11th Hour Racing Team is now firmly at the top of The Ocean Race In-Port Race leaderboard after winning the Itajaí In-Port Race today.

It was a flawless performance from the team as they timed their approach to the leeward end of the start line perfectly in the light conditions, resulting in a strong start that allowed them to dominate the two-lap race course from start to finish.
"We did a really fantastic job staying flexible at the start," explained Francesca Clapcich, the Trimmer onboard 11th Hour Racing Team. "We had 8-10 knots of breeze and tricky weather conditions, which wasn't quite what we expected. But ultimately, by remaining flexible and through good communication, we managed to stick to our final call on what the sail plan should be and kept it clean and simple.

"It's the kind of mentality and communication that we need to keep the momentum going for the next 20 days."

Not usually one for big celebrations on camera, Skipper Charlie Enright stepped off Mālama, and onto the dock, diving straight into the embraces of the rest of the team, who had been waiting to welcome the crew ashore.

"You know what, it does feel good," said Charlie, surrounded by his wider shore team. "We can't ignore the pressure; we're at an inflection point in the race, the eleventh hour, if you will," he smiled wryly. "If that performance is indicative of what's to come - and I believe it is - then that's great. Today's result is a good starting point for a leg home into Newport, which means a lot to all of us at 11th Hour Racing Team."

After a tough 37-day, 20-hour leg through the Southern Ocean with multiple onboard issues, the whole team has been working tirelessly behind the scenes to make repairs and get the boat ready for the upcoming leg.

"Are we where we want to be on the leaderboard?" asked Charlie. "Absolutely not. But do I think we have what it takes as a team? Yes, I do."