Excitement as New Zealand Sailors Secure Olympic Games Medal Race - Sports

Excitement as New Zealand Sailors Qualify for Olympic Games Medal Race

New Zealand sailors Jo Aleh and Molly Meech were surprised to learn that they had qualified for the women 's sailing skiff medal race at the Olympic Games . The official announcement came just as the pair was about to celebrate what they believed would be their final sail in the 49er FX.

"We thought it would be our last sailing in the 49er FX . So when someone told us that we will take your boat into quarantine we were shocked . We were thinking , ' oh , we won the medal race , ' " said Meech.

The upcoming medal race for the women 's sailing event is scheduled to take place on Thursday , following the men 's skiff race in which New Zealanders Isaac McHardie and William McKenzie will be competing for a gold medal . Despite not being in contention for a podium finish due to their previous scores , Aleh and Meech are determined to give their best effort in the 10 - boat showcase race.

Excitement as New Zealand Sailors Secure Olympic Games Medal Race

Celebrating Success at the Olympic Games

Aleh , who is 38 years old , has a successful history at the Olympics , having won silver and gold in the now defunct women 's dinghy event in 2012 and 2016 . Reflecting on their performance at the Games , Aleh expressed satisfaction with their progress compared to their initial showing.

"We just celebrated our last sailing ... now we must go and do it all again , " Aleh said.

Both Aleh and Meech are looking forward to the upcoming race with excitement , eager to have one more opportunity to showcase their skills on the water . Meech , who won a silver medal in the skiff event at the Rio Olympics in 2016 , highlighted their enthusiasm for the competition despite the challenges they have faced.

Final Preparations and Anticipation for the Medal Race

As the Kiwi sailors prepare for the medal race , they are focused on putting forth their best performance and enjoying the experience . The unexpected news of their qualification has added an element of excitement to their Olympic journey , motivating them to make the most of this opportunity.

"It 's going to be fun , one more race , " Aleh said , smiling.

With their sights set on the medal race , Aleh and Meech are determined to make the most of this unexpected opportunity and showcase their skills on the world stage . Their journey at the Olympic Games is a testament to their dedication and passion for sailing , setting the stage for an exciting conclusion to their competition.