Erica Dawson and Micah Wilkinson in action in the medal race. Photo: AFP/CHRISTOPHE SIMON
New Zealand sailors Erica Dawson and Micah Wilkinson have claimed Olympic bronze in the Nacra mixed multihull in Marseille.
The duo finished eighth in the final, but took the medal on points.
Their closest competition for the bronze heading into the race was Great Britain, who were disqualified for a false start.
The Brits were unaware of their indiscretion, and raced on until the umpires pulled them out.
Italy took the gold while Argentina won silver.
The Kiwi sailors embrace after crossing the finish line. Photo: AFP/NICOLAS TUCAT
The French cruised to the finish, well out in front of the rest of the pack, but were out of medal contention and finished in fifth place overall.
There were some late concerns over wind strength and a potential abandonment as it dipped below five knots, but the race was completed without further drama.
The win took New Zealand's medal tally to 11.
Speaking to Sky Sport after the race, Dawson said the duo were in a state of disbelief and happiness.
"I just can't believe it. It's so cool."
Wilkinson said the pair had raced together for five years and only medalled at one event.
"To do it when it matters is an incredible feeling."
