Headwinds and foul tides on the Irish Sea yesterday performed their typical deciding role in the Round Ireland Race as the main fleet reached the Wicklow finishing line.

David Kenefick delivered on his goal of improving on his rookie year in the gruelling Solitaire du Figaro single-handed event yesterday when he crossed the finishing of the final stage of the event in 20th place.

The sound of grinding teeth could almost be heard along the west coast over the past 24 hours as the fleet in the Round Ireland Race battled light winds that has upturned the standings in the 704-mile event.

Navy commandos stormed a French sailboat held by pirates off the Somali coast in an assault triggered by threats the passengers would be executed.

Stunning actress Scarlett Johansson has jetted out to South Africa to check up on boyfriend Jared Leto.