Ben Ainslie has been voted the men's World Sailor of the Year by the International Sailing Federation (ISAF).

Sydney Olympic gold medallist Ainslie was given the award in recognition of his successful transition from the Laser to the Finn class.

After a spell with the OneWorld challenge in the America's Cup Ainslie returned to single-handing racing at the start of 2002 and quickly demonstrated his ability.

After only six months in the class, BBC Sport sailing expert Ainslie won the Finn European title.

He followed up with the Finn Gold Cup and then took the 2002 Athens Test Event.

Sofia Bekatorou and Emilia Tsoulfa of Greece won the female award after dominating the Olympic women's double-handed event in the 470 Class.

The winners were each presented with a Rolex Yachtmaster chronometer and an ISAF Rolex World Sailor of the Year Trophy.