Australia's Team Edake into the Semis of Korean Match Race Qualifier

3:41 AM Sat 16 May 2009 GMT

'Team Edake into the semis of the Korean Match Race Qualifier' David Chapman Click Here to view large photo

The last two flights of the Korean Match Race Qualifier were held today in light and variable conditions.

The US team (Sally Barkow) came out fighting and won her two matches. The Japanese (Kan Yamada) won their only match of the day which put them into clear third spot and into the semis.

The Australian team (David Chapman - Team Edake) sat on the large watching pier as the race between the two Korean teams unfolded. The top Korean team held the lead to the last mark but then the mishap of a twist in the spinnaker allowed the other Korean team to pass them and go on to win the match.

This meant that Australian team was equal on points with the all girl US team. Luckily for them they had beaten the US team in their match against each other and as such, have made it through to the semis.

The last major match was between the two Kiwi teams of Laurie Jury and Reuben Corbett. The start was won by Laurie and he led to the finish.

The Umpires, led by Craig Mitchell, had a number of decisions to call in the matches today and from all accounts they did a good job.

Tomorrow will be the semis and finals.

Laurie Jury has chosen to sail against David Chapman (Team Edake) while Reuben Corbett will sail off against Kan Yamada.

by Jeff Carter