Ready to set sail in Cape2Rio event

FOR 36 crews waiting with bated breath to set off from Cape Town in the Cape2Rio Yacht Race on January 4, yesterday was a chance to meet the competition for the first time.

The Royal Cape Yacht Club was alive with activity and excitement at the pre- race event, but most of the crews were quietly checking out their most serious threats in the 3 600-nautical mile voyage.

It will be the seventh race for 72- year- old John Levin, whose first was in 1971. He said although his boat was the smallest in the fleet of 36, he was optimistic about his chances of doing well.

While Levin brings experience to the race, others bring youth and excitement.

Bradley Robinson, 22, from the Amtec Wits team, is participating as one of the current and alumni members of the Wits University Yacht Club.

He previously entered in 2011 as part of a family team. He says his team’s chances are good, although they’re competing against the best. But one of their major challenges would be spending an estimated 21 days on a small boat with their six-person team, he said. The worst part of the race was over – being prepared and getting into the actual race. From here on, they just needed to sail well.

Couples team Ian and Elske Henderson said the race had provided not only a chance for them to travel together, but also to show their two young daughters, Lola, 4, and Zazzie, 7, other cultures.

They will participate aboard Isla, which Ian built.

Previous participants agree that the race is a life-changing experience.

lisa.isaacs@inl.co.za