The 34th America's Cup has just provided the most intriguing storyline in the event's 162-year history. After 16 wonderful races, Oracle Team USA and Emirates Team New Zealand are now in a virtual dogfight as both squad heads into the 14th day of racing.
Will it be the third America's Cup victory for Emirates Team New Zealand on the waters of San Francisco Bay or the biggest collapse in sailing history? This is the question that puzzles the minds of the members of Emirates Team New Zealand, who could have secured the Auld Mug last Thursday only to be foiled by Mother Nature's unpredictable weather and the unprecedented surge by Oracle Team USA.
For sailing fans, Oracle Team USA's climb from a 1-8 hole has been a remarkable story that may be remembered for a long time, no matter what happens in the next race. Oracle skipper Jimmy Spithill showed incredible will power to overcome great odds, encouraging his crew to push beyond their limits.
Of course, the American comeback would not be possible without the tactical minds of Olympic sailing legends Ben Ainslie and Tom Slingsby, who have stolen the show with their clever decision-making, particularly in the crucial stretches of the last five races.
"The AC72 is completely unique," Ainslie told the press following Oracle's win on race No. 16. "On the downwind legs the boat ahead a lot of times has the advantage in terms of controlling the opposition and the bad air, and tacking with these boats is a lot harder to keep a cover if they do a good job splitting tacks. It's very exciting."
Then again, Team New Zealand skipper Dean Barker remains optimistic of their chances to end their losing woes and put an end on this fascinating America's Cup duel. After all, the Kiwis just need one race to win it all, no matter how ugly it will be.
America's Cup Live Stream Information
Race No. 17 of America's Cup 2013 is scheduled to start at 4:15 p.m. EST / 1:15 p.m. PST. In case Oracle Team USA wins the initial race, racing will resume with race No.18 at 5:15 p.m. EST / 2:15 p.m. PST. Tuesday's weather forecast suggests strong winds between 17 to 20 knots range.
America's Cup races will be broadcasted live on NBC Sports starting 4 p.m. EST/ 1 p.m. PST while international followers can watch livestream coverage and replay of the races on America's Cup's official Youtube Channel.
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