Optimist Asian and Oceanic Championship – Day 4 + Video

by Icarus Sailing Media on 30 Oct 2015 Welcome to the penultimate fourth day of the IODA Optimist Asian and Oceanian Championship 2015 in Qatar. Here on Katara beach, suspense was in the air, with sailors eager to return to the race track, after yesterday’s day off. Climbing the leader-board, whilst protecting their positions, was the focus for sailors – as they strived to consolidate their performance.

The morning briefing informed sailors about the new race course area adjacent to El Corniche – the magnificent waterfront promenade that extends along Doha Bay, set against the majestic modern architecture of the city. Two races for both fleets guaranteed another tough program of racing, with the gold / silver fleet splits to be decided by the end of the day. The easterly breeze, of 12-15 miles, kicked in from early morning. Boat speed would be crucial and a key factor for success. But, it is not all about winning each race – although it helps. Consistency and holding a steady scorecard is the key to winning Championships.

The skyscrapers of Doha city center set a breathtaking backdrop to the excitement of the first race of the day. Singaporean sailors dominated in both fleets, but it was no easy win, with position changes throughout the races. Claiming a clear start, finding a clean lane and taking an early advantage to the first mark is critical – if sailors want to remain in the front of the pack for the unfolding race. The first upwind leg is the most important. In both fleets and both races, sailors from China, Oman, Singapore, Thailand, Turkey and the USA proved dominant and claimed the top five finishes. The top two Singaporean sailors, who are racing in separate fleets, matched each other’s scorecards, claiming a 2,1 each, but it is Muhammad Daniel KeI Bin M Yazid who holds the overall lead and points advantage. But there is still potential for all to change in Friday’s final two races.

Qatar’s young Optimist sailors proved their quality today, thriving in the windier breeze, with series best performances knocked out by quite a few of the 14 member team competing.

Tomorrow is the final day of the Championship, and the weather forecast is for slightly less breeze - so race strategy and tactics might decide the winner.

Watch the video