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8 July 2005, 11:40 am

Great Britain And Australia Lead

29er World Championship 2005

San Francisco, California, USA

The sixth Annual 29er World Championship has brought some of the world's top skiff sailors to the St. Francis Yacht Club and San Francisco Bay, California, USA. After six of ten qualifying races, Great Britain and Australia dominate the top ten performers, led by Dylan FLETCHER and Nick HOLLIS (GBR).

Cameron BIEHL and Zack MAXAM (USA) hold fifth place, leading a strong field of American sailors including local stars John HEINEKEN and Matt NOBLE (USA) who are right behind in sixth.

'As expected, San Francisco Bay has provided an ideal setting for the 29er World Championships,' stated St. Francis Yacht Club Commodore Doug HOLM. 'During the qualifying rounds, the fleet has enjoyed a wide range of weather, challenging competitors to showcase a broad range of sailing skills. While Monday's competition rewarded those able to navigate heavy weather while remaining upright, Tuesday provided a showcase for superior strategy and consistent boat handling,' he continued.

Teams comprising around 150 sailors are involved in the week long competition that began with a presentation of flags and anthems during opening ceremonies held on Sunday 3 July. The regatta, which continues through to Sunday 10 July, consists of a qualifying series followed by the finals. Upon completion of the qualifying series, the fleet will be divided into Gold, Silver and Bronze fleets with the top 25 boats competing in the Gold Class.

Wednesday was a rest day with action heating up again yesterday and continuing through the weekend with lots of racing and viewing. Racing begins daily at 1000 hours local time, with great viewing possible from Marina Green and Crissy Field.