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Dylan Fletcher Claims First SailGP Victory as Britain’s Skipper
A Statement Win in Sydney
Dylan Fletcher secured his first event victory as Britain’s SailGP skipper in Sydney, proving his ability to lead independently. Having previously shared helming duties with Ben Ainslie, this win marked a significant milestone in his career.
Stepping Up as Sole Helm
Ben Ainslie, Britain’s most successful America’s Cup campaign leader, initially selected Fletcher as co-helm for the event. Now entrusted with full control of the SailGP F50, Fletcher emphasized the importance of proving himself without Ainslie alongside him.
“As much as last year was fantastic, it was always with Ben Ainslie on the other side. So this is me helming on my own, and I think it’s important to put that marker in the sand,” Fletcher stated after the victory.
Beating the Best
Fletcher clinched his maiden SailGP win by narrowly surpassing Giles Scott, who now leads Canada’s team after being overlooked by Ainslie for the America’s Cup, and home favorite Tom Slingsby of Australia.
“I’m just here trying to win SailGP and to be in the best position for the America’s Cup because I obviously believe I can helm the British campaign to victory,” Fletcher said. “There’s no better way to prove that than winning SailGP in one-design catamarans.”
Navigating Uncertainty in British Sailing
The uncertainty surrounding Britain’s next America’s Cup campaign, following a split between billionaire Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS and Ainslie’s Athena Racing, has raised questions about the future of the British challenge.
While acknowledging the situation as “probably not the best scenario,” Fletcher remains focused on SailGP as a platform to demonstrate his capabilities. “Distracting in some respects, but once you get out there on the racecourse, those things are a long way away,” he said.
Ainslie’s Ongoing Influence
Despite no longer being on deck, Ainslie continues to provide guidance to Fletcher and the team. His experience in SailGP remains invaluable, and Fletcher frequently consults him for advice.
“I’ll pick up the phone and talk to Ben and see what he thinks, because he’s got so much experience within SailGP. It’s great to lean on him and get him involved,” Fletcher remarked.
Hannah Mills’ Role and Future Ambitions
Olympic sailor Hannah Mills plays a key role in the team as a strategist, gaining experience with the goal of becoming a future helm. She is also an advocate for equal representation in sailing.
“I really feel as though Hannah and I are gelling together well in our communication styles,” Fletcher said. “Fingers crossed we can continue to build on that.”
Looking Ahead
Fletcher, frustrated by not securing a podium finish in the first two events of the season, is determined to maintain his momentum. Ahead of the next SailGP series in March, he plans to stay sharp by training with a new Moth foiling dinghy.
“I don’t like to take my foot off the gas,” he said. “I’m going to get into that and keep myself busy, developing my skills for the America’s Cup.”
Reflecting on the Sydney victory, Fletcher acknowledged its significance given the backdrop of Britain’s sailing uncertainty. “It feels like some poetic justice for the team, given everything that’s going on.”
“Dylan Fletcher Claims First SailGP Victory as Britain’s Skipper” “Dylan Fletcher Claims First SailGP Victory as Britain’s Skipper” “Dylan Fletcher Claims First SailGP Victory as Britain’s Skipper” “Dylan Fletcher Claims First SailGP Victory as Britain’s Skipper” “Dylan Fletcher Claims First SailGP Victory as Britain’s Skipper”