We’ll cross the equator four times and the Doldrums five during the entire race. And these Doldrums are as untrustworthy as a black widow, Adam and Eve’s apple, or a snake disguised as the devil.
This third time, MAPFRE managed to come out in the leading pack. After battling clouds, huge wind shifts and a 1.5-knot strong current for the last couple of hours, we held on to the wind of a cloud and exited this area first. This really has little to do with sailing. It looks more like a marina with all boats moored rather than an ocean where racing is taking place.
We stayed to windward of the fleet and everybody onboard is happy and motivated to hold on to the lead and soar down to Auckland. Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing and Dongfeng Race Team have sped up to leeward, sailing lower and quicker than us.
We are 1200nm away from the finish line. This is going to be tight and the finishing order depends on how we sail from here to there.
#vamosMAPFRE!
Fran