The fleet division has taken place as announced, and after last week's frenzy, clever tactics are now required. Groupama, Puma and Abu Dhabi chose the open, direct route to the east, while Telefonica and the rest are trying to cheat their way through the reef-infested waters of the Solomons. However, the boats will also have to contend with a different tidal cycle (only once a day) and the sometimes considerable lee of the volcanoes, which are up to 2000 metres high.
Who will come out on top in the end depends on the development of the weather and the wind conditions influenced by it. Puma and Groupama are far enough to the east to be able to approach the eastern cape of San Cristobal. Abu Dhabi, on the other hand, does not, and this could have serious consequences. "We are in a dilemma," says Abu Dhabi's skipper Ian Walker. "Sailing on in the east gives us a chance of third place if we don't catch Puma and Groupama. But we could also finish last, which would be more than annoying after our solid performance on this leg so far."
The mood of Puma skipper Ken Read, who was not particularly upset by a torn headsail that had to be taken below deck for repair, was different: "It remains exciting. We have the better angle and are closer to the finish. The others (currently) have more breeze, but also unknown waters with uncharted passages, a mysterious current and shifting winds."
The westerners, on the other hand, are counting on a disturbance that is currently passing over New Zealand and could soon bring them fresher westerly winds, which would also negatively affect the trade winds for the ships in the east. "Maybe the west is best after all," hopes Campers navigator Will Oxley.
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Divided by the Solomon Islands
Current positions and distances in the Tracker.
