The Walvis Bay wind seems to have gone somewhere else for Xmas. It is of course pretty frustrating from our perspective as we feel so close to finishing this grand project. The final few knots necessary for the outright record feel almost like a mere formal technicality. I know, I know... you don't need to tell me how far this may well be from the truth... but after all we have been through over the years... that's how it feels here and now. I'm just so eager to get out there and nail this once and for all. The time is ticking away and everything is running out on us. It would be perfect to get one or two windy days in the next four. We have to accept that it mightn't go our way.

Today is teasing us a little as the wind has swung into the west and it does have an inkling of oomph... but that is all. It could go either way.

Of course we have seen Hydroptere's antics and watch on with fascination trying to get any info we can on exactly what happened. 61 knots is an incredible speed no doubt about it...

I sincerely hope there isn't too much damage and that they can get back in action. Ultimately we are all fans of the sport and despite my competitive aspirations, I love watching all of these great sailors out on the water absolutely pushing their craft to the limits. The whole Hydroptere project is a brilliant effort and we much prefer them on the water than off it.

I very much look forward to hearing/seeing the details of the context surrounding the top speed so as to understand its relevance. Anyone of us can go into a corner faster than Lewis Hamilton... whether or not you come out the other side is the important bit. Naturally this applies to some of our own recent runs.

BUT WAIT... now the wind is filling in and the tide is dropping. We will try and get VESTAS SAILROCKET across the Lagoon and sail in a low tide environment. We have to use every opportunity. So I will leave it here and go and do the final details of preperation. If given half a chance we will take it.

Stay tuned,

Paul and the team.