Day 3

36th America’s Cup – The Round Robins Day 3

INEOS TEAM UK

I have always been drawn to the highs and lows of sport.

I had the fortune of being right in the action due to my day-to-day role within the Performance Team. During the races I was busy with that job, I’d grab the camera and snap a few shots as and when I could.

A tumultuous journey of emotion as after 3 years of hard work the team started the competition horribly, losing every race during the Christmas Regatta in December 2020.

The next stage was the round robins, every team raced each other three times, with the exception of the New Zealand boat who, as the defender had already qualified for the final.

Three races and three wins. The momentum was with us and we always favoured the heavier conditions due on the 17th of January. With two races planned, we would race the Italian syndicate first and then watch the Italians race American Magic.

Even off the start line, the very shifty winds on the course saw a number of lead changes, sensational tactical calls from Giles Scott sent the team ahead again with an 18-second race win. 4-0 

Freddie Carr celebrates the race win. It’s a big day out on the water for the watt farmers with 13 tacks and 9 gybes within the 27-minute race.

Giles Scott in post-race debrief with coach Rob Wilson (out of shot)

The team talks to the performance support boat as American Magic capsizes in their race.

Shore support Hendo gets on the radio to send help. When a crisis like a capsize happens within the America’s cup world, the badge on the jacket doesn’t matter.

Jeff Causey responds to the radio call with a look of concern. Every team would end up sending support vessels to aid the recovery of American Magic.

The mood changes as we begin to prepare to get back to shore.

Hendo out in the rain. We may be 4-0 up but there is a greater concern. 

Watch the American Magic Capsize