by Jane Eagleson
BMW ORACLE Racing has started the 33rd America's Cup Match with a convincing victory over the defender, Alinghi.
Racing was postponed for four and a half hours before Principal Race Officer Harold Bennett gave the start signal in a gentle 4 to 5 knot southerly wind.
After both boats entered the start box, skipper James Spithill (AUS) was able to speed deep into the box on starboard tack, preventing Alinghi 5 - the give way boat - from crossing ahead. As the boats dialled-up into the wind, the Umpires judged Alinghi hadn't done enough to keep clear and penalised the Swiss team.
Alinghi, however, made a good recovery. With both teams to windward of the start line, the Swiss made a quick return to start ahead. In fact, by the time USA crossed the starting line, it was over 600 metres behind A5.
But then USA started to simply outpace A5 by sailing higher (closer to the wind) and slightly faster. The 600 metre deficit was soon erased, and USA went on to lead by 3:21 around the top mark.
Downwind, the advantage to the American boat was even more pronounced. USA continued to add to its lead all the way to the finish line.
The final delat at the finish, after Alinghi completed its penalty turn and finished correctly, was 15:28.
BMW ORACLE Racing
Saturday, 13 February 2010
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