Broken Mast, Broken Heart
by Fiona McIlroy on 28 Feb 2003
Dismasted Team NZ - America's Cup Race 4 SW
The realisation that Team New Zealand will not defend the America's Cup came crashing down around them on Friday, as they were forced to retire from America's Cup race four after breaking their mast 57 minutes after the start.
NZL82's mast snapped in half just above the first spreader after crashing through two waves in the volatile seas of the second upwind beat.
The crew had trailed Alinghi from Switzerland around the first two marks but were by no means out of the race.
The serious gear breakage brought back memories of race one, when Team New Zealand suffered a trifecta of problems including a broken boom, ripped headsail and about eight tonnes of excess water on board.
They were forced to retire from that race as well, and the disaster means Alinghi from Switzerland now leads the series 4-0.
In accordance with the rules Team New Zealand will have to race again on Saturday, which means there is a hectic night ahead for the shore crew.
If Alinghi are successful again on Saturday, the Auld Mug will travel to Europe for the first time since 1851.
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