[Archives 2]

AUCKLAND, NEW ZEALAND -- "This was a big win for Stars & Stripes," said a jubilant Ken Read, helmsman for Team Dennis Conner. "Beating Young America after losing three straight races and then breaking our boat really got our team back on the right track for a berth in the Semi Finals."

"However, we would not have had the chance to get these nine points if it had not been for the extraordinary effort of our boat-building team," Read continued. "The lights have been on in the shed all night long for the last three nights as these magicians did everything necessary to allow us to go racing today. This win belongs to them"

While none of the Stars & Stripes sailing team thought their race against Young America would be easy, this one was off the charts. The wind ranged from 4 - 20 knots, with huge wind shifts that turned weather legs into runs, and visa versa. Still Stars & Stripes led at every mark and had a 27-second edge at the finish line.

The 17th person for today's race was Christine Fletcher, mayor of Auckland.  "It was wonderful to have Christine sail on board Stars & Stripes today," said Dennis Conner. "To me, she represents Auckland and all they have done for the America's Cup. It's nice to be able to repay her for all the wonderful hospitality."

Tomorrow Stars & Stripes meets the French Le Defi BTT syndicate.

Standings
1	AmericaOne	20-6	81
2	Nippon	17-8	74.5
3	America True	18-7	74
4	Prada	22-3	73
5	Stars & Stripes	15-10	54.5
6	Spain	11-15	44
7	Young America	14-11	42
8	Abracadabra	9-17	34
9	Le Defi BTT	7-17	32
10	Young Australia	4-21	18
11	FAST 2000	2-24	8

 

Victories are worth one point each in Round One, four points in Round Two and nine points in Round Three.


For additional information:
Tom Leweck, Team Dennis Conner
TEL:  029 992-013
FAX: 64 9 9799 701
Team Dennis Conner website: http://www.stars-stripes.com/