28th SEA Games at Singapore - Day 4
by Icarus Sailing Media 10 Jun 2015 23:36 AEST
5-16 June 2015
Welcome back to day 4 of the 28th South East Asian Games. The grey start of "typical" morning rain did not dampen spirits though, as sailors will happily face whatever the weather throws at them. A buzz of positive energy could be felt throughout the boat park, as sailors geared up ready for racing.
Smiles from the sailors in the 470 Class as their events got under way in a moderate breeze. The 470 is the Olympic 2-person dinghy. It requires physical agility in light air, and strength as the wind increases. Perfect teamwork in tuning, tactics, strategy, technique and boat handling deliver optimum speed.
Mastering speed was the focus for the windsurfers today. Competition in the RS:X Men & Women divisions has gone to the wire, with just the medal race to decide who will take their place on the podium. The men's crown looks assured to Thailand; the women's is still open.
The Medal Race is the final race of the series. Double points scoring intensifies the challenge, and keeps the door open for podium contenders. Managing the medal race pressure is a skill in itself. Racing is close to shore, so spectators can cheer their favourites.
In the Laser Radial Under 19 Male division, Singapore's Bernie Chin underlined his superiority by winning the medal race to seal the prestigious crown and gold medal. Thailand's Apiwat Sringam took silver, Indonesia's Achmad Zainudin bronze.
Singapore celebrated another gold medal in the Laser Standard, with an incredible passage of play from Colin Cheng. Cheng's powerful performance earned him an unassailable points advantage and guaranteed his overall victory before the Medal Race. A 2nd place finish couldn't upgrade the bronze medal for Thailand's Keerabi Bualong. Malaysia's Khairulnizam Afendy was delighted to secure silver!
Back to back race wins in the Fleet Racing Keelboat Women event gave Singapore another victory. Malaysia hounded the home nation around the track – and were happy to take home silver.
Medals were presented to the top 3 finishers, accompanied by excited celebrations from teams and fans. A proud moment to represent your nation and be rewarded with a medal, alongside your friends and sporting rivals. Join us for more action tomorrow.
www.seagames2015.com/the-games/sports/sailing