Paul Goodison Wins Moth Worlds 2016

Published on May 29th, 2016

Hayama, Japan (May 29, 2016) – The final day of the YANMAR Moth Worlds 2016 could only complete one race, with leader Paul Goodison (GBR) posting a second to secure his first Moth World title. Thirty-eight year old Goodison, 2008 Beijing Olympic gold medalist in the Laser Class, won the British battle with Chris Rashley finishing second and Robert Greenhalgh, who won the final race, who ended in third.

“Because Rob (Robert Greenhalgh, third place) won the first race today, I felt pressure a little before the second race start,” explained said Goodison. “After the race start, the wind dropped. When I heard the race was cancelled, I was not disappointed to be honest. Although I was a little bit underprepared to join the championships, I am very happy to win the title after racing under various sailing conditions.

“If you are asking me which is more fun to sail, the Laser (with which I won the gold Olympic medal) or International Moth, I would say Moth. Foiling boat attracts me very much since I can tune my race boat by sailing conditions. It is also great to race together with world top level sailors.”

Wakako Tabata (JPN), who finished 37th, claimed the women’s world championship title among 6 female sailors. Rob Gough (AUS) finished 7th won the over 45 master world championship title. Shinichiro Yano (JPN), who joined in the championships supported by a special program to develop young sailors, finished 43rd and won the under 18 junior world championship title.

Olympic medalists dominate the international Moth world championship title over three consecutive championships. Nathan Outteridge, 2012 London Olympic gold medalist in the 49er Class won the title in 2014, Peter Burling, 2012 London Olympic silver medalist in the 49er Class won the title in 2015, and Goodison won this year.

International Moth Class attracts many top sailors. “Super sailors who experienced Olympic games, Volvo Ocean Race and the America’s Cup joined in the championships,” observed said Rashley. “However, everyone casually exchange his or her own knowledge and skills in very friendly ambiance. It is environment of Moth Class.”

Sixty-six sailors from 11 countries participated in YANMAR Moth World Championships 2016. The 2017 world competition will be held in Lake Garda, Italy during summer.

Final Results (Top 10 of 66; 13 races, 2 discards)