Our look at Olympic Sailing continues with a look at top contenders. This week we’ll analyze 6 of the 11 classes and also look at strong countries and the USA’s standing. This weeks classes are: 470 men and women, 49er, Finn, Europe and Laser.

Australia and Great Britain both have two top ranking in this seletion. Australia has the top 470 mens team and top Laser sailor. Great Britain tops the Finn and 49er lists.

France is strong in the 470’s with the top ranked women’s team and 2nd ranke men’s team.

Norway also shows twice with the regining ISAF women’s sailor of the year tops in Europe dinghies and the 3rd ranked 49er team.

In these classes the USA’s best ranked team is in the 49er class. The Wadlow and Spaulding team is currently leading the USA’s 49er trials. Another trials leader, Meg Galliard, is ranked 12th. Of this week’s classes the US ranks lowest in the Finn 28th. The US trials for the Finn class are underway as is the Finn Gold Cup in Brazil.

As was the case in 2000, Great Britain has a strong group of sailors. Other European nations such as France and Norway appear to have good medal chances too. And the US once again seems to be lagging a bit at least as far as the rankings go. At this point the US would seem to have its best chances in the 470 mens and 49er classes.

Share or bookmark this story: