A day for everyone

Laser Radial fleet approaches the top mark

Perfect conditions again today at New Plymouth for Day 3 of NZ Laser Nationals.  The sea breeze took some time to fill in today meaning that the first 2 races were sailed in 5 to 10 knots which allowed the lighter sailors a chance after the strong winds of yesterday.  The sea breeze had built again by the start of the third race so the sailors could enjoy some great downwind surfing.

John Davidson, Radial Master from Wellington, enjoying the lighter conditions

Andrew Murdoch was on fire today wining two of the races by substantial margins and coming 2nd in first race of the day in the lighter conditions.  James Sandall from Naiper won this race to record his second win of the series and Andrew Murdoch commented that James was a smart sailor who had sailed very well to stay ahead of him after James had got the first left shift to take the lead.  Michael Bullot had another good day with two 2nd's behind Andrew and a 6th in the first race which he is currently dropping.  Andrew now leads Michael by 5 points with 2 races remaining tomorrow.  3rd place is currently held by Yuval Botzser from Israel 34 points further back meaning that Andrew will be 1st and Michael will be 2nd unless some disaster occurs tomorrow.

The "On the water" Judging team who have been pleasantly suprisied by the lack of Penalties that they have had to award this week.

Sam Meech continues his domination of the Laser Radial fleet and should win the Overall and Youth Championships.  Sarah Winther continues to lead Jo Aleh in the Women's fleet and Rachel Basevi now has a good lead in the Women's Youth Championship and Jason Saunders leads the Radial Men.

Alex Dyet sailing the Laser 4.7 wrapped the Championship today with 2 races left to sail