Different tactics

Will decide the outcome in the Magellan Three Peaks Yacht Race

In light wind conditions the skippers of the two lead boats in the Magellan Three Peaks Yacht Race - Hellefix and Spirit of Barmouth - have set courses that could decide the outcome of the race.

The two skippers have elected to pass either side of the Island of Jura, with Spirit of Barmouth going to the west via the Sound of Islay while Hellefix passes to the east via the Sound of Jura. The tides in this area are very complex and there is no way of telling which will prove to be the right choice. As far as the remainder of the fleet is concerned, there is little definite information, though they are believed to be off the Mull of Galloway.

The leading boats are expected to reach Fort William in the early hours of tomorrow morning (Wednesday) with all the crews having a sleepless night as they row/navigate their way through till dawn. The runners will then have to scale Ben Nevis because completing the event.