PACIFIC GAMES: Australia’s Pacific Games sailing team are on course for medal finishes.

In the women’s Laser Radial Queenslander Carissa Bridge had a successful day five of the competition, finishing first and second in the two races.

The two excellent races set her up to move from third to second position, with only two days of racing to go.

Coach Brendan Todd said Friday’s races will be important for Bridge to cement a silver medal.

“She’s a couple of points ahead of third and she’s looking strong and powering along,” he said.

In the men’s Laser both Australian Mark Spearman and Thomas Vincent had a great day on the water at the Royal Papua Yacht Club.

“Mark’s two first finishes today have set him up well,” Todd said.

“He’s finished first every time, expect for once when he finished third, so it’s a pretty good scorecard.

“It was a good battle today with the wind unstable, but Mark made some good gains.”

Victoria’s Vincent is now well placed for a medal finish, currently in third position overall.

“Thomas is getting closer to second with only four races to go. He’s getting stronger day to day and he’s getting quicker down wind, it’s a big advantage for us,” Todd said.

Team Chef de Mission and dual Olympic gold medallist in sailing, Malcolm Page, said the conditions are perfect for the Australians.

“The sailors having a lot of fun in these tropical conditions, with good winds,” Page said.

“They’re showing the natural talent that comes from our country.”

The sailing wraps up on Saturday 11 July.

Annie Kearney
olympics.com.au