The impossible has happened, and today Oracle Team USA overcame a two-race penalty, and an eight race to one deficit to successfully defend the America’s Cup. The final race was closely fought for only the first two legs. New Zealand and Oracle crossed the starting line simultaneously and New Zealand retained mark room rights at the first mark. Oracle pressed but New Zealand successfully defended on the next leg, but then Oracle’s newfound upwind dominance ruled the third leg and by the top mark its lead was insurmountable.
The Kiwis were gracious in defeat, as was team Oracle in victory.
Be sure to pick up an October issue of Northwest Yachting. We’ll have a spread of Neil Rabinowitz’ photos, a taste of which you see here, and coverage of the event itself.
For my part, I’ll be talking to some of the people involved with hopes of finding out what might have helped Oracle find that amazing turn of speed during the regatta.
