The women’s Laser Radical World Championships finished up this week after six days of races. Ireland’s Aoife Hopkins had gone into the final day holding 20th overall and won her tenth race, putting her in 17th place overall.
The new personal best for Hopkins marks the end of successful few weeks for the Irish Sailing team, who saw Finn Lynch win the silver medal in the men’s race and Sean Craig secure a World Master’s fourth last month.
Hopkins was joined by fellow Howth Yacht Club member Sienna Wright in representing Ireland at the Championships which took place in Mussanah, Oman.
Hopkins last race and new personal best, saw her ahead from the start, leading the 63- strong fleet from the start.
Congratulations to Aoife Hopkins who achieved a personal best outcome and a top 20 finish at the Laser Radial (ILCA6) World Championships in Oman today after winning the tenth race of the series and ending the regatta in 17th overall.
Read more here: https://t.co/qS2VFnM8Y9 pic.twitter.com/LMg5CiTzUs
— Irish Sailing (@Irish_Sailing) December 6, 2021
“Aoife sailed an excellent regatta in very challenging conditions against the world’s best,” said James O’Callaghan, Irish sailing Performance Director.
“She has delivered in style. It is no more than she deserves after a really tough few years”.
Belgium’s Emma Plasschaert took first place at the Championships in a tight race which saw majority leader Anne-Marie Rindom settle with fourth overall.
Hopkins, who hails from Dublin, is part of the Irish Sailing Senior Team who are working towards qualification for the 2024 Olympics.
The World Championships results from both the men and women will give Irish Sailing the confidence towards qualification, with full competition programmes returning next March.