In Santa Pola, Spain, in what can only be described as a cliff hanger week of racing at the Formula Windsurfing World Championships, Allison Shreeve of Australia has finished on equal points in first place, but has had to settle for runner up this year.
In the lead going into the final day of racing, the four time Formula Windsurfing World Champion, had to wait out an intense day on the beach to see whether the light and unstable winds would co-operate sufficiently for the race organizers to be able to set a course. With the 5.00pm conclusion deadline looming and certain victory for Shreeve, the race committee sent the men's and women's fleets onto the water to squeeze in one final race. The Polish champion, Marta Hlavaty was able to do enough to win the final race in a close finish to even up the points on the score card. With both women now sharing equal points at the end of competition, the count back system came into effect with the Championship going to whoever had the best discards. With Shreeve and Hlavaty however both dropping a 2nd, the count back then applied to the next discard, and that honour went to Hlavaty. Morane Demant of Francerd place overall. finished in 3
"It's been one incredibly tough week of racing and of course I'm disappointed to miss out in that way, I'm really happy with my new Gaastra equipment though." said Shreeve.
Shreeve got off to a great start winning the first race of the championships and was feeling confident, but back at the shore she cut a nasty 10cm gash into the shin on her left leg with her fin. With a doctor among the spectators and ambulance crew on stand by, four large metal staples were injected into the wound to hold the gaping flesh together, so Shreeve was able to get back out on the water in time for the second race. Doctors were then able to stitch the wound properly with 10 stitches, and with daily treatment, Shreeve 'dug deep' to finish out the week of intense racing in conditions ranging from light to 30 knot winds.
By contrast, in the men's fleet, Steve Allen of Australia was actually hoping for one more race going into the final day of the competition being in 2nd position overall. In fine form, Allen rose to the occasion and was able to convincingly beat Woijek Brzowski of Poland knocking him out of 1st position, and securing for himself the title of 2009 Formula Windsurfing World Champion.
Shreeve will return home to Australia immediately to fulfill speaking engagements and to have a well-earned rest. "Thanks to those who supported me this year, Gaastra, Club Marine and Jesus 'all about life'."
Photos and more information can be found at http://www.formulawindsurfing.org, or www.aus911.com or Facebook - Allison Shreeve.
Youtube videos of event here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RXPiY4oHX5k
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=37KjMf5QnVs
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wmV4ZukV-ms
