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Darren Bundock and John Forbes were chosen above a world-class field, that included Australian world champion track cycling and rowing teams, to win the prestigious award presented at the annual AIS Athlete and Coach Awards by Federal Minister for the Arts and Sport, Senator Rod Kemp.

AIS Director Michael Scott paid tribute to the AIS Sailing program and in particular to Olympians and multiple world champions Bundock and Forbes.

"Darren and John's world title last year was their second in succession and their third world title overall", Scott said. "That really is some achievement and testimony to the strength of the AIS's world class sailing program established under head coach Victor Kovalenko."

Kovalenko said Bundock and Forbes' results were significant and a real boost for the sport in this country.

"Darren and John have been the outstanding sailing team internationally in the very competitive Tornado class for the last three years and have helped to increase the profile of sailing in Australia," Kovalenko said.

"'Their skills as individuals are remarkable but it's their ability to work together to succeed as a team that sets them apart. Credit too should go to their coach Mike Fletcher who has worked with them for the last eight years," Kovalenko said.

Bundock and Forbes are currently ranked 2nd on the ISAF World Sailing Rankings.