Olympic Sailing - NOT

by Rob Kothe on 15 Aug 2008
400 sailors waiting on the water, but all classes postponed on Fushan Bay- Qingdao on Day 7 of the 2008 Beijing Olympic sailing regatta.

Current wind speed is 2.4 knots from the south east. Temperature 28 degrees.

Competitors in all classes went on the water today, only to have the AP over H flags of the International Code hoisted before racing started - meaning that racing was postponed and competitors should return to shore to await further instructions.

There was some time for those in the vicinity of Course A, to appraise the merits of the new Code Zero spinnaker used by John Lovell and Charlie Ogletree (USA).

Oinions were a little divided on its benefit, upwind some thought it had slightly more power, however conditions on Course were quite light with a sloppy left over sea.

Downwind, from a distance there didn't seem to be much disadvantage for the US crew, compared to others sailing the same course. Certainly they will be able to sail different angles and it is a moot point as to which is the better option.

Those who have been around for the '83 America's Cup will also be aware of the advantage that Australia II gained in light airs through a smaller spinnaker, due to it being easier to set.

Currently all racing is on hold, and it would seem that there is about two hours left to run before the pin is pulled on all racing for yet a second day.

Medal races in the Finn and Yngling classes are scheduled for tomorrow, Saturday.