Before the race began, The Netherlands had to retire, reducing the field to just five boats. After an 18-minute wait for the minimum 7-knot wind limit, the race finally got underway. Right from the start, there was drama as all teams except Sweden lost their foils due to the light winds. Additionally, the Canadians faced two boundary penalties just one minute before the race kicked off.
Australia were quickest off the mark, leading the pack by 60 metres, but their early success was short-lived as they fell off their foils once again due to the sluggish winds.
Sweden quickly took control, leading the fleet by a substantial 400-metre margin, with Spain close behind. By the first gate, only Sweden and Spain were able to stay on their foils, underscoring the challenging conditions that had the other teams struggling to keep up.
The wind’s inconsistency caused further setbacks, with Spain also falling off their foils halfway through the second leg. Sweden remained the only team airborne for a significant portion of the race, but their dominance faded as they, too, dropped off their foils just before the second gate.
For the spectators, it was a scene reminiscent of America’s Cup races of old, as the teams were left to sail without the advantage of foiling. Yet, amidst the struggle, Canada briefly found their rhythm, recovering from their penalties and reaching speeds five times faster than the leading boat, the Swedish. However, their hopes were dashed as they fell back off their foils, leaving Germany and Australia to seize the opportunity.
As the race was shortened to three legs due to the difficult conditions, it became clear that victory was within Spain’s grasp. Despite some close calls, including a dramatic nose tap, the Spanish team held their lead, crossing the finish line in 23 minutes and 35 seconds to the cheers of local fans. Spain’s win was well deserved after a persistent battle with the elements and their rivals.
The drama continued behind them as Canada managed to overtake Sweden for second place, a remarkable recovery considering their earlier struggles. Sweden followed closely, just eight seconds behind Canada, finishing third. Germany, who managed to get back on their foils in the final stages, finished fourth, and Australia, despite their strong start, ended in fifth place.
As the wind remained unpredictable, this race has highlighted the fine margins that separate success from failure in the Youth America’s Cup. For Spain, it was a great victory, and with three more races ahead today, the standings remain wide open.
