Roger Ryman: Round Cornwall Day 7
It's not that we have been over indulging in the beer drinking over the course of this week, but rowing by day, several pints in the evening, and sleep deprivation do take their toll over successive days.
As we rowed into Newlyn harbour last night, a few of the boys were planning a quiet night. An evening in the Yacht Inn, Penzance was never going to be quiet! An excellent showing from the west Cornwall gig rowing fraternity, along with representatives from Cape Cornwall, and Cadgwith singers filled the pub to bursting. An excellent evening was had by all.
In the morning we headed out en route to St Mawes. Calm seas turned glassy calm, as we straight lined across Mount's Bay, turning on the weight on the paddles on occasion, taking the boat up to racing speed. We have been so lucky with the sea conditions this week, which have allowed us to reach all our destinations on schedule, and the sea remained flat calm as we rounded the Lizard, where we were fortunate to spot choughs on the cliffs.
A picnic lunch was served in Cadgwith by our excellent support crew, from there we headed out to navigate our way through the Manacles. We were joined for a while by Helford and Falmouth gig crews, and then soldiered on against wind and tide on the last few miles to St. Mawes. Tomorrow will be the last day of the row, returning to Charlestown at 6:00 pm. We don't know whether to be happy because we have achieved it, or sad because it is over.
