An OCS (On the Course Side of the starting line) in the practice race of the Australian Etchells Championships was not the start John Bertrand, Ben Ainslie and Andrew Palfrey (pictured) would have wanted, especially for Ben’s first Etchells race.

However, the Olympic gold medallist was not fazed by the setback, looking very relaxed and clearly enjoying himself he commented, “John is just fantastic, and ‘Doggy’ is super. I’m the weakest link they carried me around the course!”

It was exciting conditions at the Championships, with winds increasing to over 22knts and many surfing for long periods on the downwind legs. 34 boats finished.

After one general recall in a one-way course the three boats that started at the pin lead throughout the day. John Bertrand – Triad, Skip Lissiman – Bandwagon and Rob Brown – Steampacket 7 started from the pin, headed to the left lay line and once tacked it, rounding the top mark in that order. Whilst racing was tight throughout the fleet, these three were the standout boats of the day.

Ben, who was clearly enjoying himself, added at the end of the day, “what great waters to sail in! Today we fell off the pressure a bit with Lissiman a bit higher, he took off in plenty of breeze.”

Racing starts in earnest today with winds expecting to moderate. For more information, visit www.09etchellsaustchamps.org.au .