SailGP Auckland Tickets: The Perfect Christmas Gift!
Looking for an unforgettable present? Limited tickets remain for the SailGP Auckland event, taking place on Waitematā Harbour from January 18-19, 2024. Watch the world’s best sailors battle it out in high-speed racing from the spectacular Waterfront Grandstand. Give the gift of adrenaline-filled excitement this Christmas—grab your tickets now before they’re gone!
Co-CEO and helmsman of the New Zealand team, Peter Burling, expressed his anticipation: “We can’t wait to race in front of a home crowd this January. Waitematā Harbour is a special place for us, and the roar of Kiwi fans in the Race Stadium will be incredible. We’re determined to secure a win for the fans!”
The Black Foils’ winning formula
The Black Foils dominated the season opener in Dubai, delivering a stellar performance led by Co-CEOs Peter Burling (Driver) and Blair Tuke (Wing Trimmer). Yet, as the team gears up for their home event in Auckland, my eyes are turning to Flight Controller, Leo Takahashi, who might just be the team’s silver bullet. It is well-acknowledged that the flight controller role is considered one of the most high pressure roles on board the boat.
Leo Takahashi’s rise in the ranks has been nothing short of impressive. Tasked with the highly demanding role of controlling the boat’s flight, Takahashi’s precision and decision-making in Dubai proved critical. Along with the rest of his team, his race-reading abilities enabled the team to capitalise on critical opportunities, and outmanoeuvre competitors.
While big names like Burling and Tuke drew the spotlight, Takahashi quietly delivered the metrics that mattered most.
Decoding the Dubai dominance
Data from Oracle Insights reveals that the Black Foils excelled in turning adversity into opportunity. Despite an average Mark 1 position of 6.2, they finished with the fleet’s highest average placing of 3.2—thanks to unparalleled mid-race tactics and speed management. The team’s average ride height of 886mm and fly time of 41.4% highlighted their technical superiority, allowing them to maximise speed while minimising drag.
Key to these successes was Takahashi’s ability to keep the boat flying consistently, even in turbulent conditions. The Black Foils achieved an average speed of 36.4 km/h and a top speed of 55.5 km/h during the event-deciding final, often sailing the shortest distances—proving their efficiency.
Key metrics from Dubai
- Fastest Average Speeds: Spain led with 26.5 km/h, while Red Bull Italy trailed at 21.5 km/h.
- Shortest Distance Sailed: Spain covered 23.37 km, while Canada sailed the furthest at 28.16 km.
- Top Foiling Performance: New Zealand had the highest fly time (41.4%) and average ride height (44.4 cm).
- Most Overtakes: New Zealand performed 17 overtakes, showcasing superior mid-race tactics.
Tactical brilliance and Takahashi’s impact
The Dubai final showcased the strategic strength in the fleet, with New Zealand, Emirates GBR, and the United States vying for victory. While the U.S. timed its start to perfection, it was New Zealand’s superior starting speed of 44.7 km/h that proved decisive. At Gate 4, a critical manoeuvre—guided by Takahashi’s adjustments—saw the Black Foils seize the lead, sailing the shortest distance (6.5 km) and maintaining the highest flight time (81%).
Takahashi’s input was especially evident in the team’s overtaking prowess. His precise adjustments kept the boat stable and fast, allowing the team to outmanoeuvre rivals even in tight spots.
Improving upon the America’s Cup
Although Takahashi sailed for the New Zealand Youth America’s Cup team, which did not do as well as I had hoped, this opportunity with the Black Foils will provide the grounds for gaining more experience and skills. In the SailGP Dubai event racing he showed his adaptability, fresh energy and a sharp analytical mind.
Co-CEO Blair Tuke acknowledges Takahashi’s value: “Leo’s contributions go far beyond what the stats show. His calm under pressure and ability to keep us flying in tricky conditions have been game-changing.”
Looking ahead to Auckland
As SailGP heads to Auckland, the pressure is on. Racing in front of a home crowd is both a privilege and a challenge, but the Black Foils seem more than ready. With the roar of Kiwi fans behind them and Takahashi’s steady hand guiding their flight, New Zealand is poised to deliver another thrilling performance.
Get ready, Auckland—SailGP is coming home, and the Black Foils are determined to shine.
