sailFar.net

People, Boats, and Stories => Off Topic/Humor => Topic started by: CapnK on November 09, 2012, 05:23:34 PM

Title: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 09, 2012, 05:23:34 PM
At least for the starting week(s), and/or until I get bored, and/or until I get too busy - I'm in.  ;D

I know Tim is doing it. Anyone else?

In-game username is "CapnK sailFar.net". (Duh... ;) )

Starts in a bit over 12 hours.

virtualregatta.com (http://www.virtualregatta.com)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 09, 2012, 05:43:24 PM
I am in on "Morning Dove" a Mono Open 60
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 10, 2012, 09:31:11 AM
I didn't get off the line until about 25 minutes post-start. So now I am in something like 80,000th Place... ;D

Update: Dammit - I ran aground right off the bat, and for the last 2hrs30mins thought I had gotten back underway - when I hadn't...  ::) :P >:(

Now we're moving again... and Tim has an almost 23nm lead on me... wah.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 10, 2012, 09:43:18 AM
Starboard tack? eh!
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 10, 2012, 09:52:19 AM
Quote from: Tim on November 10, 2012, 09:43:18 AM
Starboard tack? eh!

Had to reverse course to get off the dirt...  ::)

Made up 3/10nm in the last 15 minutes tho'... Watch out for black sails from astern!  ;D

Am now in 117,808th Place - picked up a position - woot! ;)

122,341
120,850
119,396
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 10, 2012, 09:55:36 AM
I was lucky and set a good heading last night, which is a good thing because I had forgot and didn't check untill well into the race, been pretty much on it ever since.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 10, 2012, 11:40:52 AM
I'm late to the party... as usual, sigh, have started, and just beginning to figure out the interface... "salientangle", an akena...

the human mechanics are not easily understood at first, but, it is becoming aparent...

edit, oh sheetz, just lost my navionics, crappers, went with that wind shift, and now have no idea... breaking out the plastic sextant, keep hope alive... sigh

edit, 2:25, my plastic sextant is an original asus 701, no hard drive, just keeping on keeping on, running "backtrack", don't ask...
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 10, 2012, 01:32:11 PM
I put you on my 'friends' list, SA. :)

After a miserable, rock-bound-aground start, it looks like I will be positioned pretty well to take advantage of the next wind shift and run almost straight up the lay line, which should help with my pretty dismal in-fleet position (119,000+ place, lol)

Edit: ...while I wrote the above, I jumped up to 116,620th Place! Trophy, here I come!!! ;)

Crossing Tims track 14nm astern, about 10nm from SA right now. 30nm from the 1st place boat.

Edit 2, 1:42PM: 113,256
Edit 3, 1:49PM: 109,386
Edit 4, 1:58PM: 105,035

Server went down with the first, 2PM wind update. I managed to get a course change in (& confirmed) just ahead of the crash - hope it shows up when they get the server unslagged. :)

Edit 5, 2:17PM: 99,214
Tim @70,119
SA @47,147

Server back up, but game still down. Bet the admins are going crazy. ;D

2:20PM: 92,444 & climbing
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 10, 2012, 02:35:16 PM
Just got back from having to go into town, kinda figured I would lose with a wind shift, oh well went fro 25000 to 77,00 just like that
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 10, 2012, 02:39:34 PM
Saw that you were only making ~7kts for a looong time. Hows about a Grog for "letting me play catch up"... ;D

Me: 82,576
You: 77,728

I'm thinking that to avoid getting too wrapped up in this for *months*, of setting a goal to see if I can get to within a certain ~th place (to be determined, reading thru old VG thread to see how we were doing there), and at that point be happy about it and willing to let it go. :)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 10, 2012, 02:46:22 PM
I think I remember getting pretty bored with it at one point last time and decided to do a jaunt into the Caribbean or someplace just for fun.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 10, 2012, 03:24:11 PM
Le site sera ? nouveau ouvert dans quelques minutes.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 10, 2012, 03:27:37 PM
Quote from: SalientAngle on November 10, 2012, 03:24:11 PM
Le site sera ? nouveau ouvert dans quelques minutes.

Makes more sense when you say it that way  ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 10, 2012, 03:31:14 PM
Back up.

72,156 :)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: maxiSwede on November 10, 2012, 04:52:09 PM
Have fun guys!  ;D

I am too busy with NANNA's 'to-do' list to participate....though it would be FUN!  ::)

On another note, I can hardly understand it's already 4 years since the last Vend?e Globe.

300 000 people on the docks (or most of them as close to the docks as they could come) and daily TV interviews with the sailors.

France knows how to make sailing a popular sport. In my native Sweden, the recent Gold Medalists in Starboat got 2 minutes on TV sport broadcast. Sad
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 10, 2012, 04:56:08 PM
Quote from: maxiSwede on November 10, 2012, 04:52:09 PM
Have fun guys!  ;D

I am too busy with NANNA's 'to-do' list to participate....though it would be FUN!  ::)


"to do list"!  :o oh poop  ::)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 11, 2012, 07:02:26 AM
Oh my, course change last night didn't validate, woke up this morning nearly aground, have lost 20,000 positions...
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 11, 2012, 08:16:14 AM
I cannot believe how many boats must be crowded around me  :o My bow is on the stern of the boat in 17,671 place and I am 30, 496!

Looks like a Spinnaker run to the Canaries after the turn south.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 11, 2012, 11:36:46 AM
keeping hope alive for a lifter soon, from the land of the headers, sigh... tim has good air, capt K as well...

Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Marc on November 11, 2012, 01:15:12 PM
Hey guys, I'm in last place but I'm in.  I'm aboard SV Lorinda a mono open 60.  Just faised my kite and gained a half knot!  Marc
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 11, 2012, 01:46:57 PM
Quote from: SalientAngle on November 11, 2012, 11:36:46 AM
keeping hope alive for a lifter soon, from the land of the headers, sigh... tim has good air, capt K as well...


I just got too close to shore wind dropped in half. Trying to get out of it without losing too much ground. Hoping for the wind shift soon, wish I could figure out when it was going to be.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 11, 2012, 02:01:07 PM
SA - You got an 11 degree lift in that quad.  8)

Tim - I saw that hole coming and have lost ground to you routing to avoid it - here's hoping that it pays off!  :-* ;D

Marc - I'll friend you - now c'mon and catch up!  :)

NOTE TO SELF:

Do NOT make sail/course changes inside of 15 minutes of official wind changes until the frikkin' admins solve the stability problems they are having...

(because if the changes I input made it in before I OK'ed or Disallowed them, then my boat is flying a spinnaker while still on a reach right now, and losing ground fast because of it...)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 11, 2012, 02:20:43 PM
Wellll I saw that hole to, and thought I could skirt it :D ::) but I threw up the Spinny and headed south in anticipation, hope it worked out  ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 11, 2012, 02:23:06 PM
Marc, will add you as well... whilst I'm skirting shore hazards, the site tells me "
Virtual Regatta est en maintenance.
Le site sera ? nouveau ouvert dans quelques minutes."
sigh

Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 11, 2012, 02:26:37 PM
Quote from: SalientAngle on November 11, 2012, 02:23:06 PM
Marc, will add you as well... whilst I'm skirting shore hazards, the site tells me "
Virtual Regatta est en maintenance.
Le site sera ? nouveau ouvert dans quelques minutes."
sigh



They are probably trying to see how they can stick in some more advertising. :P
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 11, 2012, 02:33:11 PM
Down for over 25 minutes now... Seems like this system would be fairly well stress tested by now... Last Vendee had similar numbers of players. Maybe the host company should change their name from "Many Players" to "Any players?" or "Many frustrated players"...  ::) :D

Down almost an hour now. I did get to see the Rankings page - and I've lost about 7,000 places...

-------------------------

If only one could punch a website in the face:

On FINALLY getting to login again, there is a message: "Bad sail! You have been using a bad sail for 1hr 13mins..."

>:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 11, 2012, 02:59:56 PM
Arhhhgg!
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 11, 2012, 03:10:08 PM
Still trying to get on, hope I don't get a message saying I have become a Basque shepherd!
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 11, 2012, 03:13:54 PM
Quote from: Tim on November 11, 2012, 03:10:08 PM
Still trying to get on, hope I don't get a message saying I have become a Basque shepherd!

You are doing fine, Tim - in fact, somehow you are exceeding the 7.6 windspeed by a full knot...  ???
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 11, 2012, 03:20:26 PM
Well i was on for a second, tried to make a correction and then it went down again. This will get old fast.

What makes it worse is my satellite connection takes forever to reload.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 11, 2012, 03:23:23 PM
slowly, slowly, you catchee the monkee,  ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 11, 2012, 04:12:22 PM
Quote from: SalientAngle on November 11, 2012, 03:23:23 PM
slowly, slowly, you catchee the monkee,  ;D

LOL! :)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 11, 2012, 04:24:25 PM
 :o :o :o I just discovered the "wind grid"   >:( >:( >:(
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 11, 2012, 05:21:54 PM
Quote from: Tim on November 11, 2012, 04:24:25 PM
:o :o :o I just discovered the "wind grid"   >:( >:( >:(
...and the 12 hour forecast is most disturbing,  :'(
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Marc on November 11, 2012, 08:29:39 PM
I'm just hoping that I can catch up with you guys.  I'm a cruiser, not a racer, but this sure is alot of fun
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 11, 2012, 08:45:59 PM
Marc, you need not worry. This is a very Loooong game, I guarantee you we will get stuck, get lost, go away from the computer for a day and suddenly you will catch up.

By not buying into the "gotta buy better sails" thing it stays just fun.

(LOL that said, I am sitting here trying to figure out to get it on my Itouch for when i go into town  ;D)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 12, 2012, 08:28:52 AM
I logged my other boat in, "KR deCap", it started back off of Cape Finisterre.

Marc, Tim is right. Especially when the frontal systems start rolling through - you'll see boats ahead sit and go nowhere while you're doing 20 knots for a wind shift or two catching up. Just use the Forecast to try and figure out how to be where the best wind speed/angle will be to keep moving and you'll do well. I think a lot of the people playing aren't really sailors, maybe only 20%, so it isn't real hard to advance up in the ranks, especially if you get some good wind breaks.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 12, 2012, 01:58:38 PM
Well, I have positioned my boats as well as possible for them to sail along for the next hour unattended, ready for the bi-daily server meltdown*... Hope y'all have done the same! :)

*(...so natch, today it will go smooth as butter...  ::))

;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 13, 2012, 03:43:46 PM
Yahoo! I am into 4 digits!! ;D   At least for the moment  ::) I have a feeling that will change by tomorrow.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 13, 2012, 05:05:22 PM
I see you at 9,554th - Congrats!  ;D

My routing change last night dropped me from the upper teens back to 35k+, then today with the S/SW turn I've climbed back up to under 23k and am knocking some more off every update. I marked a guy who was right next to me and ranked very close when I turned W last night. He has followed that eastern route, and is currently at 23,589k, so I think that all in all I have not lost much of anything *yet*. If I can work the next 24 hrs right, I think there should be a net gain that hopefully can get me up close to you at last... :P Of course right after that it's the equator and the doldrums, and we're gonna have to work hard because SA, Marc, and 'KR deCap' are gonna come screaming up on us from behind... ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 13, 2012, 05:43:58 PM
Quote from: CapnK on November 13, 2012, 05:05:22 PM
,,,we're gonna have to work hard because SA, Marc, and 'KR deCap' are gonna come screaming up on us from behind... ;D

SA will be screaming, but for all the wrong reasons,,,
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 14, 2012, 02:13:02 PM
Naturally! I have to go away from the computer for the rest of the day, a MAJOR wind shift,    and the site goes down!
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 14, 2012, 02:16:41 PM
GRRRRRRR....  >:( >:( >:(

Same here, need to turn about 90* for this shift... I guess it is the same for all, tho... I can see that apparently only 52,969 of the 250k players are connected.

Glad to see that you are ready - I noticed earlier that you would need to change sails on your current course or be headed in a big way!
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 14, 2012, 02:29:52 PM
Quoteheaded in a big way!

Like in blown backwards :)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 14, 2012, 02:46:14 PM
I guess I should have changed sails in anticipation of this, but it has gone well the last two days.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 14, 2012, 02:48:03 PM
Yeah - from now on, I will lose the last 20 minutes of every 12 hours in anticipation.

Their FB page is full of mad PAYING customers:

https://www.facebook.com/virtualregatta

At least I didn't pay anything! lol :D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 14, 2012, 02:52:28 PM
Yeh,  don't you like how they try to console by saying "don't worry your boat will keep moving"

Bloody heck yes, in the WRONG direction!

(on top of that, I am having satellite difficulties  ::) )
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 14, 2012, 02:56:59 PM
I managed to get a course change in... I hope it took...  ::)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 14, 2012, 02:58:20 PM
You got a 3 second refresh?  Takes forever to load up on satellite

Still not in... >:(
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 14, 2012, 03:02:41 PM
Am using AdBlock on FFox to turn off everything but the game part... I was on long enough to click your boat and see your speed was 0 - looked like you had advanced due W15 miles or so since last course change (which was prolly just the shift).
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 14, 2012, 03:04:26 PM
Sounds like some are getting in, some aren't.

Bet they don't have 250,000 playing after this
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 14, 2012, 03:15:33 PM
QuoteSail Kedyw Bilinski - "this is sailing vessel yachtkedywcom, give me back my money !"

And so starts the international Virtual Vendee Scam investigation...  ::) :o :D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 14, 2012, 03:17:59 PM
LOL, glad we are not among the paying customers  ;D But if it doesn't hurry up back on, I am going to have to walk away from it.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 14, 2012, 03:27:34 PM
I have "kellyPatrol" and the spy master on this case, we will reach resolution, "keep hope alive" sigh...

Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 14, 2012, 03:41:23 PM
I think that after 90 minutes they are going to have to start people off where they were 90 minutes ago... or lose LOTS of credibility and/or players...
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 14, 2012, 03:45:54 PM
my "plastic sextant", an asus 701 running linux backtrack on an SD Card survived the initial problems; suspect their reliance on flash server is the culprit... not that I would know of such things...  ;)

edit to note my winderze box gave up the ghost a full 30 minutes before the torvald os
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 14, 2012, 03:50:50 PM
Quote from: CapnK on November 14, 2012, 03:41:23 PM
I think that after 90 minutes they are going to have to start people off where they were 90 minutes ago... or lose LOTS of credibility and/or players...


Problem is that 90 min. might as well be 8 hours for me real soon
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 14, 2012, 03:54:20 PM
I just posted on their FB that if it is not up by 4, I am walking away...

Edit: I'm out.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 14, 2012, 04:13:12 PM
I am also, but how can you close the account when the site is down?
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 14, 2012, 06:45:15 PM
OK
PROTEST COMMITTEE NEWS:

The Protest Committee met this evening at 23:57 CET, 22:57 GMT, 14 November 2012 to discuss the issues facing the virtual Vendee Globe.

It was decided that at this time, no decision can be made regarding the race. However, the protest committee will meet again once more information is available and will then consider what steps to take.

The Protest Committee is made up of equal numbers of Virtual Regatta Staff and experienced players with sailing and race committee experience.PROTEST COMMITTEE NEWS:

The Protest Committee met this evening at 23:57 CET, 22:57 GMT, 14 November 2012 to discuss the issues facing the virtual Vendee Globe.

It was decided that at this time, no decision can be made regarding the race. However, the protest committee will meet again once more information is available and will then consider what steps to take.

The Protest Committee is made up of equal numbers of Virtual Regatta Staff and experienced players with sailing and race committee experience.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Marc on November 14, 2012, 06:57:51 PM
I just got in ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 14, 2012, 07:04:46 PM
capnK is making 16.6 knots n a 157degree course in 18.9 knot winds, looking to split the islands... his other sv is not visible, suspect visiting his sheep herding friends in the basque region...

Morning dove is singin at zero knots in 10,8knots wind, -53 degrees, but still a respectable 4digit placement...

our friend sv lorinda is at 12.9 knots in 15 knot winds, and, moving up the leaderboard

Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Marc on November 14, 2012, 07:29:54 PM
Its weird, when I first got on it looked like I was gonna hit another boat so I adjusted course, refreshed and waited the ten minutes and then the boat was GONE go figure.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 14, 2012, 10:12:05 PM
a bold, courageous, salient navigational effort by capnK, grog fer yer effort,,,
;)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 14, 2012, 10:19:12 PM
Quote from: Marc on November 14, 2012, 07:29:54 PM
Its weird, when I first got on it looked like I was gonna hit another boat so I adjusted course, refreshed and waited the ten minutes and then the boat was GONE go figure.

there is likely several hundred boats nearby, don't worry about collision at screen resolution, just saying....

ps, edit for your peace of mind, you did not sink the shype

second edit, it is a good thing we show more patience with our vessels than we afford commercial websites; again, slowly, slowly we catchee the monkee...


Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CharlieJ on November 14, 2012, 11:18:37 PM
darn folks -I have enough troubles with my REAL life ( it ain't fun anymore)- never mind a virtual one.

Jeez- it's a game!!!
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 14, 2012, 11:27:00 PM
Quote from: CharlieJ on November 14, 2012, 11:18:37 PM
darn folks -I have enough troubles with my REAL life ( it ain't fun anymore)- never mind a virtual one.

Jeez- it's a game!!!

Tim is real close to gibraltar, suspect he may make a med cruise for grins and giggles... just kidding,  ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CharlieJ on November 14, 2012, 11:30:09 PM
Grins and giggles are good. Hope he gets some- good area too ;)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 15, 2012, 12:44:02 AM
Been fishin!  ;D Just sitting waiting for CapnK to show up with the rum! :D

Actually I had to go out today away from the computer and since the game never got going again before I left, I was sitting with a backwinded spinnaker all day.

I am probably going to give it up, because today showed me how much of a time waster it can be.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 15, 2012, 12:50:37 AM
Quote from: Tim on November 10, 2012, 02:46:22 PM
I think I remember getting pretty bored with it at one point last time and decided to do a jaunt into the Caribbean or someplace just for fun.

tim, just a reminder from you previous post... the med is at your doorstep, cheers,  ;)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 15, 2012, 01:04:01 AM
Great idea!
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 15, 2012, 09:55:28 AM
Wow! So the whole game was down for *5 hours*? That is plain crazy, heads must be rolling... or should be.  :P

People who bought all of the options spent about 50 Euros for them, IIRC. Figured at the hourly rate I charge businesses, I spent about $150 on it yesterday, basically sitting here for two hours before giving up on it. Should I send them a bill? ;D

But now I understand what it must be like to be a gambler playing the slots or whatever, hoping beyond hope that this _next_ refresh will load the site... Insanity, by that one definition. :)

My strategy as I had it planned (prior to others poor planning screwing it up) would have had me likely a bit further S and about 180 miles W of my current position. A boat I saw there, about where I'd figured to be now, is currently 7k places ahead of me. That is what most bothers me - dagnabit, I wanted to see if my strategy would have worked to get me into the top 10k!

Since IMO this Vendee race is a wash, how about the sailFarer's meet at the Cape Verdes, and once everyone is fetched up on shore there, have our own shotgun start of the Southern Oceans Romp ;), ending with the winner being the first person to run aground on the Falkland Islands - something like that?

Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 15, 2012, 10:08:50 AM
QuoteSince IMO this Vendee race is a wash, how about the sailFarer's meet at the Cape Verdes, and once everyone is fetched up on shore there, have our own shotgun start of the Southern Oceans Romp Wink, ending with the winner being the first person to run aground on the Falkland Islands - something like that?

Sounds fine to me, after getting knocked from 6000 to 29000 place by the outage  ::)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 15, 2012, 01:56:38 PM
The result of the race committee  ;D
(posted on FB)
Here's the report: the race Committee met today to analyze the unavailability of the game between 20: 00 and midnight on 14 November. The Committee is composed of players virtual regatta and members of the team in equal proportions. The Committee analysed the following: ?the time of inaccessibility and its impact ?the duration of the race run and remaining ?the number of players the different solutions possible in the first place, the Committee considered the possibility of a restart or a return back. It took into account that some players have developed a long-term strategy based on the wind forecast several days in advance. Others have programmed their boats in advance or had amended their boats Cape before 8 pm as a precaution and were not impacted. Many have made efforts to be in the position they were waiting and had not suffered material injury and a restart of the race would be their harm. Similarly, a return back, but with actual wind data, this solution would also a disadvantage for those who have been working on a weather strategy in the long term. Accordingly, the Committee decided that it would not restart of the race. The Committee then considered compensation for the players. The Committee took into account that players were disappointed, frustrated or angry. However, the role of the Committee is to find a fair solution for the largest number. It was felt that compensation on offer would be unfair to the players already equipped. In conclusion, the Committee to decided that compensation would be unfair, it will therefore not be. Taking into account all these elements, the Committee to found that nothing will offset all the participants in a fair manner. However it is not normal that no action is taken. It was therefore decided to recommend to Many Players that a charitable donation is made in the direction of a charity related to the sea in recognition of the loyalty of the players. The race Committee.

Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 15, 2012, 02:58:27 PM
Condensed version:

If our screw up bothered you, too bad, bugger off.

But we know we can't seem to be *complete* buttheads, so we gave $50 to the Australian Navy Rescue Team as a token.

Now go away - you bother us.

;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 15, 2012, 03:01:47 PM
Quote from: SalientAngle on November 14, 2012, 10:12:05 PM
a bold, courageous, salient navigational effort by capnK, grog fer yer effort,,,
;)


That was the course change I was considering based on my position at the time, and I guess it squeaked in just as the failure started. Then I decided checked time/winds/distances and decided to go west instead, but couldn't reconnect...

Thx for the Grog. ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 15, 2012, 03:06:40 PM
Quote from: CapnK on November 15, 2012, 02:58:27 PM
Condensed version:

If our screw up bothered you, too bad, bugger off.

But we know we can't seem to be *complete* buttheads, so we gave $50 to the Australian Navy Rescue Team as a token.

Now go away - you bother us.

;D

What can you expect from the French  ;D  Their rational is so FOS and transparent, you are right, they don't want to be bothered by non-paying swabs like us  ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Marc on November 15, 2012, 07:08:17 PM
I'm game to have our own race, but I'm still pretty far behind it's the tacking that has slowed me down, any advice for the lake sailor from Iowa?
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 15, 2012, 07:39:25 PM
Marc, you're just ~130 miles behind the 'KR deCap' boat, and that's only a half day at ~10 kts. No worries, no rush, just work on going as fast as you can and you'll be at the Verdes in no time. :) A course roughly down the orange line area is looking like it's gonna be a sleigh ride for the next several days...

I pay close attention to the wind direction in neighboring squares - if moving over a few miles gets just a few degrees difference in heading, it can make for an extra 10-20 miles at the end of a day. The fastest line isn't always the best way, either - I try to estimate where a given speed and course will land me at the *next* wind shift, and then extrapolate the following one as well, at minimum; planning 4-5 shifts out affects my course right now, lots of times...

Use the distance numbers that are just over your name on the screen to see how far the pointer is from your boat, and you can calculate speed and time for an estimate of how far you'll travel on a given course before the next shift, and where that puts you in relation to the winds coming up.

I'll race you there for practice! :D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 17, 2012, 12:16:51 PM
OK, I have created a second boat "Lost Petral" I am currently on the rumba line just west of the Canaries.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Captain Smollett on November 17, 2012, 02:09:53 PM
Quote from: Tim on November 17, 2012, 12:16:51 PM

I am currently on the rumba line just west of the Canaries.


Sounds like some happen' moves.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 17, 2012, 02:39:15 PM
Quote from: Captain Smollett on November 17, 2012, 02:09:53 PM
Quote from: Tim on November 17, 2012, 12:16:51 PM

I am currently on the rumba line just west of the Canaries.


Sounds like some happen' moves.

Considering how many boats there are out there, it is like a rumba line  ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 17, 2012, 02:47:26 PM
Quote from: Tim on November 17, 2012, 02:39:15 PM
Quote from: Captain Smollett on November 17, 2012, 02:09:53 PM
Quote from: Tim on November 17, 2012, 12:16:51 PM

I am currently on the rumba line just west of the Canaries.


Sounds like some happen' moves.

Considering how many boats there are out there, it is like a rumba line  ;D

I'm doing a line of rum... in south cackalacky miniature bottles  ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 17, 2012, 06:21:09 PM
Dang, I don't know if my bilge pump can keep up  :o

I am losing close to 500 places every 10min on BOTH boats
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Marc on November 17, 2012, 09:10:22 PM
I'm on call for my job tonight so I cannt party with the Captain  :(
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 17, 2012, 09:21:11 PM
Quote from: Marc on November 17, 2012, 09:10:22 PM
I'm on call for my job tonight so I cannt party with the Captain  :(
oh my, a 'real' v. 'virtual' moment, grog, nonetheless, maybe in a south cackalacky miniature airline bottle (they worked for me)  ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 18, 2012, 02:43:53 PM
 ::) I guess the non-payers were getting too close to the lead again
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 18, 2012, 03:10:10 PM
Quote from: Tim on November 18, 2012, 02:43:53 PM
::) I guess the non-payers were getting too close to the lead again
yeppers, just went to adjust course to avoid running aground in africa, sigh, let me change course, but would not validate...
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 18, 2012, 03:14:46 PM
LOL ther is now a Facebook "Reimbursement" page, at least I think that is what it is saying ;)

https://www.facebook.com/remboursementvirtualVG?filter=2

And once again, I am heading out for the afternoon, so what ever course my boats are on, they will stay that way for awhile. :)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 19, 2012, 11:58:01 AM
Gold bullion retrieval from pirate ship on the high seas

At approximately 1700 UTC off the West Africa coast at 14*N49'33", 19*W14'11" the US flagged "Morning Dove" boarded unflagged sailing vessel ""CapnK sailFar.net" and removed an unknown quantity of gold bullion shown in photo below that had been secreted from an unknown supplier on the eastern US seaboard. Intended destination of the pirated bullion is unknown, but speculation is that the rogue ships captain had intended to sail around the world waiting until said bullion had increased in value then unloading it in Hawaii there to retire to being the surfbum he truly is.

(http://sphotos-a.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/c0.0.298.298/p403x403/542881_10151311839132079_1816614413_n.jpg)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 19, 2012, 12:16:34 PM
Update: At approx 1700UTC, rogue vessel "CapnK sailFar.net" passed tantalizing close to, but out of cannon range of, the bow of the USIRS "Morning Dove".

That the rogue vessel is manned by sugar, caffeine, and lard-powered beings who can stand "24 on/24 on" watches, it is likely that this could have been the last sighting of said vessel.
Prior "evidence" of boarding and capture has been proven to be of the "manufactured" type, when an alert reader image-searched the proferred 'evidence' and found it to be a fairly common stock photo used by news agencies for another, unrelated story (http://tinyurl.com/bobjuom).

As the vessel slipped away towards the horizon, a banner was seen to unfurl from the mast top. According to witnesses, it said:

Eat wake, gov't revenuer!
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 19, 2012, 12:20:06 PM
I told those CIA guys that story wouldn't work
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 19, 2012, 04:09:41 PM
sFSOR, anyone? Or should deCap pass on by the Cape Verdes...?
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 19, 2012, 04:24:44 PM
"Lost Petral" will if others want
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Marc on November 19, 2012, 06:16:59 PM
Lead the way, I just ate 4 twinkies!
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 19, 2012, 09:16:28 PM
I'll put ashore, find a pub, and wait there for y'all to tie up next to me. ;)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 19, 2012, 10:42:34 PM
I should be there by tonight, I hear the Tam Tam has a nice bar and restaurant, they serve Irish food go figure. At least I can get a Guinness ;)

I also hear there is some decent surf on "Sal" hope you brought your board as we will be waiting around for a day or so for the others Capn.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CharlieJ on November 19, 2012, 11:31:33 PM
Ya'll are just havin' too much fun ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 19, 2012, 11:52:40 PM
LOL Charlie, I am on the edge of the storm moving through the PNW so I have been stuck indoors all day
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CharlieJ on November 20, 2012, 12:02:32 AM
Saw reports of that- bad stuff. Hope all do ok.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Marc on November 20, 2012, 08:17:24 AM
I think I may have just made my last tack to come join you guys!  I'm under spinnaker doing 13.5 knots in a 13.5 knot wind!  WOW.  What are we going to do after everyone shows up?
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 20, 2012, 08:56:58 AM
I hadn't added a second s/v (too many other things going on); but, will go and add one later this morning...
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 20, 2012, 09:34:22 AM
I am going to be away from the computer the rest of the day.  Fair winds! 
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 20, 2012, 10:33:33 AM
have added AcuteAngle, very generous position on rhumb line just east of Verdes, course set to join the "2nd" event, cheers, -jim
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 20, 2012, 11:57:49 AM
How are Lost Petral and KR deCap enjoying Sal?

Any thoughts on visiting Santiago for the layover?
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 20, 2012, 12:15:29 PM
Quote from: Marc on November 20, 2012, 08:17:24 AM
I think I may have just made my last tack to come join you guys!  I'm under spinnaker doing 13.5 knots in a 13.5 knot wind!  WOW.  What are we going to do after everyone shows up?
capk mentioned a falklands grounding, but, I'll lobby for Morehead City, Annapolis, Norfolk or something in that vicinity...
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 20, 2012, 01:54:48 PM
s/v AcuteAngle visits Sal

The most excellent support staff of s/v SalientAngle sent a helicopter to sistership s/v AcuteAngle early this afternoon (est) to retrieve the captain for a quick inspection of the accomodations at Club Hotel Riu Funana/Garopa and a complimentary portuguese wine tasting anticipating the layover and formation of sail far race committee and other details...

Satisfied, Jim has returned to AcuteAngle...

cheers
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 20, 2012, 04:35:00 PM
For Immediate Release

SailFar Scoot !!!

Four SailFar Vessels are meeting up on the island of Sal in the Cape Verdes.

It is not too late to join the festivities. Simply register a boat at http://virtualregatta.com (http://virtualregatta.com), you will be placed at the "rhumb line" and sail northwest to Sal Island in the Cape Verdes...

edit: 7:03 pm (est), s/v AcuteAngle makes landfall and joins tim and capnk on island sal
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 20, 2012, 08:54:22 PM
Quote from: SalientAngle on November 20, 2012, 11:57:49 AM
How are Lost Petral and KR deCap enjoying Sal?

Any thoughts on visiting Santiago for the layover?


can I buy a vowel?
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 20, 2012, 09:17:51 PM
I found a great all-you-can-eat hibachi buffett. Who'da thunk it, in the CV's?
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 20, 2012, 11:04:29 PM
s/v AcuteAngle is departing cape verdes with the intent of beaching on Cape Hatteras, cheers, and good luck !!!!
(decision follows new post in member only area)





Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 21, 2012, 12:03:09 AM
For Immediate Release

SalientAngle consortium has sent secondary boat s/v AcuteAngle on a course to beach at Cape Hatteras, North Cackalacky.

The syndicate had reserved conference rooms and accomodations for all on the Island Sal at Club Hotel Riu Funana/Garopa.

Those accomodations will be honored as the race committee is formed.
Good luck and fair winds to all.

Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 21, 2012, 12:38:47 AM
UPDATE

Marc, aboard s/v Lorinda, approaches landfall at Island Sal. Meanwhile, the secondary entry of CapnK has pivoted... his long slog boat reversed course earlier... updates and film at 10...
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 21, 2012, 01:17:46 AM
For Immediate Release

AcuteAngle to become R/V

SalientAngle cosortium announced a research component to their secondary boat following the abandonment of both the Vendee and sfSOR races, team president Jim said today.

"We have been impressed with the wind and navigational metrics on this flash player, but, we have not seen currents come into play," the team president said.

"R/V AcuteAngle will explore those metrics and algorithms on its trip west," he stated.

"I suspect when we depower sail in the gulf stream we will not see any impact," he further opined.

Meanwhile, the consortium confirmed that s/v SalientAngle would continue the Vendee Globe campaign.

This breaking news will be updated.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 21, 2012, 05:57:37 PM
I don't think that currents are a part of the game.  :-\ It isn't a very complex modeling of the physics at all, in fact - I think they did that on purpose so lubbers could play as easily as salts...

ie - Users: Point boat, pull sails in/out to best speed, adjust as needed, repeat. Admins: rake in ad revenue from a half million discrete visitors per day...  ::)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 21, 2012, 06:12:01 PM
Agree, CapnK, my previous post was tongue firmly implanted in cheek...
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 23, 2012, 07:41:56 PM
01:30:00 UTC+1, 11-24-2012 UPDATE

The Globe race continues; and, it is important to note in a "long slog" race these positions are fundamentally not relevant. Here is the current rankings of known  sailfar members:

s/v SailientAngle (salientangle) 62.579th
s/v CapnK sailFar.bet (capnk) 113,918th
s/v Morning Dove (tim) 168,159th

The following are aground at Island Sal in Verdes, awaiting the start of sfSOR:

s/v SV Lorinda (marc) primary globe entry
s/v KR deCap (capnk) secondary globe entry
s/v Lost Petral (tim) secondary globe entry

r/v AcuteAngle (salientangle) secondary globe entry departed Verdes on a research mission to North Cackalacky

Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 24, 2012, 10:25:33 AM
Quote from: SalientAngle on November 23, 2012, 07:41:56 PM
01:30:00 UTC+1, 11-24-2012 UPDATE

The Globe race continues; and, it is important to note in a "long slog" race these positions are fundamentally not relevant.

Right. I don't think the leaders are as far ahead as they seem - huge gamble, getting that deep, over in the Gulf of Guinea... The result will be interesting to see.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on November 24, 2012, 05:33:56 PM
Crossed the Equator... party time! :D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 24, 2012, 05:41:43 PM
Quote from: CapnK on November 24, 2012, 05:33:56 PM
Crossed the Equator... party time! :D

congratulations, cheers, and all the respect of shell backs everywhere; I assume you were'nt a pollywog, grog !!!
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 24, 2012, 10:44:55 PM
Well this is real interesting. After being bumped off and having to reload it is not recognizing either of my persona's. So I think I will let it go, and wait for the SailFar Game ;)



On edit; Must have been another server glitch, now it is taking my password
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on November 28, 2012, 09:39:56 AM
I am sure glad I am not someone taking this game seriously. Besides all the system shutdowns, they make some design changes mid-game and now inform us that the ranking is all screwed up and MAY be straightened out next week.  ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on November 28, 2012, 10:36:32 AM
Quote from: Tim on November 28, 2012, 09:39:56 AM
I am sure glad I am not someone taking this game seriously. Besides all the system shutdowns, they make some design changes mid-game and now inform us that the ranking is all screwed up and MAY be straightened out next week.  ;D

It seemed their position algorithm was heavily skewed to longitude at the expense of latitude... it will be very interesting to see how their code scores the incredible number of choices for the "ice gates"...
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on December 02, 2012, 12:46:19 PM
Quote from: SalientAngle on November 28, 2012, 10:36:32 AM
Quote from: Tim on November 28, 2012, 09:39:56 AM
I am sure glad I am not someone taking this game seriously. Besides all the system shutdowns, they make some design changes mid-game and now inform us that the ranking is all screwed up and MAY be straightened out next week.  ;D

It seemed their position algorithm was heavily skewed to longitude at the expense of latitude... it will be very interesting to see how their code scores the incredible number of choices for the "ice gates"...

the winds on the "other side" of the prime meridian are not cooperating at the moment, sigh  :-\
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on December 02, 2012, 01:35:54 PM
Quote from: SalientAngle on December 02, 2012, 12:46:19 PM


the winds on the "other side" of the prime meridian are not cooperating at the moment, sigh  :-\

Yep, looks like a slow upwind slog for a few days, still a long ways to go.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on December 02, 2012, 02:13:42 PM
Hmmm, glad I made a course change BEFORE this wind reprogramming.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on December 02, 2012, 03:32:24 PM
I am not getting it to load up still, anyone else having problems?
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on December 02, 2012, 03:41:41 PM
Quote from: Tim on December 02, 2012, 03:32:24 PM
I am not getting it to load up still, anyone else having problems?


Tim, have not had any problems today, YET  ???
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on December 02, 2012, 03:48:41 PM
Thanks, must be something with my satellite connection
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on December 02, 2012, 06:34:39 PM
Well, whatever the problem I can't seem to fix it, still not loading completely. This on either the Netbook or Mac. It is weird because it started happening right at the wind change, and I even had a brief notice of a problem when I first tried reloading.

Satellite speeds are slower than DSL and there is a delay as the signal bounces heavenly and back, so I am guessing that is having something to do with it.

In any case if it persists, I am pulling away from the game as it is very frustrating trying to gain ground only to have something like this knock me back. I am currently on a course due south so if nothing changes I will hit Antarctica next week.  ;D
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on December 02, 2012, 06:38:48 PM
Quote from: Tim on December 02, 2012, 06:34:39 PM
Well, whatever the problem I can't seem to fix it, still not loading completely. This on either the Netbook or Mac. It is weird because it started happening right at the wind change, and I even had a brief notice of a problem when I first tried reloading.

Satellite speeds are slower than DSL and there is a delay as the signal bounces heavenly and back, so I am guessing that is having something to do with it.

In any case if it persists, I am pulling away from the game as it is very frustrating trying to gain ground only to have something like this knock me back. I am currently on a course due south so if nothing changes I will hit Antarctica next week.  ;D

It is a shame you didn't keep your due east heading so you could cross the prime meridian  ;)

there is always the capk challenge, I expect r/v AcuteAngle (sistership of SalientAngle) to arrive in North Cackalacky soon... may send back to Island sal in verdes for the ongoing grog and festivities  ::)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on December 02, 2012, 07:07:47 PM
Well after 5 hours of trying it loaded up completely (for the moment) I don't hold much hope for the future though as it has often required a complete reload of the game.

We shall see.
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on December 02, 2012, 07:18:08 PM
Quote from: Tim on December 02, 2012, 07:07:47 PM
Well after 5 hours of trying it loaded up completely (for the moment) I don't hold much hope for the future though as it has often required a complete reload of the game.

We shall see.

patience, my friend, in particular during circumnavigation, and, remember your cache sizes  ;)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on December 02, 2012, 07:29:21 PM
Patience really isn't the problem, if I can't get on to make course changes, I go the wrong way  :(

And my caches have been cleaned a few times today ;)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: SalientAngle on December 02, 2012, 08:01:25 PM
Quote from: Tim on December 02, 2012, 07:29:21 PM
And my caches have been cleaned a few times today ;)

In addition to cache, clean the grog from the cask !!!  8) :o ;D :D ;)
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: CapnK on December 03, 2012, 12:46:48 PM
I noticed they had an issue at the 20:00 change yesterday, I'd already set course (I do it 1-2 reloads ahead of time now as a matter of course, no pun intended), but it was 30 minutes or so that the server was giving me an error/update message afterwards before I was able to log out then back in and see it working properly.

Tim, it could be that the satellite company cache needed reloading.... I am not sure how they handle it, but I can see why for technical reasons they would use caching moreso than a cable/wired ISP like Time Warner or ConCast...
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on December 03, 2012, 01:13:46 PM
That is a likely explanation.

On another note, at the moment I am only getting up to a 24 hour wind outlook, anybody else?

on edit; back to further out wind forecasts now
Title: Re: Virtual Vendee Globe 2012
Post by: Tim on December 03, 2012, 02:11:29 PM
Well here we go again, just got the same message as yesterday.

On edit; Back on now