The 2019 Laser European Championships got underway in Porto overnight (Australian time), offering difficult conditions with light winds and a big swell.
Luke Elliott was the best of the Australians in the Standard class, recording a race win and a 10th to sit in seventh place, behind leaders Philipp Buhl (GER) and Joaquin Blanco (ESP). Australia has dominated the class in lead up events but Matt Wearn could only manger 10th overall (4,7) while Olympic Champion Tom Burton is 15th (9,5). There is a tight bunch of Australians in the teens, with Finn Alexander (4,10) 14th and Mitch Kennedy (5,9) 16th.
The Laser Radial is being led by Nur Shazrin Mohammed Latif (MAS) and Anne-Marie Rindom (DEN).Elyse Ainsworth is the best-placed Australian in 27th after a consistent day, scoring 14th and 15th places. Mara Stransky was less consistent, backing p a disappointing 28th with a third place in the second race.
A full report, including quotes from the sailors, will be published later in the morning.
Laser (162 boats)
1st=: Philipp Buhl (GER) 1 4 – 5 points
1st=: Joaquin Blanco (ESP) 1 4 – 5 pts
3rd: Niels Broekhuizen (NED) 3 2 – 5 pts
Laser Radial (120 boats)
1st: Nur Shazrin Mohamad Latif (MAS) 1 1 – 2 pts
2nd: Anne-Marie Rindom (DEN) 2 3 – 5 pts
3rd: Martina Reino (ESP) 4 2 – 6 pts
