Laser Masters Worlds at Fortaleza, Brazil - Day 7
by Jeff Martin 9 Oct 2005 11:10 BST
Great racing on the final day
Although several of the age groups had already been won and the race leaders took a welcome rest after a tough week of racing there was still plenty of competition for the runner places at the Laser World Masters Championship in Fortaleza, Brasil.
The glory of a race win or just beating the sailor who had been in front of
you for most of the races was enough to keep everyone going for the final
two races sailed in 20 to 22 knots easing to 15 knots for the final race.
Yet again the largest fleet, the standard rig masters, provided the best
racing. Senior worlds competitor Brendan Casey said,"It was a great race to
watch. Kurt Miller USA and Gonzalo Compero ARG started the last race on
equal points. Miller was ahead at the first mark with Campero oscillating
between 2nd and fourth. On the second upwind they had a great tacking duel
with Miller extending his lead. He went low on the last leg and 3 boats
passed including Campero who rounded the downwind mark in third with Miller
right behind. Maybe the pressure got to Campero because in his efforts to
get clear of Miller he picked up his second yellow flag penalty of the
week." Millar explained his slow speed downwind "I'm great at catching up
but not so good when I'm in front. It was a very exciting race for third
overall but I nearly blew it."
Kerry Waraker AUS wrapped the Great Grand Masters division (over 65 years)
with another second behind series runner up Peter Seidenberg USA.
In the the remaining category still to be decided Mark Orams NZL reversed
the positions of the 2002 championship when he led Steve Cockerill GBR from
start to finish. Orams said "Yesterday was a tough day but it was worth it
to get a small margin on Steve. Today was completely different - it is a
lot easier making the right decisions when there is no pressure!"
In spite of the tropical air and sea temperatures this has been one of the
toughest Masters Championship ever held with no races under 15 knots and
always big waves demanding total concentration. The 3 massage tables have
been in constant use and even the well prepared are now looking forward to
a rest. However everyone is already talking about the next championship to
be held in Jeju, Korea.
Full results and photos at www.2005laserworlds.com.br/results.html