Briggs catching the breeze in Sydney

JAMES BRIGGS (pictured) is displaying his skills on the other side of the world at the 2009 Formula Windsurfing Oceanics and Australian Championships.

While the island is currently shivering in freezing winter conditions, Guernsey's top formula windsurfing racer is enjoying 30C-plus temperatures down under.

'Being in Sydney at this time of year has been an incredible experience,' said the 33-year-old yesterday.

'It didn't feel traditionally festive given the fine weather and it was a strange sight indeed to see the Christmas trees and decorations up while all were walking around in summer attire enjoying the beach.'

The prestigious tournament is taking place at Ramsgate Beach, Botany Bay.

Briggs is the sole British sailor in the event and after the first three rounds on the opening day, which experienced excellent sunny and windy conditions, he found himself 10th out of 23 competitors.

Queenslander Sean O'Brien leads the table.