Ode to a Rally - Ketoro

A flotilla of yachts to the tip of Borneo
In no wind, slowly did go
Cilantro wept at the pace: “We’ve come to a halt!”
But Nimbus shrugged and poured a Single Malt,
Explaining: “We’ll just have to Linger Longer,
A Braveheart’s not required till the winds get stronger.”

“But, which way?” Ketoro did cry.
This Way Up came the aghast reply;
What will you do when you cross the Pacific:
Express your ignorance? This is horrific!”
The advice they received, best by far,
Was to use nightfall to follow the Rubicon Star.

Other yachts, leaving earlier, had gone in Full Flight,
The French (Baginaff, Cariad and Anne) were nowhere in sight;
There were those who came later, Chatelaine overtook;
Wave Sweeper a dentist required take a look.
Of others a mere Whisper, Chez Nous seen round the top;
Intiaq, Orono, Storm Dodger and Rhum Do - an earlier stop.

“Bye” to Nyami and Neptune who elsewhere flew,
Elevation, Naga, Kristie and Investigator II,
Harmonica went shopping (for a cat: they sailed miles)
While to aid parents - Present, and Ingrid of the Isles.

Through new rally acquaintances we had much to gain…
When other paths are taken, our memories remain.

Written and shared by Rolf and Irene, Ketoro