(BMW-Oracle Racing photo)
The Anacortes-built BMW-Oracle Racing trimaran won the first race in the America's Cup in Valencia, Spain, beating the Swiss boat Alinghi by more than 15 minutes over the 40 mile course.
Racing was postponed for four and a half hours before Principal Race Officer Harold Bennett gave the start signal in a gentle 4 to 5 knot southerly wind.
After both boats entered the start box, USA skipper James Spithill was able to speed deep into the box on starboard tack, preventing Alinghi – the give way boat –from crossing ahead. As the boats dialled-up into the wind, the Umpires judged Alinghi hadn’t done enough to keep clear and penalised the Swiss team.
Alinghi, however, made a good recovery. With both teams to windward of the start line, the Swiss made a quick return to start ahead. In fact, by the time USA crossed the starting line, it was over 600-meters behind Alinghi.
But then USA started to simply outpace Alinghi by sailing higher (closer to the wind) and slightly faster. The 600-meter deficit was soon erased, and USA went on to lead by 3:21 around the top mark.
Downwind, the advantage to the American boat was even more pronounced. USA continued to add to its lead all the way to the finish line.
The next race is set for 1am, Pacific Time, Sunday morning.