Monday, May 9, 2016

Win in NYC Keeps New Zealand in America's Cup Lead

Emirates Team New Zealand snatched a dramatic victory on Sunday, in the latest battle to decide who'll face defending champions the US in next year's America's Cup yachting competition.

This weekend saw the contest return to its original home, New York City, for the first time since 1920 - as part of series of races that sees five teams vie for a spot in the main event in Bermuda next year.

After a tricky beginning when they earned a penalty for crossing the start line early, the Kiwis roared from last to first place, ahead of hosts Oracle Team USA, to take the regatta with 52 points.

Skipper Glenn Ashby said some skilful positioning meant they were able to ride a sudden breeze and roar to the finish line, giving onlookers a great spectacle: 

IN: That was our...
OUT: ...a show today
DUR: 17 seconds


ALT:

Skipper Glenn Ashby said the win was a team effort and they're feeling confident heading into the next race in Chicago in June:

IN: The boys did...
OUT: ....we're very happy 
DUR: 21 seconds


Oracle Team USA skipper Jimmy Spithill (PRON: Spitt-ull) said he was thrilled with the thousands who lined the banks of Lower Manhattan to watch the racing this weekend:

IN: I think after...
OUT: ...here again soon
DUR: 14 seconds 


It was a disappointing race for British team Landrover BAR though, who came in fifth - skipper Sir Ben Ainslie said the unpredictable winds on the Hudson were a challenge:

IN: It was very...
OUT: ....very very frustrating
DUR: 23 seconds