The F18 fleet of 28 boats set off from Stockholm yesterday in a stiff 10-12 knots of wind with team Brossard, one of the favourites, and Team Musto Australia first off the line. As the boats set off towards the Archipelago the conditions became increasingly tricky with a mix of stronger winds and light patches.

For many of the world-class fleet it was a baptism of fire as the stronger wind came in and ripped through the fleet resulting in a number of capsized boats. Navigating their way around a number of checkpoints the fleet then headed for Björnö one of the Archipelago’s beaches where they will repair their boats ready for the official start tomorrow.

Unfortunately for one team, Yamaha Silver (FRA) their Raid was ended before it had even begun as damage in transportation meant they were not able to start the race. For the rest of the teams it was a fast and furious day where preservation and damage limitation were paramount ahead of tomorrows official race start.

Bengt Nissar and Jan Schiratzki (SWE) onboard GB Glace were pleased with the day: “It was pretty windy out there so we were pleased not to break anything. We tripped over a few too many things today but we are still fit for a fight. We hear the forecast for tomorrow is less wind – which we hope [for] as there are a lot of teams here who will be very good in strong wind.”

Ryan Crawford (UK), Team Blue commented: “It was a great day today – it was very cool out there. We got better as the day went on and although we missed a checkpoint and went swimming, we got it together. It was fun.”

The official start was this morning from Bjorno. Depending on the weather the teams will navigate anywhere from five to ten checkpoints, finishing on the island of Fejan at the Northern end of the Swedish Archipelago.