AQ © Anne Quemere
The past few weeks were mostly spent on land, whether I liked it or not! But planning takes the forefront for the Pacific sailing. Running back and forth to Paris has increased and it keeps me away from the Baie de Quiberon and my ocean going exercises.
It's now official: There will be two information centers of my Pacific crossing venture. One will be established in the "Commanderie du Clos-Montmartre" in the 18th Arrondissement, in the heart of Paris. Believe it or not but there is a vineyard on this property, managed by Gilles Guillet, the Grand Master, aided by his council who, with a steel hand in a velvet glove is the keeper of the past successes and the dreams of the future for the wines of Montmartre.
This little miracle in Montmartre is lodged in a former public fountain, which will be open to the public. There will be a photographic exhibition as well as films of my past Transatlantic challenges. This will allow the school children to ask me questions by satellite phone during the trip. This will be the link between land and sea as well as a point of contact. At the same time, a similar link will be established in Brittany, probably in an oceanographic center. More information on that matter will come later.
Money wise, well I still haven't nailed down a senior sponsor. Needless to say it is my main priority and a constant preoccupation. I take this opportunity to thank all those who have worked so hard and who support me to assure the success of the Transpacific challenge.
One can't be in two places at the same time, but I must find the time to resume my ocean based training. The Oceankite is ready for its San Francisco departure but there still remains equipment to be tested before a final choice is determined.
Right now, "to each his own" but the main point is to find the right wind!
