Campaign Ends

Team New Zealand's campaign to bring the Auld Mug, The America's Cup and end Alinghi's strong hold has now come to an end with the Swiss taking the final race to retain the cup.

It was an amazing race with ETNZ coming down starboard opting to take the left side of the course and a great start by Barker taking the line first. Alinghi were on us the entire time and we were able to capitalise on the first cross where the Swiss covered too well and rounded the top mark ahead only just. The downwind leg was great sailing where we overtook the swiss and rounded the bottom mark in advance taking the left mark and taking the left side of the course once again which would later prove their undoing, Alinghi took the right to obtain starborad advantage. Nearing the top mark, Disaster struck, Butterworth and Baird pointed their bow towards ETNZs stern meaning that the next tack would force a penalty and that is where we fell and the faces of those surrounding me at the Halsey Street shed said it all.

Alinghi having won the advantage to round the top mark then decided to push us out further prior to rounding the mark. Downwind, we needed a miracle and surprisingly we got it towards the finish line. ETNZ still with a penalty turn ran into luck when the winds shifted and Alinghi messed up their change over and ETNZ having forseen the change. Alinghi's spinnekar then dropped into the water giving us a few meters advantage, then the penalty turn came and the Swiss started to pick up pace. The whole shed full of TNZ supporters rose to their feets jumping and screaming but alas, with a one second delta we came so far only to fall so short.

Some of the most thrilling and exciting match racing since the time in the early 80's off Kookaburra's triumphant win against the American's in San Diago.

The Governement has already put $10m towards the next challenge, we need deep pockets this time so we need the support of all Kiwi's to get behind our boy's, stand true, remain loyal, keep your blood black and your spirits high as it's far from over yet.

For now, let's welcome our boy's home