G'day everyone!

At 1751 hours New Zealand Standard Time, we crossed the finish line of the race just inside Petit Passe, Noumea, New Caledonia. Our elapsed time for the 988 mile course was 103 hours, 31 minutes. Average speed was 8 knots made good on the course. This put us third on line and second place on handicap in Cruising Division.

As we tied up to the marina at the Circle Nautique Caledonien, we were greeted by our "Godfamily" who were assigned to look after us during our stay in Noumea. They hopped on with Customs forms, fresh baked baguettes, pate, brie, fruits and some of the local beers. Everyone in Noumea has been most friendly and helpful.

After a few beers and a couple of rums (a kiwi yachting tradition), we had a shower and headed to the yacht club for dinner. The CNC was quite lively with the yachties who had already finished. We enjoyed an excellent BBQ dinner on the deck overlooking a marina full of yachts and launches, surrounded by high rise apartment buildings.

It wasn't a very late night for us as we were all pretty tired from the long hours of the last day of the race. We were all up early and gave MOONSHADOW a much needed tidy up.

Now that we are checked in with Customs, we're free to hit the town and have some fun on Friday night. Tomorrow night is the prize giving ceremony.

Cheers, George, Graham, Todd and Pete