The Morning Report

As we go into day 6 of the 2003 ISAF World Championship, the wind has dropped compared to yesterday, which will be a relief to many, but remains good at around 6-10 knots from the east this morning, veering to the south-east as it increases this afternoon

This morning sees the Europe fleet commence the final series, having been split into Gold and Silver groups (two groups of 58 boats apiece) after the 6 race qualification. With 11 Olympic qualification slots up for grabs, it´s going to be tough at the top. Going into the final rounds, it is Siren SUNDBY (NOR) who leads the fleet. Having spoken to Siren earlier in the week on her preferred conditions, she had commented she was a bit of an “allrounder”, preferring varying conditions throughout an event. So far the regatta is proving as such, which is clearly why she is at the top.

The Mistral men and women fleets enter their second day of qualification, with the Yngling fleet into the final day of what was a scheduled qualification.

Barbara KENDALL (NZL), overall leader, gives a wave as she leaves for the race course this morning © ISAF
However, with the Ynglings sailing as a single fleet, there will be no regrouping after the conclusion of today, and all boats will continue to the final rounds, all with a shot at the Championship title and Olympic qualification.

Christine BRIAND (FRA) (bow number 36) heads off to the race course ahead of overall leader Dorte JESEN (DEN)in the foreground © ISAF
With racing abandoned yesterday, the 83 boat Star fleet, representing 33 nations, will be keen to get started. All looks set for an interesting day.

Over in Rota, the 470´s are into day two of measurement, prior to their practice race tomorrow. Meanwhile the Laser fleet in Elcano are into day two of equipment allocation.

Quote / Unquote

Jerome PELS (NED), ISAF Technical Delegate,“It´s been a huge effort for the organizers to meet ISAF´s requirements for this event, but everything appears to be very well facilitated. One of the main reasons why ISAF selected Cadiz as the venue was for the wind conditions, which have proved superb so far. We have a long way to go yet, final measurement concludes on Wednesday and then we are immediately into the Europe finals the following day.”