HOW TO KEEP THE LEAD

Heading round the first windward mark it has finally happened – you are in first place and lead the fleet onto the next leg of the course. Your mind goes wild with thoughts and having never been in this situation before you’re not quite sure what to do or even what to think.

For a lot of people, leading a race can be quite a daunting prospect. Without the comfort of watching boats in front of you it feels like your every move is being intensely watched by a gaggle of hungry boats breathing down your neck.

At this stage many descend into chaos, forgetting their normal routines and behaviours and instead resorting to emotionally charged, wild decisions with