Red Bull Youth America's Cup - The Force tied for first

by Vince Casalaina on 4 Sep 2013

The Force - 2013 Red Bull Youth America’s Cup Balazs Gardi / Red Bull Content Pool

Following two days of racing in the Red Bull Youth America’s Cup, the American Youth Sailing Force, ‘The Force’, showed they have the skill and coolness under fire needed to win this regatta. Facing an aggressive fleet of international youth sailors, a strong showing in day-two pushed The Force into a tie for first place with New Zealand’s Full Metal Jacket team.

Race one opened up with a scripted start when The Force aimed at the committee boat end of the starting line and crossed right at the gun with good speed and a clear lane to sail in. At the first mark they rounded in first and never looked back. 'It was really great to get a win in the first race. It felt really great for our team and an excellent start to the regatta,' according to skipper, Michael Menninger. 'I think it’s going to be an important confidence builder for us in the coming days.'

Race three proved that a strong start coupled with consistent maneuvers is the key to placing well in these hard fought races. The Force took third place in that race and worked back from a significant deficit in race four to place fifth. Menninger relates, ' We are really happy with our boat speed and the way we are sailing around the racecourse right now. So, we continue to have fun and sail hard.'

Overall, The Force has earned 28 points and has made it clear that you don’t need to win every race to win this regatta.

Racing continues Sept. 3 and 4 with two races each day. There’s plenty of racing to come. All of the international teams competing in the Red Bull Youth America’s Cup Championship know consistency and placing near the top of the fleet will be enough.

*Due to redress, New Zealand is two points American Youth Sailing Force
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