SAILING Ireland 8th at World Laser Radial Women's Championship in Japan
- Ireland 8th at World Laser Radial Women's Championship in Japan
- Ireland's Annalise Murphy sails into 8th at World Laser Radial Women's Championship in Japan
At the World Laser Radial Women's Championship in Japan, Ireland's Annalise Murphy placed 8th overall following a 4th and 14th in the final two races. The Championship was won by Finland's Sari Multala who counted 5 race wins in her scores, allowing her to sit out the final race. Also competing for Ireland were Tiffany Brien and Claudine Murphy (Annalise's sister). Brien placed 35th overall, her personal best, while Claudine Murphy was 14th in the Silver Fleet.
The 87 boats, from 30 nations, were split into Gold and Silver fleets following an initial qualification series of races. The Championship consisted of twelve races, which allowed competitors to discard their two worst results.
Following the event, ISA Performance Director James O'Callaghan commented: "This is a fantastic achievement; we always knew Annalise had the potential but she has even surprised by the speed in which she has delivered on it. Remember this is only her first year as a senior."
O'Callaghan continued: "Once again it is a clear demonstration of the ISA Performance Pathway programme working. It proves that the investment in athletes and coaching delivers results.
ISA Development Coach Ian Clingan was recently appointed to coach the Laser Radial Girls currently competing on the Olympic circuit.
Annalisa's result is Ireland's best in 5 years in Olympic class sailing. In 2003 David Burrows placed 3rd at the Finn World Championship. This is Annalise's first senior year of competition on the Olympic circuit.
Gold Fleet - 44 boats
- 1st FIN Sari Multala
- 8th IRL Murphy Annalise
- 35th IRL Tiffany Brien
Silver Fleet - 43 boats
- 1st AUS Ashley Stoddart
- 14th IRL Claudine Murphy