Robert Dickson and Sean Waddilove from Ireland experienced a somewhat mixed result at the 49er World Championship in Lanzarote, ending on a high note despite enduring five challenging days. They put up an impressive fight in the event’s final fleet race, signifying their potential in this tough sailing competition.
Embarking on the race, the Dublin duo dominated the 25-boat Gold fleet up the course from Lanzarote’s Playa Blanca coast, seizing the lead until a slight error in sail hoisting allowed France’s Erwan Fischer and Clément Pequin to surf past them.
The competition escalated during the downwind leg, as the Irish crew, only a small distance behind, reclaimed their lead when the French boat allowed for a wide turn. Over the next two sections, Dickson and Waddilove showcased the exemplary performance they usually exhibit. Their subsequent second place is a typical accomplishment in recent major championships.
Despite their admirable performance, the Irish duo managed to stick to their 25th overall position. Their result, combined with compatriots Séafra Guilfoyle and Johhny Durcan, who came in 31st, positions them evenly for the upcoming Irish selection trials.
In regard to the championship, victory was celebrated by Fischer and Pequin. Their triumph coincides ideally with France hosting the Olympics, marking them as crowd favourites in their home nation.
Looking ahead, focus shifts to Hyeres, France, next month, where both Irish teams will participate in the grand French Olympic Week, hosting a 1,000-boat competition. Following the 49er Europeans in May, one of the two Irish crews will join the ranks of Eve McMahon and Finn Lynch on Team Ireland for the men’s skiff event.
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