Winning Olympic gold in a borrowed boat

In 2008, the Danish 49er sailing team won one of the most dramatic sailing golds in Olympic history.

Going into the final race, Denmark had a comfortable lead. But on their way to the start line, their mast snapped in stormy seas, seemingly crushing their chances of securing a medal. The only hope of salvaging their Olympic dreams rested on the selflessness of their Croatian competitors.

Sailors Martin Kirketerp and Pavle Kostov tell Marta Medvešek the story of a rollercoaster medal race.

Executive Producer: Jack Butcher

First broadcast: August 10, 2024 BBC World Service, Sporting Witness

Listen here.

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