The southern harbor is renowned for its complex variations in wind direction. Today, it presented a new challenge to the athletes in the four sailing series. The southeasterly flow blew between 10 and 15 knots throughout the day. On some rounds, it diminished considerably in intensity, forcing the athletes to adapt constantly. This situation was both physically and mentally demanding for the French team athletes.
In 49er FX, the mama team drops back to 2 e overall position
First in the overall standings after two days of racing in calm conditions, Charline Picon and Sarah remained consistent on the third day, maintaining their position in the top 2 e in the provisional overall standings. Just 5 points behind the Dutch and 18 points ahead of the Swedish crew, who proved themselves to be imperious in these twisted conditions, stringing together three fine runs of 2, 1 and 5. Charline confirms that these conditions were not to their advantage:
"We're a bit light for these conditions. We can be up to 10 kilos lighter than some of the crews. But with better starts, we could have done between 6th and 8th. The satisfaction is that we've been consistent. Tomorrow's goal, for our final day of qualifying, is to stay in position. We are today. We want to be tomorrow and be in a position to play for the medal on Thursday."
In the 49er, the world champions gain a place
The competition in the 49er class is very keen. These conditions favored the Spanish crew, who put in a solid performance with places of 3, 2 and 2, enabling them to take the lead. The New Zealanders, who performed less well, dropped to third place, while the Irish continued to surprise with a place on the provisional podium.
The French stay at number 8 e place, but the standings are very tight as they are only a few points behind the third-placed team, but are still in with a chance of winning a medal. The 4th e he last day of qualifying will be decisive for both fleets, before they tackle the Medal Race.
In iQFoil, a fine comeback for Hélène Noesmoen
Five races were sailed in iQFoil, the maximum allowed for a day's racing. Hélène Noesmoen, 16 e showed her confidence and ease in a stronger wind. La Sablaise is now in 5th place e place in the overall standings.
Nicolas Goyard, first in the rankings, had a more complicated day, alternating between the good and the not-so-good. He is also in 5th place e place overall.
