Skipper soars in global challenge

The New York was first across the line in China

A skipper from south west Scotland has taken a third stage victory in a round-the-world yacht race.

Duggie Gillespie, 41, of Kirkcudbright, helped guide the New York to victory in the Singapore to China leg of the Clipper challenge.

The Scots sailor was only called up to the event after injury to the original skipper of the boat.

The latest win puts him in contention for a podium finish in the 35,000-mile race which ends in Liverpool in July.

"We're very relieved to have crossed the line in first place," said Mr Gillespie.

"It has been a physically hard race for us all and the crew have learned and experienced conditions I don't think many will want to see again.

"We persevered throughout and I'm really pleased for the crew that we have won this different but very tough leg."

The overall standings are being led by South African boat Durban 2010 and Beyond with the Scottish boat Glasgow: Scotland with Style in a close second.