Cammas takes his time with victory in sight

Franck Cammas made a safety-first start to the ninth and final leg of the Volvo Ocean Race yesterday knowing that fourth place or better would secure only France’s second victory in off-shore racing’s premier event.

Cammas and his Groupama team are protecting a 25-point lead over US-led Puma at the head of the standings with the last stage worth 30 to the winner and five to last place.

An in-port race in Galway next Saturday completes the competition.

Barring a breakage or major sail damage, Cammas should have the speed at his disposal to beat at least two of the most competitive fleets in the race’s 39-year history but yesterday he kept clear of any early trouble for the 550-nautical mile trip from Lorient in Brittany to Galway, Ireland.

After an hour’s sailing, Groupama trailed their rivals going out of Lorient port, with Telefonica of Spain, whose long-time lead was overhauled in May by the French crew, protecting a slim advantage over Puma and Camper.

Cammas, who first made his name as a single-handed sailor, tightened his grip on the overall trophy on Saturday when he sailed a near-flawless in-port race in Lorient for victory and six vital points.

Shortly before setting sail for Ireland, he had a clear idea of the job in hand.

“I think if we finish fourth it’s enough, so we just need to keep that in mind,” he said.

The fleet is expected to arrive in Galway tonight to complete a 39,270-nautical mile, nine-month journey visiting five continents and passing through four oceans.