The time has come to sum up this year’s Jester Challenge. This is not an easy task, as there is so much that is positive, counterbalanced by the devastating loss of one of our number.
This year a total of 43 skippers sailed in the event, the biggest number to participate in any of the 15 Jester Challenges sailed since its inauguration in 2006. Winds in the very early stages were extremely light, causing some retirements, but a large majority of yachts arrived at Baltimore in good order. This year also saw the initiation of our Sailing for Science project, in collaboration with the Irish Whale and Dolphin Group, with Jester skippers recording all cetacean sightings off the Irish coast.
However, the usual socialising at Baltimore was quickly tempered by concern for the whereabouts of Duncan Lougee and Minke, who failed to arrive as expected.
Most of you will by now have heard the sad news that after a protracted search in the Celtic Sea, Minke was finally located. Duncan was not aboard and the chances of finding him are slim.
It is as yet far too early to try to seek explanations as to what may have happened; and in any event any explanation is unlikely ever to be more than mere speculation. It would also be premature, while we are all still totally perplexed and numbed by this heartbreaking turn of events, to catalogue and celebrate Duncan’s huge contribution and influence as regards the development of the Jester Challenge, along with his many other fine qualities. That will come later, at an appropriate time and in an appropriate way.
This tragedy is a huge blow to all the members of Duncan’s family, and our thoughts are first and foremost with them. The tragedy also brings great sadness to the Jester family, which now numbers several hundred participating or aspiring skippers. Hopefully it will serve to make us stronger and more determined. Such is the Jester spirit.
For the moment, as we all come to terms with what has happened, in our own ways and in our own times, it seems that deep and quiet reflection may be in order. We all know in our hearts that over the thousands of ocean miles we have sailed, we have all been, at some point or another, within a hair’s breadth of calamity. The ocean is a dangerous place and the sea remorseless. We are the lucky ones. Let us reflect a little on those less fortunate.
Jester Challenge 
A great post. You have hit the nail on the head. But despite the tragedy, humans must be able to take those risks that bring them such fierce joy and enlightenment.
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