Cold, changeable and challenging would sum up the sailing regatta at the Aims Games in Tauranga.

Sam Meech tends to finish regattas strongly, gaining momentum like the Freemantle Doctor blowing into Western Australia.

The Coastal Classic is offering a cruising rally as part of the well known race for those wanting a more relaxed kind of journey north.

Mark Mulcare is totally blind. He's also a three-time world champion helmsman.

Gemma Jones and Jason Saunders mounted a stirring comeback on the final day of the Nacra world championships in France but just fell short of picking up a medal.

Gemma Jones and Jason Saunders had a disappointing day at the Nacra 17 world championships in France overnight (NZ time) but a new Kiwi crew emerged as medal contenders.

In a day of snakes and ladders, Gemma Jones and Jason Saunders briefly led the Nacra 17 world championships in France overnight (NZ time) before suffering a capsize and ending the day in sixth overall.

Yachting is rarely a major component of schools sports so talented youngsters jump at the chance to represent their schools in sailing at the AIMS Games, which start in Tauranga on Sunday. 

The real racing will begin tonight (NZ time) at the Nacra 17 world championships in France with the start of gold fleet racing and Gemma Jones and Jason Saunders are well placed to push for a podium finish.

Gemma Jones and Jason Saunders endured a "frustrating" day at the Nacra 17 world championships in France overnight (NZ time) which included broken gear but they did well to limit the damage and are only one point off third.