International Canoe Europa Cup at Plas Heli, Pwllheli - Days 3 & 4

International Canoe Europa Cup at Plas Heli © Chris Hampe

The liquid Welsh sunshine was in full flow as competitors awoke for the third day of competition. But at the top of the leader board the completion was as close as ever. With a slight change to the program race 6 was the first race sailed with race 5 being the rescheduled long distance race held shortly afterwards.

Race 6 got underway in 14 knots of wind that freshened throughout the race to make each lap slightly more challenging than the one before. The reaches provided a chance to provide surfing lessons with seats needing to be moved fore and aft in order to maintain trim and avoid any visits to some of the famous local mines. Robin Wood sailed clear ahead of the fleet, But was eventually chased down by Alistair Warren who was unable to pass before the finish.

With time travel now in full flow race 5 started shortly after the last boat had finished race 6 and the wind had decided to give everyone a little respite with helms now perched around half way along their sliding seats. Alistair Warren hit out hard left whilst Robin Wood had a shocking start to be held up in the pack. This allowed Warren to extend a very large lead and on this longer course he was able to lap a good percentage of the fleet. Robin Wood managed to catch the back of the pack but could only fight through to 5th place. Gareth Caldwell took a comfortable 2nd place ahead of Colin Brown.

Day 4 came and the weather was particularly Welsh and with strong winds forecast the race officer gave everybody a day of rest. Overall Alistair Warren's consistent top three places gives him a two point lead heading into the final day. Tied in second just two points adrift are Gareth Caldwell and Robin Wood. With the weather looking to clear on Sunday there will be a final showdown to decide the podium positions.

Results after Day 4: