Wearn Takes Out European Laser Crown
WA sailor Matt Wearn has secured his second major title for 2018 after claiming gold at the European Laser Championships in France.
Heading into the medal round, Wearn had placed himself in strong contention for overall victory following a successful week of fleet racing that had included five bullets (race wins).
It was still all to race for however, with New Zealand’s Olympic medallist Sam Meech and Cypriot World Champion Pavlos Kontides both right on his hammer and capable of snatching gold in the medal round.
Having won the Trofea Princesa Sofia regatta in Palma last month, Wearn proved it was no fluke, earning another race victory in the final competition of the regatta – which included double points – to secure a morale boosting win ahead of this year’s World Championships due in July.
Wearn said the World Championships are firmly in his thoughts after a second title to finish his first international tour for the year.
“It feels great to get another win under my belt this year, especially at such a big event,” he said.
“I still feel there is plenty of work to be done before the worlds, but for now it’s time for a little rest before getting back into it at home. Thank you to everyone for the support throughout the event.”
Fellow West Australian sailor Luke Elliott had a mixed week, with early form and a top 10 position escaping him through the finals, eventually finishing in 17th place overall.