Day 2 of the Pre-worlds started well before the race time with a training briefing for the worlds first timers with coach Rus Clark who’s presence at the regatta has been sponsored by ACO.
Russ opened the briefing with his class and pretty soon about half the fleet had joined in sharing tips and hints with former World Champions Richard Stenhouse and Dan Henderson sharing their expertise with the fleet.
The training group then headed out with the fleet to participate in the 2 races scheduled for today.
The breeze was light at around 6 knots from the south west with warm temperatures in the early 20s.
Following 2 general recalls under U flag the fleet got away with the left paying up the first beat. Sergei Samus (GBR) more known for his high wind speed has found his way in the lighter conditions to lead at the first mark from Dan Henderson (GBR) and Mike Palfreman (GBR). Dan pulled through at the leeward mark however on the second upwind leg the leaders misread a course change allowing Andy Rice (GBR) through followed by Wayne Bates (AUS) and David Rickard (GBR). On the final downwind leg Wayne pulled through Andy to take the win for Australia; with Andy second and David third.
Race 4 started in a little more breeze and the fleet got away first time; this time the right paid and first to round was George Hand (GBR) leading the current world champion Bruce Keen (GBR). Bruce had the edge downwind and pulled through to take the win followed by Ian Trotter (GBR) and George Hand (GBR).
With no discard consistency was key and George Hand (GBR) took the win from Andi Lachenschmid (GER) with Alex Knight (GBR) third.
The top 20 was packed with talent; GBR held the best representation but there were 5 nations represented.
The race office, Jerome Nutte, did a good job at getting the race target times very close to 45 minute and achieving a quick turn around.
All boats are now measured thanks to the hard work of Class International Measurer Chris Henderson.
The fleet are now gathering for an evening of Pancakes and beers with a day off tomorrow,
Racing starts Tuesday for the Worlds.
Final Results – Pre-Words 2016:
1s place – George Hand (GBR)
2nd place – Andi Lachenschmid (GER)
3rd place – Alex Knight (GBR)
