Kiwi Olympic bronze medallist sailor Sam Meech is aiming for a podium finish at the world championships in Denmark in five weeks.
Just one Kiwi has claimed a world title in the highly competitive dinghy class, but Meech is hoping to change that.
Meech has had to deal with miserable winter conditions in Auckland while preparing for the world champs.
"I find that I always sail better after a little bit of down time at home," said Meech.
The 27-year-old's build up form has been impressive, a breakthrough world cup win late last year and three podium finishes at the European regattas in 2018.
But the laser class in one of the most competitive.
"I think there's probably about six people who can win it and about 10 or 12 who can get on the podium.
"The Australians historically have been very strong which is painful but there's a whole range of guys, Europeans are getting better and better," he said.
Last year Meech had a similar build up to the big event but after sitting second halfway through the world championships he faded to 12th.
"I did get a little sick which didn't help so this year lots of probiotics and doing everything I can."
There'll be five Kiwis in the laser class in Denmark but despite the depth in the dinghies there has only been one New Zealand champ back in 1994.
"It's been a while, Nick Burfoot was a long time ago so we've got a bit of pressure on this year to try and get back up there."
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