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Louis Vuitton Preliminary Regatta Overall
22-25 August 2024
Emirates Team New Zealand claimed victory at the Louis Vuitton Preliminary Regatta, celebrating with Moët & Chandon champagne after an intense final against Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli.
The final race showcased exceptional match racing, highlighting the skills of the top helmsmen from both teams. Right from the outset, the competition was fierce. It served as a perfect preview for the upcoming Louis Vuitton Cup starting on August 29th.
Peter Burling, skipper of Emirates Team New Zealand, expressed his feelings about the onboard challenges during the race, stating: “It was incredibly challenging to sail in those conditions, and we had a few issues to manage. We lucked out in the pre-start and managed to gain a penalty on them, but sticking to our strategy and making a successful pass was really pleasing.” He also acknowledged the tight competition, emphasizing that it’s all about making the right moves at the right times.
The regatta saw three high-quality races featuring all six teams, with changing weather conditions leading to exciting overtakes. The New York Yacht Club American Magic team made a notable impression, with Tom Slingsby and Paul Goodison, sailing ‘Patriot,’ securing the first victory against Emirates Team New Zealand, demonstrating outstanding boatspeed and tactical execution.
Following their impressive win, Paul Goodison remarked on their performance: “We were very disappointed yesterday to miss out on racing with the French team, so today’s win is fantastic, especially in the lighter, trickier conditions we expect to face as the competition progresses.”
NYYC American Magic’s skipper, Terry Hutchinson, reflected on their consistent sailing performance. He pointed out the importance of continuous improvement for the team while keeping the overall goal in mind: “We’ve got to keep focusing on the bigger picture and continue to improve.”
In other exhilarating races, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli seized victory against Alinghi Red Bull Racing, despite the Swiss team having an early advantage. Swiss skipper Arnaud Psarofaghis acknowledged the need to analyze their performance to prevent future errors, calling the competition tough but rewarding.
During a match between INEOS Britannia and Orient Express Racing Team, Sir Ben Ainslie’s British team capitalized on early mistakes from their French opponents. Dylan Fletcher from INEOS commended the exciting racing, recognizing the need for continued progress as they advance into the Round Robin phase.
Finally, the dramatic finale of the Louis Vuitton Preliminary Regatta was marked by high-performance foiling racing. Throughout the race, Emirates Team New Zealand skillfully navigated the conditions to emerge victorious over Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli. Francesco Bruni from Luna Rossa acknowledged the challenges faced, stating the importance of reviewing their performance to improve ahead of the next competition.
With the trophy awarded to Emirates Team New Zealand, the regatta was a thrilling showcase of sailing prowess. All attention now shifts to the Louis Vuitton Cup starting on August 29th, where every race and every point will be crucial in this competitive environment. The journey towards the 37th America’s Cup intensifies, promising more epic battles ahead.
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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.
