Speculation mounts over the causes of Emirates Team New Zealand’s epic capsize this morning during an America's Cup practice session in Auckland.
All four teams were out getting in a few more training laps ahead of the Prada Cup Challenger Series which starts this Friday 15th January.
According to ETNZ: “We got a little too high in the gybe and stopped pretty quick. Full credit to the design of these boats that they are still in one piece.
“We’ve talked about this a lot, and practised it. The boat’s upright and should be ready to sail again. “Obviously the capsize wasn’t ideal, but it’s a fantastic opportunity to really push ourselves.”
Some commentators, however, are blaming the helicopter seen overhead, and seemingly creating a downdraft.
“Those guys should have kept well away,” says one. “Too eager for a shot and careless of the guys beneath them.”
“Pushing the limits something has to give, and at speed an interesting result when the downdraft of the chopper is ever slightly too close,” agrees another. “Lesson learned the hard way! More airspace needed fellas!”
