Murphy struggles in Spain

Ireland’s fortunes could hardly have been more mixed in the two Laser single-handed classes on the opening day of the ISAF Sailing World Championships in Santander yesterday, as the hunt for a place at Rio 2016 heats up.

London 2012 veteran Annalise Murphy will need a massive turnaround today after two disappointing results yesterday when she placed 37th and 44th in the Laser Radial fleet.

The National Yacht Club sailor lies 86th in her class of 120 boats currently split into two flights before qualifying for the Gold fleet.