and second-place finishes during yesterday's races in the International Star Masters Championship regatta.

After entering the day more than two points adrift of Heinz Maurer of Switzerland, Beek was able to produce his best showing thus far and move to the head of the standings after five races.

With one race remaining today, he currently enjoys a five-and-a-quarter-point lead over fellow countryman Kim Fletcher.

However, taking into account that every competitor is allowed to drop one result the current top four competitors -- Beek, Fletcher, Maurer and Eckart Wagner -- all remain mathematically alive for a shot at the prize.

Maurer incurred a dismal day, placing ninth in the first race and only managing fourth the next time out.

Wagner, meanwhile, took honours in race one ahead of Beek and Hank Rowan in third.

Race two belonged to Beek, who has been the most consistent performer all week. Trailing in second was Fletcher followed by Mead Batchelor.