New Zealand's 2008 world champion Ben Lutze holds a two-point lead over Ben Sluijter (Netherlands) after winning two races on the opening day of the Splash world championships off Takapuna yesterday. Reigning champion Declan Burn (NZL) is third with George Lane (NZL) fourth and Jock Coppejans (Belgium) fifth.
With the largest team and the benefit of local knowledge, New Zealand has claimed five of the top 10 positions, Holland four and Belgium one.
Only 10 points separate the top five, and 17 points separate the top 10, which means competition will be tight between the top 10 contenders, says spokeswoman Helen McKenzie. "Tomorrow's results will start to give us an idea of how it's going."
Laura Hemingway (NZL), in 21st place overall, is the top female participant.
Last year's top female, Nienke Reina Jorna (Netherlands), is two places and four points behind her.
A high approaching the country is expected to see yesterday's southwesterlies ease before racing starts today.
Racing yesterday was held in two flights. Scores are combined and after three days' racing the fleet is divided into gold and silver fleets for the final two days.
Yachting: Kiwi leads Splash world champs in tight contest
Competitors in the 2010 Splash world sailing championship head out to the start line for their first race. Photo / Sarah Ivey
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