28th SEA Games at Singapore - Day 7
by Icarus Sailing Media 13 Jun 2015 18:04 NZST
5-16 June 2015
The 28th South East Asian Games is drawing towards the finish here in Singapore, but there is still plenty of tension and anticipation as we close in on the final 3 days of racing at the National Sailing Center.
Today’s racing schedule was all about the two person dinghies - 420 and 49erFX - as well as the junior Optimist class – with the weather overhead cloudy and stormy. With it, came the breeze – and some fast paced competitive action as teams battle in a fight to the end.
The SEA Games are also a great “benchmarking” event, as just the top team from each nation competing, means athletes can compare their performance against each other. Whilst the focus is on success here in Singapore, athletes are also checking in on what they need to tailor their performance for their next event, such as the Worlds. Arriving to race in optimum shape is crucial.
The Malaysian athletes are currently leading in the boys youth division in the 420 class, so their preparation has paid off. 4 races today, with 2 more wins and 2 second places, gives Malaysia a useful points advantage over Thailand in 2nd place. Singapore is in 3rd. A reverse podium order in the girls 420 fleet, sees Singapore leading, Thailand in second and Malaysia in third.
In the 49erFX Women's fleet, the breeze guaranteed thrilling racing, with the boats literally flying above the water at high speed. This new Olympic class is the fastest competing at the 28th South East Asian Games, and probably the one offering the most dramatic racing. Singapore’s Griselda Khng and Sara Tan are invincible, with a clean scorecard of race wins. Behind, Malaysia’s Tan and Tsen are tied on equal points with Thailand’s Waiwai and Meeyousamsen. It is neck and neck for these two to the end.
Medal deciding day tomorrow for the 470 men and women, as well as the Optimist class. Just 4 medal races to decide the podiums. Join us tomorrow, watch the racing unfold and check in on those with the skill and nerve required to secure glory. The anticipation builds.
www.seagames2015.com/the-games/sports/sailing