Australia's World Champion Europe dingy sailor off to a flying start in European Championships

by Simone Green on 8 Jul 2003 Perfect sailing conditions bought a perfect day of racing for current world champion Sarah Blanck (AIS/VIS). In a very hot (35 degree) 10-12 knot breeze, Blanck finished with two 1st's, on day one of racing at the 2003 Europe Class European Championships.

With the Championship being the second Olympic Nomination regatta for the Europe class, a great start in this very strong fleet, was essential. Blanck’s day one sailing puts her in the lead, ahead of 122 competitors.

'In race one I had an ok start but managed to get the first shift and pretty much lead from the first five minutes till the end', Blanck reports from Palma, Spain.

Caution was taken on race two, when it was deemed a black flag start, hence any competitor over the line is automatically disqualified.

'After being automatically disqualified in the last regatta I sailed in for an early start, I was pretty careful and got off to a safe start. I led from the first mark of this race and led the whole way round,' Blanck explained.

Australia dominated the first race with Blanck and Jo Dikkenberg (NSWIS) leading on the first lap going head to head. Dikkenberg finished the day with an impressive 4th and 11th.

Meanwhile, Riana Haldane (SA) tallied a 49th and 36th and Claire Hozack (NSW) finished with a 36th and 47th. Both found the start difficult and had trouble off the line, however picked up good speed and are sailing well.

'Claire was 13th at the top mark in the first race and sailed well to get there, but was unable to hang in there in the very strong fleet', coach Craig Ferris stated encouragingly.

Results after day one:

1. Sarah Blanck (AUS) 2pts

2. Sarah Macky (NZL) 3pts

3. Siren Sundby (NOR) 4pts

12. Jo Dikkenberg (AUS) 15pts

81. Claire Hozack (AUS) 83pts

87. Riana Haldane (AUS) 85pts

Visit the regatta website - http://nauticconsulting.com/club_resultados_CHAMPIONS.htm