After a gale force start to their series, today's conclusion was a 'breeze' for the Formula Windsurfers Championship, Steve ALLEN (AUS) clean-sweeping to win the title 6-0 at the Sail Melbourne International Regatta.
Hosted by Elwood Sailing Club, the World champion was never threatened or tested, not even by his training partner and friend, 'The Viking', Jesper VESTESTROM (DEN).
Like his friend, 'The Viking' had no problems with the rest of the 22-strong fleet, placing second in every race.
Sean O'BRIEN (AUS), the near-newcomer to the Open fleet, and a former Youth Formula Windsurfing champion, took home third prize. From Queensland, O'Brien claimed third place in every race!
Elwood Sailing Club spokesman, Peter NAGORSKI, said winds were light for the windsurfers today.
"We ran three races before lunch and the most we got was 10 knots - not really enough for them. By late afternoon for our final race, it reached up to around 15 knots, better, but still not brilliant as far as boardsailing is concerned," he said.
Excluding Allen, the top five finishers from this event score an entry into the next World Championship at Oostende, Belgium in July. As defending champion, Allen gets a free card entry into the Worlds.
At times during the Championship, Allen slowed his board towards the finish line, just so other competitors could finish the race within their structured time limit, such is his talent.
For full results, photos and details go to the event website at the address below.