Van Aanholt and Duetz: The Medal that nearly wasn't
It was the most dramatic of conclusions to a Medal Race, but after the longest five minutes of their lives, Odile van Aanholt and Annette Duetz (NED) could finally start celebrating their Olympic gold medal.
Down the final run to the finish, the Dutch were looking clear ahead of the USA’s Steph Roble and Maggie Shea in second. Both boats charged towards the race committee boat, but the Swedes in third turned left past the committee boat towards… towards the actual finish!
Realising their monumental error, the American and Dutch boats quickly changed the course and charged towards the finish line. The Swedes crossed in first and celebrated like they had won gold. Perhaps they had! For a moment, no one knew. The Italians had also taken advantage of the confusion to cross in second. The Dutch managed to haul themselves across the line in third just ahead of New Zealand. But what of the gold? Was it still theirs?
Spanish Sensations Botin and Trittel Strike Gold in Men's Skiff
Diego Botin and Florian Trittel fulfilled a lifelong dream by mastering the Men’s Skiff to become Olympic champions.
The Spanish pair sailed impressively throughout the regatta, finishing top of the Opening Series by a narrow five-point margin.
Botin and Trittel had not won an individual race heading into the decisive Medal Race, but they saved their best for last, dominating the fleet in an exceptional show on the water to cross the line first.
Botin said: “It’s a dream come true. After years of putting the work in with the best team, with our families here, it doesn’t get any better.”
Discover the World of Olympic-Class Sailing
Discover the History and Legacy of the 49er Class Association. At the heart of our association are the athletes who compete in 49er races around the world. These sailors are among the best in the world, and they represent the pinnacle of Olympic sailing. We are proud to support these athletes as they train, compete, and strive for excellence in their sport.
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