In light of the extreme conditions that have been forecast to hit the 300-strong Fastnet fleet over the next few days, the four ORMA 60 have taken the wise decision to pull out. Those remaining in Cowes included: Pascal Bidegorry on Banque Populaire, Lionel Lemonchois (Gitana 11), Franck Cammas (Groupama 2), and Antoine Koch (Sopra Group).

There have been several other withdrawals from the race too so far totalling 11 boat, including: Matt Baker’s Dazcat 10 trimaran, Paradox, Armel Le Cleach’s Open 60 Brit Air, and Christopher Anderson’s Freedom 35 Heavens Above V. Interestingly however, others – on the Fastnet waiting list – have stepped into their places.

The postponed race is just about to go into the start sequence with the IMOCA Open 60 first away at 1100, followed by IRC 3, IRC2, IRC 1, IRC Z, IRCSZ and Canting keelers, and finally, at 1300, the Multihulls.

Keep an eye on yachtingworld.com for news as it happens.