Flawless Walker takes maximum points

British skipper Ian Walker who scored a maximum six points from the in-port race with French boat Groupama (Getty Images)

Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing eased the pressure on skipper Ian Walker after two miserable legs in the Volvo Ocean Race by scoring a crushing victory on home waters yesterday.

The British skipper steered faultlessly in light winds to take a maximum six points from the in-port race with French boat Groupama just under a minute behind and Camper (Spain/New Zealand) third.

The result leaves Abu Dhabi six points better off but still fifth overall on 25. Team Telefonica of Spain still lead on 68 points, but their advantage was cut to six by Camper, with Groupama on 47. The third leg of the race to Sanya, China, begins today.