Beijing 08 GB representatives: Stevie Morrison, Ben Rhodes 

The 49er is one of the most exhilarating of all of the Olympic Classes, providing exciting racing over short courses. With a huge sail area (consisting of mainsail, jib and asymmetric spinnaker), twin trapezes and an ultra light hull it can reach up to 30 knots in speed. The boat requires the crew to have a high level of agility and athleticism as they must make rapid, and often acrobatic, movements. Designed by Australian architect Julian Bethwaite in 1995, the class made its debut at the 2000 Sydney Games.

SPECIFICATIONS:
Length: 4.995m (16ft)
Breadth: 2.9m (9ft)
Weight: 70kg (155lb)
Type: Skiff
Crew: 2
Designer: Frank Bethwaite
Year: 1995

Athens 2004 Olympic Results
Gold: Ilker MARTINEZ and Xavier FERNANDEZ - Spain

Silver: Rodion LUKA and George LEONCHUK - Ukraine

Bronze: Chris DRAPER and Simon HISCOCKS Great Britain

Sydney 2000 Olympic Results
Gold: Thomas JOHANSON and Jyrki JARVI - Finland

Silver: Ian BARKER and Simon HISCOCKS - Great Britain

Bronze: Jonathan MCKEE and Charlie MCKEE - USA