Source: CCTV.com
04-28-2009 10:49
Ericsson 4 won a dramatic sixth leg of the Volvo Ocean Race on Sunday, after completing a 4,900 nautical mile trip from Rio de Janeiro to Boston.
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| Ericsson 4, approaches the finish line of Leg 6 during the Volvo Ocean Race, Sunday, April 26, 2009 in Boston. There are seven Volvo Open 70 class boats participating in 10 legs of the around the world race. Ericsson 4 was the winner of Leg 6 to Boston. (AP Photo/Lisa Poole) |
Brazilian skipper Torben Grael and his crew crossed the finish line just 12 minutes ahead of sister ship Ericsson 3, with Telefonica Blue of Spain coming home third. Just a week ago, Ericsson 4 lay 112 miles behind long-time leaders Telefonica Blue.
But by getting the most out of the weather conditions, Ericson 4 closed the gap along with Ericsson 3. The trio traded the lead right up until the closing stages. It turned into a dash for Boston Harbour and Ericsson 4 came out on top. Grael and his crew tasted offshore victory for the first time since they won Leg 2 back in November.
The result gave the Swedish entry 77.5 points in the overall standings, opening up a 13-point lead over Telefonica Blue, with three inshore races and three more legs on the open sea still to come.
