Scottie Milne was celebrating 32 years of marriage and a 15-second win by Emirates Team New Zealand at Shed 10 in Auckland yesterday morning.
He said the result was "nearly the best wedding anniversary present possible".
The tension in the venue was high and the fans nervousness was in contrast to the slick confidence of the New Zealand sailing team.
"It was like going to heaven without dying," said Mr Milne of Race 11.
He believes Team New Zealand's last heart-stopping race will result in victory.