THE crew of the Glasgow Clipper helped make the latest leg of the round the world yacht race the most thrilling yet.

Despite finishing fifth, the Glasgow: Scotland With Style Clipper sailed neck and neck with race leaders Hull & Humber for much of the race from Santa Cruz, California.

Hull and Humber crossed the finish line, just off the Mexican coast, first, followed by the Chinese entry Qingdao.

The New York was third. According to skipper Hannah Jenner the Glasgow boat's chances of victory were scuppered by a lack of wind - but the setback hasn't dampened the enthusiasm of the committed crew.

Hannah said: "I think we had the longest match race of the whole Clipper Race so far.

"For over three days we were in sight of New York, both boats matching each other gybe for gybe.

"Sadly we were caught again by a lack of wind yesterday afternoon which left us wallowing around for four hours and stole our chance to win the race but spirits are still high."

The result of this leg leaves the Glasgow yacht in overall third place.

The next leg of the race sails from Panama to Jamaica later this month.

Argyll GP, Colin Boyd, 58, who is competing on Legs 5 and 6 of the race, said, "We have led for most of the race and are naturally disappointed at getting caught up in the light airs of the last 36 hours."

Race Director Joff Bailey said, "As much as this has been a thrilling race for us to watch unfold at home, with the variety of tactics being played out and the really close racing, this has been a difficult one for the crews taking part.

"There is great skill involved in keeping a yacht moving in the kind of light airs they've been experiencing.

"Hannah and her team have done very well."