Monsoon Cup: BlackMatch in the clear with Cian and Mirsky, while 6 teams remain in contention for 5 remaining slots

Tom and Trae winding the BlackMatch boat up to speed in Malaysia. Image copyright Sander van der Borch.

by David Swete

In the shiftiest day seen so far here at the 2008 Monsoon Cup, we managed to improve our scoreline to 7 wins 3 losses and secure our spot in the quarter final. We are currently lying a close third with one race to go and are guaranteed this position, although we can overtake Torvar Mirsky tomorrow if we beat Holmberg and he loses to Col. Cian has sailed an excellent regatta so far and has secured the top qualifying position, while further down the field there is a very tight race for the 5 remaining quarter final berths, a six way tie which includes all 3 of the world title contenders.


A collision results in a penalty for Gilmour. Image copyright Sander van der Borch.

Now this is where the interesting stuff begins, our final race tomorrow is against Holmberg where a win to us could see him ousted, this is the same predicament for Col who is racing against Mirsky. Ian Williams who is the defending champion has a pressure match against an out of contention but eager Johnie Berntsson, while Ainslie and Richard come head to head to see who will go through in their match. Two time Monsoon Cup champion Peter Gilmour is also still in contention, however he has no more racing and will be relying on Richard to take out his match against Ainslie if he is to proceed.


Pre-start action against World #1 Mathieu Richard, the Frenchman won in a very close race keeping his hopes alive. Image copyright Sander van der Borch.

A late run today by Mathieu Richard, who had to win all of his matches today to stay in contention saw the world number 1 showing his class, taking 3 victories and an all important win over Ian Williams. Adding to the drama was a decision to deduct Magnus Holmberg of a full point due to his involvement in an incident with Ian Williams. The incident resulted in serious damage to Ian's boat and the decision has definitely contributed to the bizarre 6 way tie that has occurred.

BlackMatch would like to again thank our sponsors FedEx Express and Line 7 New Zealand. Also a very special thank you to the RNZYS and the support of our friends and family.

BlackMatch Racing