Gosford Sailing Club’s 470 class skipper, Sophie McIntosh, and her crewmate, Orla Mulholland-Patterson, were delighted to finish fourth at the Open Women’s World 420 Championship in Perth.
The pair, aged 19 and 18, were just pipped at the post for a bronze medal by their Italian rivals by two points on the final day of the six-day, 10-race championship.
They revelled in the strong breeze the ‘Freemantle Doctor’ delivered almost every day and recorded a highly consistent performance against 39 of the world’s best sailors from 10 nations.
Two third placings were highlights, and they scored only two races below 10 on a penultimate day, in light, shifty conditions.
“Super stoked to come away with such a great result,” McIntosh posted on Facebook.
“A little disappointing to miss the podium by 2 points to the Italians coming down to the last race, yet despite a few setbacks throughout the week (including illness), we are pleased with the final result.
“A massive thanks to our coaches, Craig Ferris and Belinda Stowell, for their incredible support throughout the event.
“Another massive thanks to Gosford Sailing Club, and everyone for following my sailing adventures this year.
“Also thanks to the volunteers who worked day on end to put on a fantastic event,” she wrote.
McIntosh also congratulated Freemantle team, Nia Jerwood and Monique De Vries, for taking out the gold for Australia on their home waters.
Both teams will now continue in the 470 Olympic sailing class as they campaign as part of the Australian Sailing Squad.
Source:
Media release, Jan 8
Peter McIntosh, Gosford Sailing Club