Race 8 course shortening

The Clipper Race Committee has been closely monitoring the fleet’s progress and the weather forecast and has taken the decision to shorten Race 8. This is due to a large wind hole developing between the fleet and the Finish Line, and the tidal heights that put a restriction on the fleet’s entry times to the Zhuhai Jiuzhou Marina. It is necessary that the fleet’s arrival into Zhuhai is not delayed due to the impact on crew changeover, refresher sailing and preparations for the next race.

Therefore, the Race Committee has stated that Race 8 will officially end at 0000 UTC (0800 LT) on Wednesday 6 March 2024 and teams will then make best speed toward the marina.

To determine the race results, teams have been instructed to send positions to the Race Office at 0000 UTC (0800 LT). Race 8 finishing positions will be awarded based on the shortest measured distances to the centre of the Finish Line. The measurements will be verified and confirmed by the Race Office.

The fleet is expected to arrive in port during the planned arrival window of 1630-1730 on Wednesday 6 March.