Champions out training

Rob Greenhalgh and Howie Hamlin prepare for tomorrow's Giltinan Championship for the 18ft skiffs

Three of the world’s best 18ft Skiff teams spent yesterday preparing their skiffs for the toughest 18ft Skiff challenge on the calendar – the JJ Giltinan Championship, which starts on Sydney Harbour on Friday.

Former champions Howie Hamlin (2002 and 2003) of the United States and Rob Greenhalgh (2004) of Great Britain, as well as the New Zealand National champion Chris Skinner all spent several hours working on their skiffs before going for a practice sail in the 15 knot northeast winds.

All three are expected to be amongst the leading contenders for the title but will have strong competition from the Australian champion Gotta Love It 7 team, two-time winner Michael Coxon (2006 and 2007) in Thurlow Fisher Lawyers and Volvo Round-the-World skipper Anders Lewander in Team Gill Sweden.

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