By JULIE ASH
Oracle BMW Racing helmsman Peter Holmberg celebrated his 42nd birthday in style today, guiding his team to their second convincing victory.
After outclassing Prada in their first match, Oracle made light work of the second Italian Challenge, Mascalzone Latino.
Two minutes after USA76 crossed the start line, Oracle chief executive officer Larry Ellison took the helm.
At the first windward mark the San Francisco-based syndicate were 54s ahead of the Italians.
With Paolo Cian at the helm, Mascalzone gained 7s on Oracle by the first leeward mark to reduce the deficit to 47s.
But Oracle once again showed their strength to lead the Italians by 1m 15s at the second windward mark, then by 1m 1s at the second leeward mark and 2m at the third windward mark.
Oracle won by 2m 3s. They are scheduled to have the bye in tomorrow's racing.
"Our team communication was a positive standout on the day, as it ensured we were always at our target boat speed," said Oracle afterguard member Peter Holmberg.
"Both John Cutler and Eric Doyle also did a great job picking the unpredictable wind shifts in their respective roles of tactician and strategist," said Holmberg.
"Overall we have our goals set and the team worked well."
Winds: S 12-15 knots
Winning margin: 02.03
nzherald.co.nz/americascup
Racing schedule, results and standings
Second win for Oracle, second loss for Mascalzone
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