Jordi Xammar and Marta Cardona delivered a commanding display at French Olympic Week in Hyères, sweeping three consecutive race wins to take firm control of the 470 Gold Fleet. Strong afternoon winds and challenging seas reshaped the leaderboard during a dramatic day on the water off the southern French coast.
Three races were completed in the Gold Fleet, where the top 19 teams are battling it out following the qualification series. The Spanish pair’s dominance in heavy conditions underscored their exceptional control and consistency, building a four-point lead over the second-placed crew.
Holding steady in second are Martin Wrigley and Bettine Harris, who remain the most consistent performers across the fleet. Their ability to maintain composure through shifting conditions has kept them firmly in contention.
The French duo of Manon Pennaneac’h and Pierre Williot produced one of the standout results of the day, climbing an impressive fourteen positions to move into third overall. Their surge through the Gold Fleet marks a remarkable turnaround after finishing 17th in the qualification series.
“The conditions today were around 20 to 25 knots, with waves of about one metre. We did three races, and for us it was a very good day because we moved up to third place after being 17th, so it’s quite a big improvement for us,” said Manon Pennaneac’h.
“We were very fast today and managed to sail really well, so we are very happy. Tomorrow, the goal is simply to have good starts, enjoy ourselves, and keep the speed up,” added Pierre Williot.
Another impressive mover was the French pair of Matisse Pacaud and Lucie De Gennes, known for thriving in heavy air. They surged from 13th to 5th place, confirming their pedigree when the breeze builds and the racing becomes physically demanding.
It is worth noting that sailors enter the Gold Fleet carrying forward their ranking positions as points from the qualification stage, meaning early form still plays a significant role in the overall standings.
Racing continues as the competition intensifies in Hyères. Two more days remain for the 470 sailors, featuring Gold Fleet racing, and on Saturday the top ten teams will compete in the medal series.
