Day 2 Semi-finals racing – Racing for day 2 of the semi-finals got underway at 11:00 AM in the offshore breeze. The first session sailors did two back to back races. The first race of the day was sailed in 12 knots with flatter conditions but by the second race the wind began to moderate and this race was sailed in 7 knots of occilating breeze. Staying in phase with the shifts was the priority.
Following race two, session one sailors were sent in for the boat exchange with the session two teams. By this time, the wind had died and the session two teams were held on shore under postponement. The thermal eventually came and session two got underway later in the afternoon in an onshore southeasterly breeze of 11-13 knots. Two more races were completed in the session giving everyone a total of three. On the water the fleet was quite compacked, keeping your lanes clear and managing your crossings were a priority.
At the end of the second day, the Australians have solid control of the first three places. Darren SMITH/Claire BISGOOD (AUS) are tied with Cam OWEN/Susan Ghent (AUS) for the lead followed by Gavin COLBY/Josephine MARK (AUS). The top Australian teams have been very active training through the winter and their dedication is showing.
The reigning world champions Yamil SABA FUENTES/Gonzolo CENDRA FALCON (VEN) had a tough start in the qualifying rounds but have now found their pace and are chasing the leaders in fourth.
The Semi-finals continue through September 27 when there will be a cut. Following the cut, only the top forty-eight teams will advance to the finals.
Media contact: Rich McVeigh301-526-6046, mcveigh.rich@gmail.com
Photo credits: Hobie Cat Worlds Media team.
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