American Magic’s Patriot returned to the water.
The Patriot, which was severely damaged during a spectacular rollover, is back in the water in time for this weekend’s Prada Cup semi-finals against Luna Rossa.
The team has repaired the hole in the hull with the help of the Emirates Team New Zealand boat builders
“It has been really impressive to see our team and the support we have received from the NZ team and you know it would not have happened without him. But what reminds us is what the defender has done for us; what they have helped us achieve, because without them it certainly would not have happened. In a situation of manpower and hours they certainly bailed us out. I have nothing but a big thank you to the New Zealand team for what they did, ”said American Magic captain Terry Hutchinson.
The band-aid graphic with the three flags covering the repair is said to be an acknowledgment of the invaluable help received from each of the other three unions.
American Magic and Luna Rossa will meet in a best-of-seven series starting Friday, with the winner taking on Ineos Team UK in the Prada Cup final in mid-February. The winner will then race with Emirates Team New Zealand for the America’s Cup.
