SYDNEY, AUSTRALIA — After nearly 469 nautical miles, the leaders in what's often termed "the most enjoyable ocean race in Australia," are closing on the finish off Mooloolaba Harbour north of Brisbane. As of late Sunday, the water-ballasted Wild Thing held a 10-mile lead, while three-time IMS Bluewater Champion Roger Hickman and his crew aboard Atara were managing to maintain a narrow edge over George Snow's Scott Jutson-designed maxi Brindabella, thus protecting their series lead.
The 42-boat fleet departed Sydney Harbour on Saturday afternoon and the leaders are expected to finish later today. On Sunday evening, the yacht Phillips Foote reported northeast winds at 26 knots while the frontrunners appeared to be sailing in northeasterly breezes in the 15-18 knots range.