Set to stun

Goodison wins Laser championship

British Beijing Olympic gold medallist Paul Goodison has won the Laser European Championship.

This year’s event, held in Landskrona, Sweden, was Goodison’s fifth consecutive victory in this championship. He has not been beaten in a Laser since the Olympics, appearing transcendent above all competitors. The 31-year-old from Rotheram previously won successive ISAF Sailing World Cup events in Hyeres, Medemblik and Kiel before prevailing in Sweden.

Goodison claimed overall victory after a disconcerting opening, in which he was disqualified for a premature start in race one. New Zealand sailor Michael Bullot appeared a threat with unyielding sailing and unwavering results during the ultimate three races of the regatta. Hawke's Bay sailor James Sandall, 20, struggled towards the end of the race after a confident start, finishing in 19th place.

10 races were sailed over the week, with the final round cut short of the intended schedule, due to adverse weather conditions. Later this month Goodison will compete in the world championship, where our British champion is favourite to win the title at the China event.