Light winds in first days of World Sailing Champs

Mat Belcher and Will Ryan found themselves in the protest room for the 470 class.
Despite lighter than preferred conditions in Spain this week for the first days racing of the Sailing Worlds, Aussies are currently in the lead with two first places in the Laser, and Finn classes.

In the Lasers, Tom Burton showed why he’s been the event favourite in the leadup to the worlds, currently in first place after six races. After sitting on the water for more than five hours to complete three races, Burton said it was quite a ‘Tricky day’.

In the Finn clas, Victorian Olicer Tweeddell won the only race of the day, also struggling in the light winds which cancelled other classes altogether. While the 49’ers and other classes sat on the beach in comfort, the Finns wallowed around a course, playing the tactical game and looking for each and every gust.

Mat Belcher and Will Ryan found themselves in the protest room for the 470 class, unfortunately putting an end to their regatta after being disqualified during racing. “It has been pretty hard, really shifty and really variable,” said Belcher, who is currently protesting the committee for the disqualification.

Forecasts are saying conditions might improve towards the end of the regatta, which is great news for the Aussie sailors who prefer a bit of wind.

Check out the video from Day Three to see what we’re talking about, it sure is light!