A few weeks ago I was lucky enough to be invited back to crew on Duchess, a Hanse 41 yacht, for the annual Around Bute race. We competed last year in a blustery and very exciting race and won in a record time - our top speed was close to 10.5 knots.
 

This year the sun shone relentlessy and we pootled along at a steady 4 knots in a light breeze. Eventually, about half way round the island and with some of the smaller yachts barely away from the start line the race was finished early. We had won again. Thanks to Iain & Maureen for the invitation aboard and G & T’s and Scotch pies!