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This morning is the scheduled start day for the Mistral men and women, and the Star class, as well as the second day of racing for the Ynglings. At this point in time the easterly is strong, about 30 knots and I can imagine that the Europe sailors, who have a lay-day today, are thankful not to be sailing in these tough conditions.

The forecast for today, and indeed the next few days, is for the easterly gradient wind to continue at about 22-30 knots, with even bigger gusts in the Bay of Cadiz, we must wait and see what happens racing wise today as in the Straits of Gibraltar they are getting about 35 knots, with gusts above 40.

From today onwards, ISAF will be bringing you web streaming of all of the day's racing action, using Real media you will be able to watch all the action, competition, interviews and more, over the internet from here at the ISAF World Championship. More details will be made available later today.

As well as the scheduled racing, measurement starts today for the Tornado 49er and Finn classes in Puerto Sherry, and for the 470 classes in Rota. In Cadiz, the site for the Laser fleet, equipment allocation starts at midday today.

Quote / Unquote

Goran PETERSSON, the ISAF Technical Delegate for the 2004 Olympic Regatta, was in Puerto Sherry for the opening two days, and commented on the Championship, "This venue is as big as Athens. I am impressed by what I have seen and the infrastructure put in place for this number of sailors. The Championship is the biggest of its kind yet held and it is a considerable undertaking. Commercially the Championship has been handled very well and this is important for ISAF, the sport, the competitors and Spain."


Goran PETERSSON (SWE) © ISAF


Magnus LILLJEDAHL (USA), crew on the Star with Mark REYNOLDS world ranked number 5, who start their first qualification rounds today, "This event is awesome. I love the whole Olympic movement. It fosters an overall good experience." On his plans after this Olympiad, "I am good for another year [referring to lower back issues], and then perhaps I will be looking from the sidelines."

Signe LIVJBERG (DEN), world ranked number 5, competing in the Europe fleet and placed 14 overall after the conclusion of the qualification series yesterday. "Denmark is not yet qualified for Athens, so I am going for qualification. This regatta is the first selection events for the Danish team, and so far the conditions have been very testing. I have been ill the last few days, and feel tired and stuffy, so hope will be back on form soon.'


Signe LIVBJERG (DEN) © ISAF