Ellen MacArthur (L) sails as "18th man" aboard Emirates Team New Zealand in their match against United Internet Team Germany. Photo / Chris Cameron, ETNZ
Ellen MacArthur (L) sails as "18th man" aboard Emirates Team New Zealand in their match against United Internet Team Germany. Photo / Chris Cameron, ETNZ
The wins keep on coming for Team New Zealand in round two of the challenger series in Valencia.
Emirates Team New Zealand breezed past United internet Team Germany winning by 2 minutes 07s and maintaining their unbeaten record in round two.
After an even start Team New Zealandpulled away in the first beat to round the top mark 32 seconds ahead.
They gained on every leg, most notably in the second upwind leg where they added over 1 minute to their lead.
British yachtswoman Ellen MacArthur sailed as 18th man on NZL 92 today. Famed for her solo races around the world MacArthur said she was impressed with the team work that an America's Cup syndicate requires.
"These people devote years of their lives with the only goal of winning the America 's Cup, and they work many hours for very long."
As 18th person, MacArthur was not allowed to speak to the team during the race and giving any input is banned by the rules.
"That will be very difficult," she said before the race.
"I'm used to sailing solo and doing everything by myself. Now I'll be sailing with 17 other people and I won't be able to do anything."
In other matches of interest BMW Oracle Racing beat Areva Challenge by 1 minute 28s. Luna Rossa beat +39 by 1 minute 04s
Desafio Espanol beat Mascalzone Latino in their rematch by 35 seconds. The Spanish now look set to claim the fourth semifinal spot.
Four flights of round robin two remain to be sailed. Flight eight will be sailed tonight and challengers will meet to discuss sailing two flights on Monday and one on Tuesday if the weather makes it necessary.
With two more points earned, NZL 92 retained its third place on the leader board. With 30 points, NZL 92 is one point behind joint leaders Luna Rossa and BMW Oracle. Fourth in the rankings is Desafio Espanol on 25 points.
Team New Zealand face China Team tonight. The forecast is for a south-east breeze 9 - 12 knots.
