Dean Barker, skipper, Emirates Team New Zealand. Image copyright Gilles Martin-Raget/www.americascup.com
by Warren Douglas
Dean Barker and his crew are looking for a strong showing on the water tomorrow to set them up for the crucial last day of the Boston Extreme Sailing Series regatta.
At the end of Day 3 Emirates Team New Zealand retained its third place on the overall standings with 158 points, one behind The Wave placed second. Artemis leads after 22 races with 169 points.
Barker said: “We had a very ordinary day today and we’re happy that we’re still third and slipped only three points on the leader.”
Today’s results for the team included two wins, but as Barker said, “we gave up too many easy points. Tomorrow we’re looking for a good, solid performance. We need to be in contention as we go into the last day on Monday.
“At least 14 more races can be held over the next two days if conditions allow. Five or six teams have a good chance of winning.”
Regatta organisers reported that thousands of spectators filled the Extreme Sailing Series race village on Day 3 and were treated to 49er racing followed by eight first-class, action-packed Extreme 40 races.
“A good sea breeze allowed the Extreme 40s to showcase how this style of stadium racing really works.
“The start/finish area, located just a few metres from the shore, gave the public a close-up view of all the action.”
Extreme Sailing Series Act 4 Boston
Overall standings after 22 races, Day 3 (2.7.11)
1st Artemis Racing (SWE), 169 points
2nd The Wave, Muscat (OMA), 159 points
3rd Emirates Team New Zealand (NZL), 158 points
4th Groupe Edmond de Rothschild (FRA), 156 points
5th Luna Rossa (ITA), 151 points
6th Red Bull Extreme Sailing (AUT), 148.2* points
7th Alinghi (SUI), 141 points
8th Niceforyou (ITA), 114 points
9th Oman Air (OMA), 106 points
Emirates Team New Zealand
Extreme Sailing Series
