New York was full of surprises, from Germany colliding with Australia in practice racing to home team the United States finishing last for the third consecutive event. We round up five moments you might have missed from Season 4’s visit to New York.
Germany hits Australia in practice racing
It was a rough start to the event for Erik Heil’s Germany, which was served a four point penalty for hitting Australia in practice. This meant the Germans started New York on -4 points, as well as suffering a two point deduction to its overall season score. Despite executing improved starts, the team picked up a low 8-9-7-8 race record - but still managed to beat the United States to finish the event in ninth.
Marcus Hansen slips off the New Zealand F50
A shocking moment unfolded on the New Zealand F50 on Race Day 1, when grinder Marcus Hansen was seen slipping off the boat after losing his balance during a maneuver. Thankfully, Hansen’s safety tether caught him and he was able to quickly climb back on board.
Switzerland wins Fleet Race 2
It was an improved showing for Switzerland, currently steered by interim driver Nathan Outteridge, which rose to the top of the fleet to win the second fleet race. It marked Switzerland’s third fleet race of the season so far, but proved short lived, with the Swiss finishing the event in sixth overall.
The United States struggle
It was another difficult event for Taylor Canfield’s United States, which struggled at the back of the fleet throughout. The team picked up 10-10-10-9 race results to finish in 10th, marking their third consecutive last place finish and even coming behind Germany, which began the event on -4 points.
New Zealand picks up 5th event win
Consistent fleet racing saw the Kiwis proceed into the winner-takes-all event Final against Canada and Emirates GBR. But a stunning start by Peter Burling’s team made them impossible to catch, and they swept across the finish line to claim their fifth event title this season and instant qualification into San Francisco’s $2 million Grand Final.
