The fifth and final day of slalom competition started off in a very similar fashion to day four, with the breeze teasing the competitors throughout the morning resulting in racing being on hold for much of the day.
As temperatures soared to new levels so did the tension between the competitors. And, as the day progressed it became apparent that only one race would be completed, leaving the 2009 world champion, Antoine Albeau fighting for the crown with the 2009 world rankings runner up, Finian Maynard (RRD, Gaastra).
By mid afternoon the wind began to build, and race director, Juan Antonio Aragon made the call to start race ten. All eyes were on Albeau and Maynard to see if they'd progress through their early heats. And, as expected, there was never a moment when either looked likely to fail, with both sailors going through to the finals with ease.
At this point, Maynard had to pull something special out of the bag. He somehow had to win the final race and ensure Albeau was almost last – a tough maneuver to pull off in anyone's book! Maynard pushed hard right at the start, but milliseconds later the horn went again, signaling a recall for the final eight. Unfortunately for Maynard he'd put himself out of the race, and inadvertently handed the crown to Albeau on a plate.
Final Results After Ten Races
1st Antoine Albeau
2nd Finian Maynard (RRD, Gaastra)
3rd Bjorn Dunkerbeck
Overall Rankings After Three Events
1st Antoine Albeau
2nd Bjorn Dunkerbeck
3rd Micah Buzianis
4th Finian Maynard (RRD, Gaastra)
5th Cyril Moussilmani
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