2016 Yanmar Moth World Championships – Day 2 + Video

by Tomoko Nishi on 25 May 2016 Yanmar Moth Worlds 2016 held from May 23rd to May 29th in Hayama, Japan had the second race today on May 25th.

Today's sailing conditions was strong southerly wind from the morning which is not ideal for non-experienced sailors to handle Moth. Therefore about 20 participants mainly who are not confident about sailing under this weather didn't join today's races. However, many of them rode on safety boats to support the competitions. They could have a close look at top sailors' racing and learn a lot.

Chris Rashley from UK, new generation of sailors got ahead of others and finished in the first place for today. Paul Goodison, 2008 Beijing Olympic gold medallist in the Laser Class, made stable racing and stays the second place. Then Australia's Scott Babbage finished the third after today's races.

Among Japanese participants, currently Kohei Kajimoto is leading in the seventh. Kajimoto reigning Japanese Champion keeps the momentum in the championships.

'I usually sail in high waves and strong winds for training. So I look forward to tomorrow races' confidently said Kajimoto.

Japan’s Hiroki Goto aiming to finish within top 10 in the championships is currently in the eleventh. Hayama is Goto’s hometown, so we could well see a fight back from him.

69 sailors from 10 countries are participating in the championships. 33 participants are from the host, Japan, 17 from Australia and 10 from Great Britain. Also three sailors are from the other side of Japan, Argentina.

The weather forecast for tomorrow is similar to today and it would advantage skilled sailors. Another three races are scheduled for tomorrow.