Intro:

Olympic sailors tested the waters of Weymouth out during the Skandia Sail For Gold Regatta on Thursday.

Script:

The world's leading sailors got a glimpse of the Olympic course at the Skandia Sail For Gold Regatta in Weymouth and Portland on Thursday.

The venue will host the London Olympic and Paralympic Sailing and Windsurfing events.

With 50 days to go until the Games, the regatta is doubling up as an important practice run for many competitors who will return for the Olympics.

In the 49er class, British pair Stevie Morrison and Ben Rhodes are competing at their first event since being selected for the Olympics squad.

But with a gold medal in their sights, the Australians continue to be a threaten to their Olympic dream.

Nathan Outteridge and Iain Jensen are the three-time Skandia Sail For Gold Regatta champions and the boys from down under are considered one of the favourites for Olympic
gold.

Outteridge enjoyed the opportunity to scout the Olympic venue.

SOUNDBITE: (English) Nathan Outteridge, Australia, 49er class

"It's great that it's 50 days to the Games, and it's nice to be here in Weymouth seeing what the venue has got to offer. I head over to Newport in about a week's time to do some America's Cup sailing and then back home for a couple of weeks break before coming here in July."

Due to the strong winds out on the water, the 49ers only had one race which was a disaster for the Brits, who lie sixth overall.

Outteridge and Jensen lead the fleet.

In the finn class, Briton Giles Scott is restoring some British pride at the top of the standings.

The regatta concludes on Saturday.