Dennis Conner's amazing career took another stunning turn yesterday after the Toshiba skipper guided the yacht into the lead of the fourth leg of the Whitbread Round the World Race.

The four-times America's Cup winner only took over at the helm at the end of the third leg, and was recalled for jumping the gun at the start of the fourth on Sunday. Despite trailing the fleet, Toshiba has moved up through the pack and now has a 3.7-mile lead over second place Swedish Match.

"I just could not wait for the chance to put Toshiba across the starting line first," said Conner. "I got my wish as we crossed a half boat length ahead only to hear the gun meaning we started prematurely and had to return to the line, dropping from first to last. Talk about dreams turning to ashes. Fortunately two hours later we were back in the thick of the battle, otherwise I am sure my name would be mud with the crew."

British yacht Silk Cut, an early leader, has slipped back to fifth place. The leading boats are expected to complete the 1,270-mile leg on Friday morning.