for development in the 70’s it just looked like no one ever came. Now, all you see is derelict houses and acres of trees left bare from the hurricanes of recent years.
The people were incredibly friendly but tourism is the only employer and its clear there's not enough jobs to sustain any real community. As a result, crime is common and within days of departing the resort our coach boats were being targeted by engine thief’s keen to pimp their rides.
What stood out was the sea life; Reef Sharks, Parrot Fish and an array of fish that looked like they’d been taken from the set of Finding Nemo. I was surprise to coming face to face with a Lion Fish just off the beach but not as surprised as Dave when I told him it was venomous!
The training itself was excellent and one of the best pre-event camps we’ve had as a team. For non sailors it’s hard to get across just how much knowledge we need to gather on the local conditions to maximize our chances of performing to our potential. Unlike F1, where drivers learn new circuits at home on the play station, we have to get out on the water and tune our equipment and techniques to the conditions and gather as much weather and tide data as possible.
It’s also important that sailors get comfortable in the venue and build a daily routine that they can drop straight into when we get back for the championships in January. Elite Athletes are creatures of habit as it’s the only way they can stay confident and consistent.
For now its job done and back to Blighty.
Event starts 4th Jan!
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