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Ben’s Telegraph diary: local knowledge will count so learning about the conditions was key 16.08.11

Ben’s Telegraph diary: local knowledge will count so learning about the conditions was key

My aim was to try to sail a good race, not just to get the best possible result, but to learn as much as possible about the conditions because knowledge will clearly count for a lot next year.

Weymouth and Portland International Regatta 2011 Ben Ainslie

Ben Ainslie, Weymouth and Portland International Regatta, Skandia Team GBR image



 

It was tricky at times but I had a good start in the final Finn class race, was third at the top mark, then managed to overtake the leader, Dan Slater, on the run to the finish and win the race and the gold medal.

It was physically demanding so I was pretty tired by the end and spent the first few moments trying to catch my breath. We had press boats converging on us, then I had to sail past Nothe Gardens where all the spectators, including my family, were watching.

Weymouth and Portland International Regatta 2011 - podium

Gold medal winner Ben, Weymouth and Portland International Regatta 2011 Credit Skandia Team GBR image


 


My niece and nephew had never seen me race live before so that was pretty cool, though I’m not sure they were that impressed. They came to the medal ceremony afterwards which made it even more special.

So I have now ticked all the boxes as far as selection is concerned and I would hope that I have done enough so I can focus on my Olympic campaign and what needs to be done over the next 12 months to have the best preparation possible for the Games next summer.

Read more from Ben HERE

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One gold, two silver and a bronze for TVfl at the recent Weymouth and Portland International Sailing Regatta.

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