PRADA Cup Semi-Final Day 1: A perfect start for Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli
by Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli 28 Jan 2021 22:53 PST
29 January 2021
PRADA Cup Semi-Final Day 1 - Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli Team vs. New York Yacht Club American Magic © COR36 / Studio Borlenghi
With the start of the PRADA Cup semifinals in Auckland, Luna Rossa Prada Pirelli races against NYYC American Magic in order to gain access to the Finals against the British INEOS Team UK.
Both races were held on Course C in gusty south-westerly winds ranging from 17 to 20 knots.
Luna Rossa wins both races with a comfortable lead, optimizing on the pre-start phases that were further consolidated throughout the 8-leg trial, accumulating steady gains at each gate.
The day closed with both 4-lap races won, the first with a lead of 2:43 minutes and the second of 3:07 minutes.
Pietro Sibello, mainsail trimmer:
"It was a constructive day and we got to bring home the result we were looking for. We got good starts and stayed in control, got to the start line clean and fast in good speed right from the beginning. The conditions were not easy, the wind was strong and at times very gusty. We started off conservatively, trying not to risk in maneuvers and around the marks, except for one of the bottom rounds where one of the foils came out of the water and ventilated, but we were able to restart right away. We weren't satisfied with our performance in strong winds up to now and have worked hard to improve it, which gives us hope for the future. I am really happy for the team who has continued to give its best all at all times. There is still a long way to go, but this result really helps us to move forward positively."
Max Sirena, skipper and team director:
"It's been a good day for us. We sailed well, to expectation, so we're really glad. Both starts were really good and we hope to keep it that way during the next races. The wind conditions ranged from 18 to 26 knots and the boys did great job with the boat handling. We reached speeds that we hadn't seen yet, which means that on board everyone was fully concentrated. We're only half-way through and have only won two regattas. Tomorrow is an important day and we need to stay focused."