Smith and Ryan Begin Rio Odyssey

Sailing: Women’s 470
Athlete: Carrie Smith

Venue: Marina Da Gloria

WA sailor Carrie Smith and her crew Jaime Ryan hold 12th position overall after the opening day of competition in the women’s 470.

Contested on the bay of the Marina Da Gloria, Smith and Ryan shot out to a strong start in the day’s first of two races, to sit in eighth position rounding the first two of seven marks to the finish line.

The duo fluctuated between 10th and 11th over the next four marks, before losing ground towards the end of the race, eventually crossing the line in 17th position in a time of 52:38mins.

The race was won by Japan, ahead of boats from Slovenia and Austria.

The girls executed a more consistent sail in the second race of the day, to finish eighth in a time of 53:31.

They were again quick off the line, occupying fifth place over the first two marks, before eventually sailing to an eighth place effort, which combined with their opening effort, sees them ranked 12th overall.

New Zealand claimed race honours in the second event, with the Netherlands and USA rounding out the top three.

Japan are currently first on five points, with Slovenia (eight) and the USA (10 points) well placed behind.

Racing continues on Day 6 of the 2016 Rio Olympics, with two more races in action.