Today saw conditions that challenged all competitors in the waters of Waterloo Bay. With predicted light rain at times, tending to showers during the day and possible thunder, all athletes were challenged. Head coach Adrian Finglas had this to say to the team, “Two things that are key today, there is the pressure and your opposition, employ that tip today, and I hope everyone has a good day”. Between both the northern and southern courses Queensland as a team was extremely successful.
Charlie Wyhatt - 2nd overall in the Optimist
Mitch Kennedy - Laser Radial leader
Laser radial leader Mitch Kennedy from Queensland has led overall since day 1 and backed up another day, in tough conditions to continue his winning streak. Laser full rig leader from Queensland Ryan Palk, is holding off competitors Klade Hauschildt, and NSW Institute of Sport sailor James Burman for first position.
On the southern course Queenslanders are holding their dominant positions in all classes. In the 420’s, Gough and Galloway again fought it out in all races against girl pairing and training partners Elle Brake and Jamie Ryan, to be leading overall. In the 29er class Queensland pairing of Brake and Franklin again hold their lead, even after multiple position changes in the final race of the day.
The 11 strong fleet of Optimists are led by SYC and Queensland sailor Kyle O’ Connell,with Queensland Development Sailing Team member Charlie Wyatt in second after today’s racing.
The outlook for Thursday is again a few showers, mostly during the morning, with moderate E to NE winds. The Queensland Team is again set for success in the first leg of the SailDownUnder series, here in Brisbane for 2010.
Optimist start - day 3
Luke Baillie races upwind
Follow the event with daily video updates here : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XTeS5GeZYrs&feature=player_embedded
Andrew Gough
Media & Photography
Yachting Queensland