No racing was possible on day one in Geelong, with sailors kept ashore ©Sailing Energy

Strong winds meant no racing was possible on day one of the 49er, 49erFX and Nacra 17 World Championships in Australia.

The Race Committee monitored conditions at Royal Geelong Yacht Club and gusts of between 25 and 30 knots were recorded.

Sailors in the 49er class stayed ashore all day while the 49erFX and Nacra 17 action which was planned for the afternoon was called off early.

Crews played pool and cards ashore because of the abandonment.

Organisers are now hoping to begin the World Championships tomorrow.

Crews passed the time by playing pool and cards ©Sailing Energy
Crews passed the time by playing pool and cards ©Sailing Energy

Lighter winds are forecast but there is a chance of thunderstorms in the afternoon.

The event is the last major class title before the Tokyo 2020 Olympics.

As well as world titles, the competition also has importance as it will be used by several countries to select their crews for the Games in Japan.

The 2019 World Championship in Auckland only took place between December 3 and 8 last year.