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Emirates Team New Zealand Achieves Victory in Louis Vuitton Cup
Emirates Team New Zealand secured a solid victory against Swiss Alinghi Red Bull Racing in the fourth race on the penultimate day of the Louis Vuitton Round Robin.
With conditions presenting a lumpy one-meter sea state and a breeze of 12 to 14 knots off the Barcelona waterfront, the stage was set for a thrilling day of racing. Coach Ray Davies expressed the challenges posed by the tricky conditions, noting, “It makes it hard to be super accurate sailing in these conditions.” He highlighted the remarkable performance of the classic boats in these winds.
Match Overview: Emirates Team New Zealand (Port Entry) vs. Alinghi Red Bull Racing
This crucial race serves as the concluding competition before Emirates Team New Zealand advances directly to the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Match. The team aimed to establish their dominance while sharpening their racing techniques. Although Alinghi Red Bull Racing came off a heavy defeat to the British team, the beginning saw Emirates Team New Zealand experimenting with various tactics, resulting in a less-than-ideal start.
A drag race ensued towards the right boundary, with the Kiwis striving to hold their position. However, the Swiss allowed a small margin for Emirates Team New Zealand, which ultimately allowed them to take control of the race. At the first windward gate, the Kiwis held a seven-second lead, which expanded to 13 seconds by the time they rounded the leeward gate.
Despite a slip on rounding the mark, the Kiwis maintained their lead due to the speed of ‘Taihoro.’ A strong beat allowed Emirates Team New Zealand to extend their advantage at the second windward gate, leading by 20 seconds. With a clever strategy on the second downwind leg, the team rounded the final leeward gate with a remarkable 23-second lead.
As they approached the finish line, helmsman Nathan Outteridge and the crew remained composed, ultimately securing a victory with a delta of 38 seconds. “Great sailing from the Kiwis,” he remarked on their performance, highlighting their efficiency throughout the race.
Final Results: Emirates Team New Zealand beat Alinghi Red Bull Racing by 38 seconds.
Reflecting on the race, Outteridge acknowledged their questionable starting maneuver but expressed satisfaction with their overtaking maneuver soon after. He commented on the challenging conditions posed by the waves, stating, “With these waves out here today, it is pretty hard to control the leeway at times.”
As Emirates Team New Zealand gears up for their final round-robin match against NYYC American Magic, scheduled before the Louis Vuitton 37th America’s Cup Match on October 12, they remain focused on continuous improvement. Outteridge noted, “It’s going to be a big one against American Magic,” emphasizing the importance of maintaining momentum and seeking speed ahead of the significant competition.
The competition continues for the Challengers over the next five weeks as they vie for victory in the Louis Vuitton Cup, while Emirates Team New Zealand relentlessly pursues development and enhancements leading up to the 37th America’s Cup match.
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Ava Thompson, a skilled sailor and marine journalist from Auckland, has developed a deep connection to the ocean that guides her work. With a degree in Marine Journalism from the University of Auckland, Ava is known for her engaging and detailed storytelling. Her writing brings to life the thrill of sailing and the unique maritime culture of New Zealand, earning her recognition in the sailing community. Outside of her journalism, Ava enjoys exploring the rugged coastlines of New Zealand and competing in local regattas, always in search of her next seafaring adventure.
