Difficult ocean conditions prove costly to Allan
Florence Allan at the Olympics (Photo by Allan V. Crane)
(CNS): Florence Allan found the going rough on the open-ocean course of her Olympic competition, with intense weather conditions and her light weight combining to prevent her from completing the races within the allotted time. Allan took more than six hours in total for the two races, held 10 August, which resulted in a “Did Not Finish” by her name.
In addition to being the lightest sailor in the competition, which puts her at a disadvantage, especially in the open ocean, she battled four-to-five-foot waves and winds of up to 21.9 knots.
Jennifer Powell, Cayman Islands Olympic Committee chef de mission, said she was proud of Allan’s efforts under very difficult circumstances. “I was given the privilege of riding in the coaches’ boat for Florence’s competition (Wednesday). Her determination to finish both races despite terrible weather conditions at such a light weight was nothing short of impressive,” she said.
“A cold front came through and the wind, rain and cold air ripped through during her races. There were long periods of time that we couldn’t see her because of the wave height and rain, but she just kept pushing through to get it done. It was an emotional finish when she wasn’t able to complete in the allotted time but for her to finish after six hours total out in the open water is extremely commendable and we couldn’t be more proud of her effort.”
After a rest day Thursday, Allan is back on the water today, 12 August.
Category: Sports
Totally worth putting your heath at risk by sailing in that disgusting water then. smh
Great effort Florence, many of us are proud of you!