The organisers of the German Sailing
Grand Prix in Kiel did very well by running the
racing so close to the shores.
There were 35.000 happy spectators packed along
the coast line and the fights remained very exciting
from the start of each race to the finish.
BMW Oracle Racing won the first fleet race after
United Internet Team Germany dominated the early
stage. Team Shosholoza suffered a problem with the
jib right after the start and never managed to compensate
this early deficit.
In the first Match Race of the day, BMW Oracle beat
Shosholoza. Chris Dickson didn't take any risk at
the start and the South Africans took an early advantage.
But BMW Oracle with a clear speed edge passed the
colourful boat and finished first.
In the second Match Race United Internet Team Germany
won a true 'street fight' against BMW Oracle. Jesper
Bank took a lot of risk to compensate for a slower
speed and it finally paid. For tacking too close
in a desperate attempt to maintain a slim lead,
Jesper was penalised but he maintained the pressure
up and forced Chris to a double mistake at the windward
mark.
The Americans requested an inside overlap but that
was refused by the jury, then they hit the mark.
This resulted in a double penalty. When they finally
cleared their penalties, close to the finishing
line, United Internet Team Germany had already crossed
the line as a winner.
Another close duel between Shosholoza and United
Internet Team Germany took place in the third match
race. The German boat was trailing soon after the
start but managed to come back to take the South
Africans well pass the starboard lay line.
Jesper Bank rounded the mark ahead and extended
the lead to 140 meters to win easily. But the day
ended very good for the South African Team. After
the three match races the fleet race back into the
City of Kiel started and brought an exciting photo
finish! And Shosholoza won this spectacular race.
Results Day 1
Fleet race 1
1. USA 71 3 points
2. GER 72 (0'56'') 2 points
3. RSA 48 (1'45'') 1 point
Match races (6 points a win)
BMW Oracle beat Shosholoza (0'40'')
Team Germany beat BMW Oracle (1'29'')
Team Germany beat Shosholoza (0'27'')
Fleet race 2
1. RSA 48 3 points
2. USA 71 (0:04 Min) 2 points
3. GER 72 (0:24 Min) 1 point
