After nearly 5,000 miles, the competition is still very tight in the fifth leg of the Volvo Ocean race. In fact, only 40 miles separate the first boat and the last boat. This tight competition has led to some tactical decisions more appropriate for an in-shore race than a 12,000 mile ocean race. As the fleet approached the island nation of Fiji, the crews needed to decide whether to pass to the east or the west. While most felt that going to the east was the best route, in spite of the upwind sailing, two yachts, PUMA and TELEFONICA BLUE chose, in fact, to pass between the two main islands.
In doing so, PUMA has been able to eek out a 3 mile lead. This is proving to be a very close competition on the way to Rio.
The fleet is expected to arrive in Rio in the end of march with an in-port fleet race scheduled for April 4th. From there, the fleet will depart on leg 6 to Boston on April 11th and in-port fleet racing is scheduled in Boston for May 9th.
Fleet racing as well as the starts of the distance legs represent a great opportunity to get out on the water and watch some fantastic sailing. Why not charter a yacht for a corporate outing or to entertain you freinds for these international events. Boatbookings.com can arrange a charter in any of the remaining ports. www.boatbookings.com