Ed Baird (USA) and Claire Leroy (FRA) have won the 2007 ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year Awards at a gala event last night in Estoril, Portugal.

Leroy has had a remarkable 12 months on the women’s match racing circuit, winning the ISAF Nations Cup, European title and ISAF Women’s Match Racing World Championship. Throughout the 12-month period she has remained untouched as the Number 1 skipper on the Women’s ISAF World Match Race Rankings.

On receiving her award Leroy commented: “Sailing is a wonderful team sport. This year has been incredible – thank you so much for your support, it will contribute greatly to our time in the Olympics.”

Baird helmed the Swiss team Alinghi to a successful defence of the America’s Cup, coming back from 2-1 against Emirates Team New Zealand to win the 32nd Cup Match 5-2.

Baird took to the stage and in a voice that showed true emotion. He said, “This has been a massive effort by a big, big team. The America’s Cup is a dream for us all, but our sport is so much more than that. I would really like to acknowledge all of you who are here in support. Thank you.”

The Awards were presented by ISAF Presidents of Honour, His Majesty King Constantine and His Majesty King Harald V of Norway, and Arnaud Boetsch of Rolex.

Nominees for the 2007 ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year Awards

Female Sailor/Crew
Sarah AYTON, Sarah WEBB and Pippa WILSON (GBR)
Marcelien DE KONING and Lobke BERKHOUT (NED)
Claire LEROY (FRA)
Evi VAN ACKER (BEL)

Male Sailor/Crew
Ed BAIRD (USA)
Franck CAMMAS (FRA)
Vincenzo ONORATO (ITA)
Robert SCHEIDT and Bruno PRADA (BRA)
Rohan VEAL (AUS)