The Race Director, Chris Usborne, spoke to Savoir Faire skipper, Jason McKinlay, at 17:15 local today.
Jason and Josh are as focussed as always – sharp and aware of the worsening weather developing around them.
They are currently safely and sensibly tucked away at anchor, sheltering from the inbound storm, with thunder and lightning seen ahead. Jason likened it to being in a vortex – seeing strong winds and dark, heavy rain clouds closing in on them. He thought it could go on for over 24 hours, and was clearly a little frustrated that the enterprising crew were unable to make better progress today. They were aiming to row the necessary 15 miles north to be able to make the hugely psychological turn East towards John O’Groats.
Jason reports both men remain in “good nick” as is their boat, the Emilia Oliver. Team Savoir Faire are still hugely content with their progress overall, some 6 days ahead of the simulated pairs record set at 52 days. If offered their current position at race start, both rowers agreed without hesitation that they would have taken it, no question.
They are still very much on course to finish GB Row 2013 in the 30’s (between 30 and 39 days to complete their epic 2000 mile non-stop and unaided rowing adventure).