TRAINING
Becoming an ocean-racer and overcoming the most challenging conditions on the planet requires training. Every crew member, regardless of their previous experience, will complete four levels of pioneering Clipper Race training.
Each one-week course is a relentless challenge in itself. Throughout the programme you will constantly progress and strive to ensure that you're trained to the very highest level.
Thats what Clipper say but what is the reality. Follow me to find out!
Lets start with a view of my bedroom.
TRAINING COURSES
Level 1 X 2
Crewing Skills
Over 6.5 days this course enables applicants to be come a safe and competent sailor.
On each evening the yacht returns to port for access to shower and toilet facilities. Also a little libation nearby.
This was a tough week for those,like me with little sailing experience. The instruction was intense and practice continuous.
As part of the selection process there was a requirement to successfully complete Level 1 before you’re guaranteed a place on the Clipper Race.
I did not pass this Level and I will explain what happened on the next page.
Level 2
Offshore Sailing and Life Onboard
Level 2 started with an assessment of skills and knots learnt during Level 1.
During the week a new layer of knowledge and skills are added.
I was so glad that I had repeated Level 1 as the experience provided a great foundation to continue to develop my confidence and competence.
We were introduced to the watch system 6 hours on/off during the day and 4 hours on/off at night. If anyone tells you this is easy they are fibbing.
However it is a case of mind over matter my choice of challenge, my choice of response.
Level 3
Asymmetrical Spinnaker Training And Racing Techniques
I start this course on 25/11/19 for 6 days at sea.
I will be taught to fly and trim the spinnaker, hone my racing skills and understand how to make the boat go faster.
Other skills such as racing starts and understanding the weather systems will be combined with practical exercises and assessments.
Level 4
Team Tactics and OffshoreFleet Racing
I start this course on 3/12/19 with 2 days break between Level 3 and 4.
We will be at sea for 6.5 days.
We will practice racing against other boats, more assessments and exercises to ensure those skills are as perfect as possible.
I finish this course on 9/12/19 and fly to Perth in Australia on 12/12/19.
Nothing like a sprint finish to aim for!
Level 1
Self Determination
The photo gives an indication of the struggle I was having on the Level 1 course. I under estimated the demands on my
physical and mental well-being.
I was just fit enough to exist on the yacht but not thrive.
On an occasion I was using my harness to move about the boat. The harness is attached to the jackstays, webbing which runs the length of the boat. The webbing is a safety measure to ensure that no one falls over board.
By the time I had completed my task at the other end of the yacht I was worn out.
Point 1 - LIFE ONBOARD IS VERY TIRING
The instruction and practical implementation is mentally and phsically exhausting.
There is a new language to learn, different regimes for
setting up/hoisting/lowering sails, how to cook, how to clean, how to use the toilet, how to get in and out of bed. Lots of how's and why's.
At the end of the course the question was posed,
'Do you know what you are doing all the time?'
My answer was, 'No'.
As a result I did not achieve the reqired standard to pass Level 1 training.
I was offered the opportunity to repeat the training course, which of course I accepted.
The Clipper Team are very keen to help people achieve their full potential and other crew members were offered the same opportunity.
Point 2 - HOW TO MANAGE PERSONAL DISAPPOINTMENT
Repeat the process with a new bunch of people.
“Failure is simply the opportunity to begin again, this time more intelligently.” —Henry Ford
MAN OVERBOARD DRILLS
One of the most important drills is Man Over Board (MOB).
We are practising at the side of the dock before trying it all out at sea.
I am the rescuer and Cat the casulty.
I can tell you that it is far easier in dock than at sea.
What I would have missed
If I had not conquered the dent to my personal pride
I would not have repeated Level 1.
I would not have seen this sunrise.
I would not have met a wonderful group of people.
I would not have passed the course with flying colours.
I would not have gained the confidence and competence to move onto my Level 3 course