Luke Patience and Stuart Bithell, the dynamic sailing duo who claimed silver in the 470 class at the 2012 Olympic Games, are to go their separate ways in their quest for Olympic gold in Rio.

The decision has been taken because the Skandia Team GBR pairing was at the heavier end of the optimum weight for a 470 crew, at what was predominantly a windy Weymouth Games venue. With predominantly light winds anticipated for the Rio Games, weight becomes even more of a factor.

“We’re good mates, so although it’s been a blast and I’ll miss sailing with Luke, we know it’s the right decision to take,” said Bithell.

Bithell will step out of the 470 altogether in his bid for Rio gold, instead mounting a campaign as a helm in the high-performance 49er class with his new crew set to be announced shortly. Patience, meanwhile, will remain in the 470 class, and is weighing up his options for a best-fit crew who can help him achieve his gold-medal ambitions.