Dart 18 World Championship at Royal Varuna Yacht Club - Day 4

Sun again and a postponed start as the wind took more time to pick up today. The competition recommenced after a lay-day and a very good party until the early hours of this morning. I am not sure all the sailors felt they were in paradise this morning as they nursed their sore heads. The sailing however continued apace.

51 Dart 18s on the start line today. Races 7 and 8 of the series with up to 10 knots of wind in the first race and 13 knots in the second. Despite the lighter winds today, there was a little more gear damage and one dislocated shoulder which was put back on the water but necessitated retirement.

Dart 18 Worlds at Royal Varuna YC day 4 - photo © Sarka Ngassa

Dave and Louise Roberts excelled with two firsts pushing Gareth Owen and Hebe Hemming into second place. Both are on a nett of 18 points so tomorrow will be the big showdown! Rising to third overall was Herve Le Maux with crew Nicola Davies. "It was a difficult day" said Nicola despite an improvement in overall position. The third, fourth, (Daniel Norman and Alyesha Monkman), and fifth (David Lloyd and Heyley Smith) places have three points between them so all are vying for a podium place.

With slightly stronger winds forecast tomorrow, the championship is on a knife edge; just as all really excellent chapionships should be.

Down the pack Thai Hobie champion, Damrongsak and crew Kitsada improved their position to 9th overall.

Dart 18 Worlds at Royal Varuna YC day 4 - photo © Sarka Ngassa

With the support of the Yacht Racing Association of Thailand, special thanks to all the sponsors of what is turning out to be a near perfect sailing event: The Ministry of Tourism and Sport, Pattaya City Government, Bangkok Hospital, France Catamaran, Big Chilli, Fiona and Larry, Ocean Marina, Pattaya Mail, Rooster and ThaiBev.

Results after Day 4: