While his crew may be previous Etchells World Champions, Graeme Taylor was ecstatic to claim his first ever World Title in the class, winning in Fremantle this past week.
Crewmates James Mayo won the title in 1999, and Richard Allanson in 2019, making them two-time World Champions in the class, but for the Skipper of Magpie, Graeme Taylor, his maiden win meant a huge amount:
"Both the boys have just put their absolute all into it. The boat and sails are immaculate, and we have everything you could possibly ask for, so we're very lucky and fortunate.
"I thank James for how good the boat is, and Richie is the ultimate workhorse; he just works his absolute butt off to get the job done.
"During these events, you learn a lot about each other and how we're all different, and that's been an interesting journey as well. But I love both the guys, and to win the World Championship here in Australia, there's nothing better. I'm absolutely thrilled."
Having sailed in the class for 20 years, Taylor had previously been bridesmaid in the Etchells World Championship three times, as well as another podium finish, so winning the title was especially sweet.
Andy Beadsworth, Brian Ledbetter and Ben Lamb finished second overall, with Graham Vials, Billy Russell, and Andrew Lawson third and first Corinthians.
Full results can be found at https://www.etchellsworldsfremantle.com/
Mark has been managing sailing websites since 1996, always being at the forefront of technology, and now manages the combined Sail-World.com and YachtsandYachting.com network. He has covered events such as the International Moth World Championship and Cowes Week, focusing on the sailors' thoughts and words. Mark has been European Champion in the Farr 30 & J/24 class and has won numerous UK titles, and competes regularly in local and national events in dinghies and sportsboats.