Team New Zealand are tantalisingly close to defending the America's Cup, and, if the wind blows, will get two more shots at it today.
A Team New Zealand fan at America's Cup Race Village in Auckland's viaduct yesterday. Photo: RNZ / Jogai Bhatt
Fans were left disappointed last night after the race that could have clinched it was postponed due to an inconsistent breeze.
The regatta is now six races to three in Team New Zealand's favour in the first to seven series.
With one hand on the Cup, race 10 was abandoned due to light and patchy winds. The crowd at Auckland's viaduct harbour groaned - but many said they'd be back today.
Fans left disappointed to be so close to the Cup - but they got it. Light winds don't make for good racing.
"I wanna see a race, I don't wanna see a slow race... I wanna see those boats go fast," one fan said.
Although they could not get both races run, fans were still left drained by the tension of the day.
"Exhausted, it's been an amazing couple of days. The races have been incredible," one said.
"The crowd down here have been awesome, absolutely awesome," said another.
"I can't get the shakes out of my hand... I'm way too excited."
Despite losing both of Monday's races, Luna Rossa fans turned out, front and centre at the main stage with horns and flags and a lot of energy. They're not going anywhere.
Team New Zealand came close to claiming victory. Photo: PHOTOSPORT
"Sad but I think we can win. We want to demonstrate our support for the team - we'll come back stronger," two fans said.
And predictions? "Mate, I don't know, you can't write off Jimmy Spithill.
"You can never rule out Luna Rossa - there's a reason they got this far."
Like a few people, Sue was already strategising how to get the afternoon off.
"I'm supposed to be at something for work but I'm framing the excuse now," she said.
"The rest of New Zealand should be stopping tomorrow to watch the racing anyway - we'll lead the way."
