New Zealand’s three crews saved their best for last, producing their strongest performances of the regatta on the final day of the 420 World Championships in Biscarrosse, France.
After six days of challenging conditions, the Kiwi teams ended the event on a high, with both New Zealand women’s crews recording their best individual race finishes of the championship.
Zofia Wells and Charlotte Handley led the way, closing out their campaign with a sixth-place finish to secure 26th overall in the 49-boat women’s fleet.
Amber Hughes and Phoebe Willis also enjoyed their best result of the regatta, crossing the line 13th in the opening race of the day before finishing 36th overall.
Amber Hughes and Phoebe Willis finished the regatta in 36th overall, 10 places behind teammates Charlotte Handley (top) and Zofia Wells. Photos / Looma Pictures
In the mixed/men’s fleet, Ashton Cooke and Charlie Bridger wrapped up their first world championship campaign together in 119th overall.
The final day featured two races on Lake Biscarrosse, bringing the championship to a close after a week that tested sailors with light, shifting winds and a weather-enforced lay day.
Greece emerged as the dominant nation of the regatta, claiming world titles in the men’s, mixed and under-17 divisions, while Brazil secured the women’s world championship after a dramatic finale that was only confirmed following an International Jury decision ashore.
The Greek team also retained the Francis Mouvet Trophy as the championship’s top-performing nation after collecting 10 medals across the event.
The international 420 season now shifts to Lithuania, where many of the world’s leading youth sailors will contest the 420 and 470 Junior European Championships later this month.
Final results and standings here.
Originally published by Yachting New Zealand.
