GBR lose, Americans dominate

On day seven of the Louis Vuitton Cup's first round robin

Oracle dominate Le Defi

Starting from the port end of the line, Le Défi steered by Luc Pillot went straight in to a 'dial up' 15 seconds after the preparatory signal. Oracle BMW (USA 76) responded by 'parking alongside' the French boat.

Both boats held their position for nearly three minutes, including sailing backwards for over two minutes. USA 76 then led towards the Committee Boat and 'nailed' the start, to weather of Le Défi, crossing the line fours seconds ahead.

Oracle BMW helmsman Peter Holmberg soon took control up the first beat and could have crossed ahead on the first 'cross' after 40 seconds. Instead Holmberg opted to tack just ahead of the French boat to 'bounce' them left, allowing the American boat to protect the right side of the race track. USA 76 soon extended with a combination of better boat speed and was able to pick the shifts from ahead to quickly build up an unassailable lead.