Uniquely Singaporehas managed to steal line honours fromNova Scotiaby crossing the finish line at 0516 local (1216 GMT) Wednesday morning at the end of Race 8 from Hawaii to Santa Cruz. In a close finish in light airs the Singaporean team managed to overtakeNova Scotia, crossing less than an hour later at 0551 local (1251 GMT).

The victory forUniquely Singaporemarks their first win of the Clipper Race series, and their first podium position of the race so far.

A tactical decision to head north paid off for both teams as they achieved more favourable wind angles and avoided the wind holes that beset the rest of the fleet further south.

The majority of the fleet are expected to arrive over the next couple of days with the US entry,New Yorkexpected to take the final podium position and arrive in Santa Cruz Harbour later today.

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