The American Magic crew are safe and sound, but the multi-million dollar flying monohull suffered heavy damage in Auckland Bay.
The vagaries of the weather in Auckland caused a spectacular accident on Sunday, on the third day of the Prada Cup, when the American challenge, American Magic, capsized as it sought its first victory in these regattas. Then ahead of Luna Rossa, the American boat overturned before crossing the finish line, throwing its crew into the water. All crew members are unharmed, but the multi-million dollar yacht appeared to be badly damaged and flotation devices were needed to prevent it from sinking.
The three American, Italian and British contenders began on Friday six weeks of rounds in the water under the New Zealand summer sun. The winner of these regattas will win the right to challenge Emirates Team New Zealand from March 6 to 21, the defender of the America’s Cup.
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As the wind continued to test the skippers, the undefeated British INEOS Team UK crew, for their part, needed two attempts to beat the Italian challenge Luna Rossa, the first regatta having been called off after that the strong breeze has changed direction beyond the allowable limit. With four victories on the clock, INEOS Team UK is therefore still leading these regattas, ahead of Luna Rossa, two victories and American Magic, who has yet to score any points.
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