The choice of course off Newport, along the spectator-lined coast, made for a rather boring in-port race. In light to medium winds there was no cross course, just a layline course with a slightly roomier counterpart. It was textbook one-way sailing.
The Spanish team Mapfre got off to the best start in Lee, took the lead, extended it unchallenged and converted it into a stage win. Team Alvimedica came second, also in this position from the start.
Once again, the performance of skipper Ian Walker and his team Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing was remarkable. From penultimate place, he sailed all the way to third place despite hardly any opportunities to attack.
Team SCA had held this position for a long time, but was overtaken by Abu Dhabi, as was Dongfeng, who took over the final lantern from Team Brunel.
The seventh stage to Lisbon starts today at 8.00 pm and will also be broadcast live.
The highlights of the Inportrace
The complete recording of the Inportrace
Lars Bolle
Chief Editor Digital
