Shimeld wins 2.4mR Regatta – Thompson looks good for Paralympics

by Di Pearson on 18 Jan 2004 Stuart Shimeld (NSW) did not finish the final race in the 2.4mR class at Sail Melbourne today, but it did not stop him from winning the series, which he did with eight points.

Hot on his heels in second was the man who will probably represent at the Paralympics later this year, Peter Thompson, who finished with 10 points, only two behind the winner, after a win in the final race today.

Sailed in increasingly big winds on a large swell, Thompson surfed home just in front of his main rival for the Olympic spot, Michael McLean, who finished with 20 points.

McLean said afterwards, ‘I’m glad we finished when we did, I thought my boat was going to fill with water, she kept nose diving a bit, but going downwind today was wonderful – it felt so fast.’

Kim Williams finished fourth on a count back with Kathy McLean relegated to fifth. McLean is the wife of Michael, the two enjoying sailing together at this regatta.

For full information, results and photos go to: www.sailmelbourne.com.au