Topper worlds in turmoil
by Mike Kneale 22 Jul 2009 08:08 BST
18-24 July 2009
Day 3 of the Topper Worlds at Ebensee, Austria saw all competitors up at 6am, the Race Officer setting flags to launch, but no competitors complying.
Day 1 had seen no racing, on Day 2 after a 6am start, four qualification races were run. After the split into Gold and Silver Fleets, protests were held in front of the three man ISAF jury and race 3 was thrown out due to the video evidence (from a coach boat) showing a large number of boats over the starting line. As a result those disadvantaged have asked for an extension of protest time and despite the race officer calling to launch, the international organising committee have advised sailors that the ISAF jury will convene at 8am this morning to consider the current situation.
It is understood that of the remaining three races, two were also held with questionable starts which were allowed to continue without any recall. Three races are the minimum allowed for the qualification series.
With little prospect of any sailing today, despite favourable conditions, the whole event has been thrown into turmoil, if the qualification series is not upheld then there is not sufficient time to hold the championship.
More information on the International Topper class website.