The Third Fleet Race

Three-time defending champion Tom Slingsby of Team Australia showed everyone his resilience as he bounced back from two poor performances to win the third fleet race and stay in contention in the inaugural ROCKWOOL Canada Sail Grand Prix Halifax on Saturday.

The Current Standings

The top three boats will advance to the podium race, and as it stands, Giles Scott skippered Emirates Great Britain into first place with finishes of 3-5-2 for 23 points, with season leader Peter Burling of New Zealand second with 22 points and Nicolai Sehested of ROCKWOOL Denmark third with 21. Canada and Spain have 20 points each and the Aussies and France have 18 apiece. The Aussies are currently sixth overall in the 10-boat fleet of identical foiling 50-foot catamarans heading into Sunday’s final two fleet races.

The Path to the Final

The Aussies need to make a strong showing in the final two fleet races if they want to make it to the podium race, and it won’t be easy. However, Slingsby is optimistic and believes they have the talent and skillset to win.

A Tough Race

The day’s sailing conditions were shifty and gusty, and Slingsby said it was akin to being in a “dog fight.” However, he was pleased with the way he and his team sailed despite the challenges, and hopes to be on the podium when it’s all said and done.

A Controversial Match Race

Slingsby and his teammate, Nathan Outteridge, skippering the Swiss team, were involved in a match race that was deemed by Slingsby to be “aggressive” and “unlucky.” He believes Outteridge’s actions were intended to sabotage them, but he remains focused on his team’s performance going forward.

Looking Ahead

After Halifax, there are two regattas left in Season 4, with the top three boats reaching the $2 million winner-take-all Grand Final on July 14 in San Francisco. The Austrailia SailGP remains within touching distance of the podium race, and the event is shaping up to be a nail-biter for the fans in attendance and those tuning in from around the world.