In a thrilling showdown between Emirates Team New Zealand and Alinghi Red Bull Racing, the Kiwis once again proved their dominance in the fourth race of the day. Both teams appeared strong as they lined up, with many wondering if New Zealand would maintain their undefeated streak in the AC37.
At 1:51am New Zealand time, the race began with the Swiss team taking an early lead. However, it wasn’t long before Team NZ surged ahead, gaining a 30-metre advantage in the first leg. The competition remained close, with both boats racing in parallel, but by the end of the first leg, New Zealand had extended their lead to over 100 metres.
Despite the Swiss team’s best efforts to close the gap, they were unable to catch up. Four minutes into the race, Team NZ rounded the first mark, with the Swiss following 12 seconds later. By this point, the Kiwis had established a commanding 300-metre lead, which they continued to build on as the race progressed.
At the eight-minute mark, New Zealand entered gate 2, starting leg 3 with a 400-metre lead. Although both teams were maintaining similar speeds, the wind had begun to soften, giving New Zealand a slight edge as they continued to pull away.
Twelve minutes into the race, Team NZ started leg 4, now a full 700 metres ahead of the Swiss. The Kiwis’ superior performance downwind was evident as they continued to widen the gap. By the time they reached gate 4 at the 16-minute mark, the Swiss were nowhere to be seen, trailing 52 seconds behind.
As the race neared its conclusion, Team NZ rounded the final gate and entered the last lap at the 20-minute mark. The Swiss, now over a minute behind, were still struggling to keep up. By the time New Zealand approached the finish line at 22 minutes and 30 seconds, the Swiss had only just entered the last leg.
In the end, Emirates Team New Zealand crossed the finish line, securing another impressive victory. The Swiss team followed 1 minute and 15 seconds later, marking a disappointing performance against the undefeated Kiwis. This race further solidifies Team NZ’s dominance in the AC37, as they continue to remain unbeaten.
