Is it a rematch of 2013 when the Kiwis were in the lead and ORACLE came from behind to win the 34th America’s Cup? Tomorrow, Sat., June 17, Emirates Team New Zealand and Defender ORACLE TEAM USA , hit the marine

New Zealand’s helmsman Peter Burling Photo/RIcardo Pinto

battlefield just as they did in 2013. But this time, New Zealand’s helmsman Peter Burling said in a press conference today, “We are a lot stronger team than in 2013. I’m sure it’s going to be one helluva battle out there on the water.  That’s why we are here.”

During the Semi Finals and Finals the last few weeks, ORACLE has been sitting on the sideline. Are they now at a disadvantage since they weren’t racing? Jimmy Spithill, USA’s helmsman says not. “We’ve been watching and learning from these guys. There’s a reason these two teams are here. The teams are at a very high level.”

Peter wants to bring The Cup back home to New Zealand and says the fans are inspiring them to keep pushing forward. When asked what winning the America’s Cup meant to him, Jimmy said, “It’s a passion and somewhat of an obsession. It is something that is very very difficult  to do, but really has one of those awards you cannot buy. There are no shortcuts.” ORACLE TEAM USA enter the Match with one point from their win of the America’s Cup Qualifiers.

Winds are predicted to be between 9 and 12 knots tomorrow. But all that can change. Both teams will meet with their Meteorologists and weather teams to decide which boards they will use. “We’re excited that there will be a breeze tomorrow,” comments Peter. Several days in the last few weeks the races were called off due to very little wind. “But,” continues Peter, “It’s all about who wins the last race, not the first one!”

Jimmy Spithill ORACLE TEAM USA helmsman Photo/RIcardo Pinto

Jimmy thanked the Bermudans for their hospitality since they arrived and all the USA fans. He felt they had an advantage because of all this support. “Lots of anticipation. Lots of excitement. We are ready!”

Here’s the schedule:

  • Sat., June 17 – 1-2:30pm EDT, 10-11:30am PDT – NBC
  • Sun., June 18 – 1-3pm EDT, 10am-12pm PDT – NBC
  • Sat., June 24 – 1-2:30pm EDT, 10-11:30am PDT – NBC
  • Sun., June 25 – 1-3pm EDT, 10am-12pm PDT – NBC
  • Mon., June 26 – 1-3pm EDT, 10am-12pm PDT – NBCSN*
  • Tues., June 27 – 1-3pm EDT, 10am-12pm PDT – NBCSN*

*if needed

Which team are you supporting?

Photo/Ricardo Pinto

Photo/Sam Greenfield ORACLE TEAM USA