Tuke and Burling go further ahead

Tuke and Burling go further ahead

Only the 49ers got out on the Olympic sailing course today. Initially there was precious little wind, then later in the afternoon a storm blew up.

However, both the men’s and women’s 49ers got through three races and there was good news for New Zealand all around.

The 49er men, Blair Tuke and Peter Burling, had finishes of 2, 3, 1 – a mighty impressive effort. It means that with four races remaining they are in a commanding lead. They have 21 points, well clear of second-placed Germany on 39.

Alex Maloney and Molly Meech improved their position among the women’s 49ers.

They had finishes of 6, 12 and 3 and are now second on 34 points. They are only four points behind Spain and one ahead of Brazil, so it is a tight contest. There are four races remaining.

New Zealand laser sailor Sam Meech didn’t get on the water for his medal race today – it was postponed until tomorrow.