After a dramatic 45-hour repair of their AC75, Taihoro, following a haul-out incident after racing on Thursday, Emirates Team New Zealand returned to the racecourse in Barcelona today. They gained another point against Orient Express Team France, who failed to start the scheduled race due to equipment issues.

Before dock out, there were subtle thanks and pats on the back from the sailing team in recognition of the enormous job the dedicated members of the shore crew had undertaken to tirelessly repair the damaged boat in such a short timeframe.

Racing was a click up from yesterday’s bottom end wind conditions. An 8-10 knot easterly was in place for what had been labelled ‘Super Saturday’ due to the planned six races scheduled. This was to make up for the missed races yesterday, thanks to a lack of wind.

The schedule was ambitious. In the end, the 6th and final race of the day against Alinghi Red Bull Racing couldn’t be completed, so will now be raced tomorrow.  

AMERICA’S CUP RACE REPORT

Emirates Team New Zealand vs Orient Express Team France

A speed test for the French, a structural boat test for the returning Kiwis but it’s disaster at the start for the French who appear to have an issue and don’t enter the start-box.

For the Kiwis it’s a chance to give their AC75 a full shake-down unopposed and they look just fine. At the point of the Emirates Team New Zealand start, the Race Committee are informed that Orient Express had retired and the race is awarded to the Kiwis.

Emirates Team New Zealand bt Orient Express Racing Team (Retired)

Despite, not being able to sail a full race, there was still plenty to celebrate for the team, Sam Meech explains: "It was a long, hot day out there, but unbelievable to get the boat back out on the water. The boats going like it always has and we're pretty happy with the boats performance. It was just good to get out there, and just run through our day. We'll get ready for tomorrow and can't wait to race."

Although low on action, it was a positive day for Emirates Team New Zealand to be back out on the water after a busy few days in the boat shed.

The Race Committee will aim to complete the first-round robin racing tomorrow with a more promising 9-12 knot easterly forecast.