Boat of US challenger repaired and back on the water
YACHTING
AUCKLAND: Challenger American Magic returned its racing yacht Patriot to the water yesterday, just 10 days after a dramatic capsize threatened to ends its involvement in the America’s Cup.
Patriot was slowly lowered into the water at the team’s Auckland base to begin systems checks, the first step to a return to racing.
The crew later got time on course C on the Waitemata Harbour.
Patriot sported a new emblem over the area of the bow which had been holed, bearing the Italian, British and New Zealand flags and the message: ‘‘thankyou’’.
The 22.8m yacht has to pass inspection by the cup measurement committee in order to race against Italian challenger Luna Rossa in the best ofseven race challenger series semifinals which begin tomorrow.
The series winner will progress to the Prada Cup final in which it will meet Britain's Ineos Team UK.
The loser will be out of the regatta.
American Magic’s shore team, assisted by boat builders from America’s Cupholder Team New Zealand, worked around the clock since the capsize occurred to repair extensive damage.
The United States yacht sustained internal and external damage and its complex electronic systems had to be replaced.
The achievement of the American syndicate in repairing Patriot on such a tight deadline has amazed rival teams.
Patriot came close to sinking and was saved only by the swift response of the US team and rivals who rushed to its assistance. — AAP