There were challenging conditions yet again on the final day of 2016 as sailors at the Peter Lehmann Wines Australian Laser Championships were greeted with light winds and big waves.
The competition is certainly starting to heat up while sailors begin to tire and their mental strength is becoming continually challenged.
With the top 5 in the Radial and Full Rig fleets well within reach of working into the top position, the 4.7s are a bit different with the leader having a 19-point lead, however there are only seven points between second to seventh, so the competition and heat is definitely turning up, with plenty of time for things to change.
There were several general recalls and some disqualifications on the final day of 2016 amongst the 4.7 and Radial fleets, with the tide playing a large part in the starts and many sailors being caught out while trying to be the first to get their lane and clear air.
Photos by Dave Birss, Epsom Rd Studios. Click HERE for more images.
The forecast for the rest of the regatta in 2017 is looking good so far, so hopefully this stays true and we receive some stronger winds and warmer temperatures to really see how hard these boats can be pushed and allow those who enjoy the stronger winds to show their abilities.
Our current leaders going into the lay day and the new year were:
- Full Rig – Matthew Wearn
- Radial – Rhett Gowans
- 4.7 – Jack Littlechild
Happy New Year everyone!
