his cap yesterday with victory in the prestigious North American Championships in Galveston Bay, Texas.

With the large entry of 60 boats split into two fleets -- gold and silver -- Smith dominated in the gold division with three firsts during the six races.

His other finishes were seventh, ninth and a 14th which he was allowed to drop at the end of the regatta.

Smith ended the week with 19 points, five less than second-placed American Ash Beatty. Both qualified for next year's Pan-Am Games in Winnipeg, Canada.

Three of the races, said Smith, were sailed in light to moderate winds and the other three in heavier conditions.