Auckland, NZ -- The Stars & Stripes sailing team will go home tonight with one win under their belt and some additional
confidence before their second race of the Semi-Final Round of the Louis Vuitton Cup tomorrow against the Italian syndicate, Prada Challenge.After an even start, both boats sailed for 5 minutes
on starboard tack with Stars & Stripes having a very small edge. When the wind went left, Stars & Stripes was on the left and picked up a 2-boatlength advantage. "It was nice to get the
first shift which often makes the difference in a race," said Helmsman Ken Read.
Stars & Stripes was able to work the shifts after getting into the lead and sailed to a :49 second
advantage over the Japanese at the first mark. The lead remained relatively the same for the balance of the race with Stars & Stripes winning by :55 seconds. Dennis thought there might have
been "divine intervention," keeping in mind Stars & Stripes' lucky number, 55!
For more information contact:
Veronica Cahill
Media Relations
Team Dennis Conner
Sailing Compound: 64-09-9799-700
Mobile Phone: 029-99-2013
