Global Challenge nears its conclusion

Light and variable conditions as round the world fleet enter the English Channel

Currently battling at the front of the pack on Leg Seven of the Global Challenge yacht race, with less than two days to the finish, BG Spirit skipper, Andy Forbes, and his 18-strong crew are really feeling the pressure and excitement of ocean racing. As the overall race leader in these final stages, having raced over 32,500 miles circumnavigating the globe, experiencing extreme weather conditions and pushing their personal boundaries - a podium position is well within sight.

This race has been the most closely fought Global Challenge round the world yacht race to date, with levels of competition being higher than ever previously witnessed. Anything could happen on this final 420nm drag race home from La Rochelle and the BG Spirit crew must demonstrate what a slick well-oiled machine it has become, as any mistake could cost vital points. Individuals must draw on the knowledge and skills they have acquired and continue to work as a highly professional ocean racing team in order to gain any extra speed or advantage over their 11 competitors.

As they enter the English Channel, tensions onboard will be running high in the light and variable conditions currently afflicting the fleet, but BG Spirit's 24 hr average of 8.4 knots has placed them in a strong position at the front of the pack with their closest rivals just a few miles behind. Inch by inch they draw ever nearer to the finishing line in Portsmouth when the accomplishment of completing their shared objective, to achieve something extraordinary in their lives, will be fulfilled.

Their thoughts and feelings in these final days will be of mixed emotions. The realisation that this momentous adventure is drawing to a close poses life changes for some and a return to the norm for others. Skipper Andy Forbes and the crew of BG Spirit share many experiences; four podium finishes out of six, winning the BG Group 24 Hour Run Trophy during the second Southern Ocean Leg, along with all the highs and lows from living, working and racing together for nine months on a yacht.