The Equator today

Progress is slow for Olivier de Kersauson and Geronimo as they negotitate the Doldrums

Progress is not lookig brilliant for Olivier de Kersauson and the crew of Geronimo who at present are struggling, in maxi-multihull terms to get to the equator, which they will cross today.

In the 24 hours until 2317 last night de Kersauson's maxi-trimaran had sailed just 329 miles - her worst daily run so far this trip - as her progress was hampered by light winds from the north. At present she is a long way to the west which de Kersauson has deemed the optimum place to get south.

Geronimo is still behind Orange's 2002 record pace, but De Kersauson and his crew can gain solice from the fact that at this stage of their round the world bid Steve Fossett's Cheyenne was substantially further behind.