The 2010 PWA Sotavento, Fuerteventura Grand Slam – Day Four

Maynard claims line honours in an outstanding showdown of the world's
fastest, minus Albeau who fails to make the finals…

The spectators lining Sotavento's beautiful beach were awarded with some world-class racing on day four of the competition following a grueling five hours on standby for the sailors.

With all of the signs present that the usually consistent trade winds would kick in, the competitors were at the event site early, preparing their gear for battle. However, a competing breeze put the competition on hold for much of the day, allowing the fans to mingle with the PWA's stars until the wind began to build late in the afternoon.

With 14 to 20 knots out to sea at 15:30 race director, Juan Antonio Aragon made the decision to run one full round of frantic slalom. The down wind course was set close to the shore with four gybes to the finish, creating a spectacular site for the crowds lining the beach.

Finian On Form

Throughout the week former speed world title holder, Finian Maynard (RRD, Gaastra) has been one of the most consistent sailors, only falling out of the top 4 in one race. However, he hadn't quite tasted victory until today.

You could tell Maynard was gunning for glory from the word go with plenty of speed straight out of the blocks. He won every heat by a considerable margin, so when it came to the finals he was more than comfortable at the front of the fleet.

Flying down the first reach at full tilt, it was a three horse race right from the start with Maynard, Micah Buzianis, and Bjorn Dunkerbeck all heading straight for the mark. Maynard gybed just ahead
of Buzianis, with Dunkerbeck right on the American's tail.

It wasn't long before Dunkerbeck stepped on the gas and edged out in front of Buzianis, leaving just one sailor between himself and the finish. However, Maynard was in control of the race leaving Dunkerbeck fighting behind. It wasn't until the last leg that the Terminator went for the gap, hammering off down wind. His efforts were all far too late though, as Maynard powered off into the distance to claim his first well-deserved win of the season.

Results After Nine Races

1st Antoine Albeau 12.5pts

2nd Finian Maynard (RRD, Gaastra) 17.7pts

3rd Bjorn Dunkerbeck 25.7pts