In the end the IMOCA monohulls didn't have to tack around the Brazilian coast: the tradewinds kicked in just as the wind shifted to the East as expected. As they gain latitude the wind is set to continue to clock around further still to the SE. The analysis is simple: first of all the fleet have been able to slip past the Brazilian coast without any trouble, secondly the speeds have considerably increased, thirdly the nerve racking first few hours of racing are behind them and now the fleet are making headway in more ordered seas and less brutal waves as the breeze scoops them underneath the hook of Brazil. Mike Golding (Ecover III) has made great progress overnight and is currently right at the front of the fleet in third position behind Generali and Gitana Eighty.