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16 August 2006

Winning Formula for Olympic Success at Largs

The Scottish Sailing Institute at Largs has been praised for its efforts in inspiring young people to take sailing to Olympic Games level.

One of the most influential people in Olympic sport, Sir Craig Reedie, visited the impressive facilities at Largs Marina today (Wednesday) to watch the UK Laser National Championships 2006. The former chairman of the British Olympic Committee was overwhelmed at the facilities that are on offer to accommodate Championship events.

250 boats are competing in the prestigious 6 day event which is hosted by the Scottish Sailing Institute (SSI) in conjunction with Largs Sailing Club.

Sir Craig was joined by delegates from Sportscotland and EventScotland to hear how the race management task is carried out on shore as well as afloat. He says he’s delighted to see Scotland hosting events of this standard: “By far, sailing has proved itself to be the most successful sport for Britain at the Olympics. The medals we’ve won in Sydney and Athens have shown that British dingy sailors are the best in the world. Youngsters who are encouraged by our Olympic success can come and use facilities like the SSI at Largs.”

Scots title hopeful, Charlotte Dobson, performed well today, taking 2nd spot in her fleet. The 20 year old from Helensburgh is competing for top spot after a good performance in the 2005 championships and huge success last week in the USA. The national squad member was the highest placed Brit at the 2006 Laser Radial World Championship in Los Angeles.

Current radial National Champion, Steve Cockerill is placed 2nd overall behind Jon Emmett. Stephen Powell leads the Laser Standards fleet with Shane Terry top of the 4.7 fleet.

Light winds today meant the radials were the only fleet able to compete.

ends

Photo from left to right: Sir Craig Reedie, member of the International Olympic Committee; Jo Turner, Manager at the Scottish Sailing Institute; Eddie Ramsden, Chair of RYA UK; Julia Bracewell, Chair of Sportscotland; John Kent, Principal of the Sportscotland's National Centre Inverclyde; Carolyn Elder, Director of Largs Yacht Haven; Ron Baillie, Clydeport; Julie Pearson, Eventscotland.