The WING is KING!

In the pre-race maneuvering today, Alinghi 5 fouled USA 17 and was protested by BMW Oracle. A 270 degree penalty was assessed. After stalling above the start line, USA 17 was 660 meters behind Alinghi.

Here BMW Oracle takes off, literally, after Alinghi. In 6-8 knots of headwind, USA 17, same boat, was able to catch, pass and out-point Alinghi.


BMW Oracle passes during the first leg.


AMAZING! With the true wind at 160-165 degrees blowing at 8 knots, BMW Oracle is able to sail at 24+ knots at 26 degrees. Here you can see the panels of the articulating wing main sail. With the boat built in Anacortes, it is a technological marvel!

Race #2 in the best of 3 is now scheduled for Sunday, Feb 14th. It is streamed live on americascup dot com (you know I can't put the link here.

Check it out!