Peligroso Racing Team: Peligroso RT: Closure

After twenty four hours living in land, having cleaned the boat, and everyone (except Yon) fully recuperated from the party's hangover, the crew is only beginning to digest the magnitude of their accomplishment.

It was a week unlike any other. It all began with the Californian cold and harsh winds. Sailing upwind was a challenge that lasted two difficult days. Then, the wind shifted for the better, and the colorful spinnakers came out to glamorize Peligroso for the rest of the race. The team's focus and commitment was key to their daily performance and it was tested strongly by the vastness of the Pacific, mechanic difficulties, changing weather conditions, and hygienic incidents that were fortunately resolved. The end of the race was not uneventful, the Molokai Channel welcomed Peligroso with winds speeding over 30 knots. These extreme forces tore the sailboat's main sail and blew up the spinnaker just minutes before reaching the finish line! Notwithstanding, our sailors crossed the Pacific Ocean in an impressive time, stopping the clock at just minutes before 8 full days.

The welcoming party was very emotional, and maybe even excessive (but well earned, according to Dominick/Loren). Hawaii's tropical weather, the hugs and kisses from us waiting at the docks, and the Mai Tai's were exactly what the crew longed for. It was a truly unforgettable day.

The Peligrosos finished second place in Division 1 and it was the first time a Mexican boat ever competed in this division. This was an accomplishment beyond what our imaginations can describe. Lets never forget what these 14 brave sailors have demonstrated. If they were capable of this, what could ever stop them from doing more? Also, lets not let them forget how proud we are of them and how we will always be there to support them the way we did this week: sending email descriptions, waking up early to read updates, and suffering, laughing, and crying thinking about them as they defied mother nature with their courage, skill and strategy. Lets also recognize the 15th and most important crew member. Aside from her obvious beauty, she made sure our sailors were protected and warm throughout the journey. Lets all take a moment to recognize the greatness of the vessel: Peligroso.

With everyone now in land, we can only wait to hear their stories, and wonder when their next adventure will be and what it will look like. I close this series of emails with a few images that speak a lot better than words ever could. Thanks for following these emails and thanks for your congratulating notes to me and especially to the crew. We are having a wonderful time here in Hawaii! ALOHA!

If you weren't able to follow all the emails, or if you wish to read them all again, or if you want to stay informed about Peligroso's future adventures, you can always do so at the Peligroso RT official blog and their official Facebook site.

July 16, 2011

WE FINALLY SEE THEM....