SAILING:A DOGFIGHT to the finishing line at Wicklow Sailing Club was under way yesterday as the leading two boats in the Conway Media Round Ireland Race turned southwards for the final approach on the Irish Sea.
The “line-honours” winner is expected to finish around dawn this morning or possibly later depending on wind conditions for the final 80 miles of the 704-mile course.
The Dutch-owned Tonnerre de Breskens 3 has maintained its lead despite being a smaller entry than the favourite, Open 60-footer Rosslare Europort that has sailed within a few miles of the leader but as of last night had not managed to overtake the 46-foot boat ahead.
Such an outcome would have needed more downwind sailing conditions for which the Open 60 is optimised for but headwinds forecast for the Irish Sea are unlikely to generate any further opportunities.
The performance of Steve White’s bigger boat can also be seen via the online game in which 700 players are active.
Meanwhile, the battle for the overall victory to be decided on IRC handicap may now favour the leading boats, possibly Tonnerre or also French skipper Bernard Guoy on Inis Mor from Clifden Boat Club.
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