Team New Zealand have shocked America's Cup holders Oracle Team USA, winning a perfect two from two on the opening day of racing.
The day didn't start out well for Jimmy Spithill and Team Oracle USA after they crossed the line early which saw Team NZ gifted a two boat-length lead. That soon turned into a 150m lead as they saw their boat really get to work.
After the start, Team NZ never looked like losing the first race but they did slow in the sixth leg, which meant a narrower win than what it should have been.
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Team NZ entered the starting box first in the second leg and helmsman Peter Burling positioned the boat perfectly for the start, getting the jump on Oracle.
Once again, the speed of the boat told the tale and they streaked out to a whopping 600 metre lead.
However, in the fourth leg of the race, a stunning windshift from Oracle saw them close the gap to just one metre.
Team New Zealand managed to hold on following a failed protest from Oracle.
A bad gybe from the favourites then saw New Zealand streak out into the lead, one which would not be bettered.
The numbers favoured Team New Zealand throughout the afternoon and they were reflected in the final results, with the Kiwis finished 30 seconds ahead of Oracle in the first race and one minute 28 seconds in the second.
The conditions suited the Kiwis with the wind at the lower end of the range for sailing and they're looking to be similar on Monday (NZT).
Newshub.
