Jester Helm Newsletter, April 2023

Dear Jesters,

A new sailing season is almost upon us, and in less than three months we could see the biggest Jester fleet of all time setting sail for the Jester Baltimore Challenge 2023. This is a great tribute to the strength and popularity of the concept, and to the vision of Ewen in driving it forward, and is something we should all feel privileged to be a part of.

As of writing we have 65 yachts on the provisional starters’ list, with 51 intending to start from Plymouth and the other 14 from Pwllheli.

However, we know that there are always withdrawals from the provisional lists, and given the numbers involved this year, it is vital that participants let us know as soon as possible if they are unable to sail in the event. There will be huge pressure in terms of space for berthage, and numbers at pre-race functions such as the skippers’ dinners or lunches, and it is much easier to plan for these if we have accurate numbers. We will shortly be sending out a separate communication to all those on the provisional list, giving them full details on the event, but also asking them to confirm their participation, if possible.

Can you spot the difference between a fin whale, a humpback whale and a sperm whale just from their spouts? Can you tell your common dolphin from your Atlantic white-sided? If not, it’s time to bone up on your whale-spotting skills! An interesting development as regards this year’s Challenge is an approach from the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group (IDWG) with a suggestion that skippers record and eventually report any whale or dolphin sightings during their voyage. The IDWG is a ‘citizen science’ group that has been doing fantastic observational work for many years. The idea is that they will provide skippers who are happy to participate with identification cards and will collect any records of sightings on arrival in Baltimore. The IDWG’s view is that the passage of so many craft through the same area, virtually simultaneously, could provide very valuable data for them, especially as most of their observing is done from land. The Celtic Sea and southern Irish coast are rich in whale life, and it would be great if Jesters could help with research on this. A joint venture like this will also help further develop the Jester Challenge’s links with Ireland.

An efficient windvane self-steering gear is indispensable for the singlehanded sailor, and there is good news for those of you who use either of the British-built Sea Feather or Hebridean systems. After a period of uncertainty for both businesses, they are now in the good hands of Thomas Gregory and Ian Kirkwood respectively, ensuring their continued production, parts and servicing.

As we have previously reported, Jester Guy Waites has been participating in the current Golden Globe Race. Unfortunately he was retired from the main race, not having reached the Hobart Gate by January 31^st of this year. Despite this, Guy has carried on and is now close to the coast of South America and within striking distance of Cape Horn. Best of luck to him for the rest of his voyage!

Best wishes

The Jester Helm