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'I still can't believe what is happening out there,' said a satisfied VON DER BANK. 'A start at the boat end, hit the right corner, and be in front. It's as easy than this.' Based in Kiel, 38 year old VON DER BANK already has a win at the Kieler Woche this year despite missing out a lot of training. 'I've spent last year cruising with my family,' he said, 'but in light conditions I can still keep up with the others.'

As well as BONEZZI, VON DER BANK's major competitor on the final day looks set to be Marcus HAMILTON (AUS), currently lying sixth overall. He got an arbitration 20 percent penalty for an incident in race four with John BROWETT (GBR). With a 27th place in the opening race, HAMILTON has two big discards which he would get rid of after eight races. Despite the light winds forecast for today and the likelihood of a strong challenge from BONEZZI and HAMILTON, VON DER BANK would not be content to sit out the final day, 'I like to sail and so I hope to defend my lead on the water,' he said.

Top Ten After Seven Races