The Sail for Gold regatta marked the end of this season's series of International Olympic Classes Regattas now known as the World Cup.  Although the French Champion match racers Claire Leroy and team came second at Sail for Gold, they reclaimed their former title as winners of the World Cup. The Australian team headed by Nicky Souter won Sail for Gold - incidentally, they only got a last minute entry having been beated by their team mates in the earlier Grade 3 regatta!!

Having watched many matches from the excellent vantage point of the Nothe Gardens in Weymouth, I have been so impressed by the very high standard of boat handling by these girls.  The skills to be a top match racing team are legion, so much quick thinking, controlled aggression and plain skill is required to win what can be fascinating and closely fought duels.  There were no spectators to speak of watching and this is a great shame, let's hope that the interested public will get hold of match racing and come in future years to enjoy this display of sailing excellence.

The teams have all got a month off now to recharge their competitve batteries before the teams are selected to begin their winter training schedule.  They will however not be neglecting their fitness which cannot be allowed to slip.

Finishing tie last in the round robin, means that the team compete in the Bronze group for the last 6 places.  They made a solid start today with 2 wins against Kilbe form Croatia and Archer from Britain.  3 more races tomorrow. Perfect sailing condidtions today and the match racing provided fascinating viewing from the Nothe Gardens.