As one offshore classic race draws to a close this week, another major race is drawing a near record fleet together closer to home, while at the same time, the Volvo Ocean Race will be decided this weekend in The Netherlands, writes David Branigan

Blind Irish adventurer Mark Pollock — who was left paralysed when he fell 25ft from a bedroom window while staying with friends in England — has won his battle for damages in the High Court in London.