NEW YORK – June 20, 2019: The Australia SailGP Team has touched down in the city of New York for the next edition of the exciting new global sailing series, SailGP, taking place June 21-22 (June 22-23 AEST) on the Hudson River.
This marks the third event for the hydro foiling F50 league and second event within the United States, yet the first-time New Yorkers will get to experience this thrilling championship league. After two impressive back-to-back wins in Sydney and San Francisco, Australia SailGP Team heads into this event with only one goal in mind: to keep their name at the top of the leaderboard.
While the iconic Manhattan skyline and Lady Liberty may offer exceptional scenery, this won't be an easy scenic cruise for Team Australia. Many members of Australia SailGP Team have competed on the Hudson in the past and know the unpredictable breeze rolling through a cityscape mixed with difficult currents mean any of the five other nations representing are capable of cracking into top spots.
“This area is a change for us, it has big buildings, and is shifty. Comes from the top [of the buildings], hits the water, and then is hard to predict, so lots of reactions are needed. Big currents too, so we really will see how it plays out. Don't have to overthink it, and just react as it comes. Worst would be for the team to get emotional, but they just need to focus on the present opportunities,” said Coach Philippe Presti.
The Official New York SailGP Practise Day scheduled for today's late afternoon (June 20) was canceled due to threatening thunder squalls. This time on water counted as 1 of 2 slated training days for Australia SailGP Team. Even though the team collectively only got an estimated 4.5 hours on the water, they used their precious moments effectively.
“To be honest, I feel like we got the best out of it, probably more so than other teams,” says a relaxed flight controller, Jason Waterhouse.
Longtime rival competitor, Japan SailGP Team's helm Nathan Outteridge, proved in San Francisco his team is nipping at Australia's heels, knocking the Aussies from the top of the leaderboard after Day 1 results. Australia SailGP Team's resilience and near perfection Day 2 finishes ultimately won out, yet Australia SailGP Team's helmsman, Tom Slingsby, is keeping a watchful eye on his worthy opponent.
As CEO, Slingsby took a different approach over his competitors, opting for longtime teammates, over credentials. “I decided to go for the experience. I've sailed with these boys for seven years. They [SailGP competitors] can't catch that seven years. By the time they do, we're at 15,” remarks helm, Tom Slingsby.
Racing will commence daily from 5 pm – 6 pm EST. The race village located at Brookfield Place in Battery Park City is open to the public and free of charge. Supporters back at home in Australia can watch all the action unfold on Kayo and Fox Sports
Coverage is shown locally:
LIVE both days on Kayo.Visit www.kayosports.com.au to sign up.
Saturday, June 22 on Fox Sports 507, 07:00 – 06:30 AEST
Sunday, June 23 on Fox Sports 506, 07:00 – 06:30 AEST
(check local listings).
SailGP App: Supplementary video and data; full race replay (24 hours post-event)
