Oracle Racing remains on top at day two of RC44 Austria Cup at Lake Traunsee
The consistency of Oracle Racing has brought her on top position yet again at the end of the second day of the fleet racing at RC44 Austria Cup 2011, taking place at the Lake Traunsee.
The Russian Katusha, second-placed on day one, dropped down to fourth place after a tussling opening race, while Team Aqua moved up at the second position behind Oracle Racing.
On the second day of the event, only seven boats could finish within the time limit after a tough initial race. Although Oracle Racing crossed the finish line with eighth position, the team earned nine points along with Puerto Calero, Nika, Ceeref, Peninsula
Petroleum and Katusha.
Oracle Racing tactician, Russell Coutts explained, “The first race was very tough and we didn't have such a good start to the day. If you finish more than 10 minutes behind, you don't score and that’s what happened to us.”
Coutts praised Steve Howe, who is famous for competing in the Farr 40 and TP52 circuits.
“A little bit of familiarity with the conditions helps and we've got some good starts which has helped, Steve doing great he's got a good feel for the boat,” he added.
Peter Reggio, the Race Officer, got the teams on the race course after waiting for the wind for two hours to fill back in. Oracle Racing got a five-point cushion over the second placed, Team Aqua, as they slotted in the first and second race with their outstanding
form.
Team Aqua, skippered by Chris Bakes, got two first positions and a fourth to finish the second day brilliantly. Cameron Appleton had a fine day as the tactician of the Team Aqua.
Bakes explained, “We did a good job in the first race and just pulled off a win after being comfortable for a while and then the rest of the day we were just solid. I think Chris is really pleased, he did a great job. We haven't really tested the boat throughout
the wind range yet and this afternoon was the windiest we've sailed it so were just figuring out where our setting needs to be.”
The teams along with the race officer, Peter Reggio, are hoping for an easy third day ahead as the event has only two days remaining.
Tags: