Global Challenge - Time for Reflection

Many of my final installments focused on the vagaries of the wind. I berated my sailing colleagues for their inability to cope with subtle fluctuations but I have to confess that what confronted us in the last few hours in the Solent would have tried the patience of Gabriel himself, never mind the more run of the mill saint.

At one point, we caught and passed boats that had been miles ahead of us, only then to become embroiled in a creeping marathon involving five yachts, separated by no more than 100m, with two others set to join us at any time.

My concerns were not so much for our own circumstances but for those waiting at the quayside, many of whom stood for hours in full sun, accompanied by toddlers and babies! A far greater challenge than anything dreamt up by Sir Chay.

We eventually crossed the line at a rate of knots.The task was complete. Friends, family, colleagues and even strangers on the shore made us all feel as though we really had achieved something remarkable.

As ever, I was some way behind with this notion and the enormity of what the crew has achieved has still to dawn upon me. Some aspects of our trip, however, have registered.

From a weather viewpoint, the trip was always going to be challenging, given the variety of conditions we were likely to encounter and the quality of data available. The limitations of some numerical Global models were fully exposed, particularly, but not exclusively, in the Southern Ocean.

Whilst UK Met Office products are by no means perfect, it was with some relief that I retuned my HF Fax to receive Atlantic analyses from Exeter as we passed to the south of Newfoundland.

At least the Fleet Weather Centre at Northwood transmit charts in accordance with their published schedules. Always a bit of a winner with the customer, I find.

I have already realised my good fortune with regard to my team. Our team was recognised throughout the fleet as being one of the most cohesive. I feared that I had used up all my good luck in team selection through training. This, thankfully, was far from the case. Their patience, tolerance and humour will live long in my memory.

The trip took me to some wonderful places. Buenos Aires proved a marvellous gateway to a somewhat hidden gem of a country. If you are looking for a holiday location with a difference, this country of immense variety would fit the bill.

New Zealand reminded me very much of Scotland, with great scenery and a wonderfully polite people. Sydney is truly magnificent and La Rochelle was a superbly relaxing final port of call.

Perhaps the greatest revelation thus far is one of perspective. I wrote of it on the trip and it has developed further as the days have passed. I still struggle with the notion that I, Philip Avery, have circumnavigated the globe, and even managed to do it against the prevailing winds and currents.

What has become clear though is what is important in my life.I missed my home in Scotland and I certainly missed a fantastic group of friends I have acquired over the past thirty years. Many material possessions have been ‘recycled’ since my return as I missed none of them.

I’ll be keeping my flushing toilet though, and a comfortable sofa. Both sheer luxuries, I assure you.

Would I do it again? Of course not! Been there and done that.

Would I recommend it or something like it? Most certainly! If you’ve followed my journey all the way, thank you. Remember, it doesn’t always have to be someone else. As they say in all the best lotteries, "it could be you".