It’s been another busy night but I did at least manage to get some rest, albeit in small intervals.

Well as you can see I'm still heading west and it just feels wrong! But I'm working really hard to avoid that high pressure system, trying to make sure I don't get too close to it, as it’s still possible it could head my way in the hours to come. Like Bernard said yesterday, I haven't really had any option but to take the course I have. I also really worried about getting trapped in light, upwind conditions – that would have been too much to bear. Though the wind’s a bit quiet at the moment, hopefully there will be stronger winds ahead.

I've been keeping an eye on the guys behind me and was shocked to hear of Robin's situation and the damage to his mainsail. I've tried calling him a couple of times, but I guess he's got a bit on right now! If anyone can get through it, it’s Robin though and I can't wait to have a beer (or two) with him when we get in to Fremantle.

So, the priority for me now is to get myself and the boat in proper order before hitting the Southern Ocean. I know I have been putting it off for more than a week now, but looks like today could be the day to climb the mast. The only problem is my wireless remote vision which enables me to control the boat from the top of the mast isn't working and so it’s only really safe for me to go up when the wind is more stable. I'm also concentrating hard on monitoring the weather, as it is critical that I pass down the western edge of the apex of the high pressure system. For the first time in a while, the boat is beginning to dry out but there's still some water to get rid of. The great thing is the weather is still pretty warm. I'm running around in just a t-shirt and lightweight trousers, something I want to make the most of, as in just a few short days the temperatures will start to drop dramatically. Beef and potato stew for lunch I think!

Alex Thomson

Last Updated ( Wednesday, 15 November 2006 )