Yachting: Team NZ pushed into second

Italy's Luna Rossa edged out Team New Zealand by five points to claim the Extreme 40 Series for America's Cup yachts in Qingdao, China.

The Italians sealed their win by taking out the final double points race this morning (NZT) to move into second in the overall standings.

The event was highlighted by a chaotic third day when four yachts capsized and two collided where winds gusted up to 30 knots.

Skipper Dean Barker said Team New Zealand were happy enough with their podium finish after a poor fourth day in the five-day event.

"The last few days the weather has been difficult but you know we have to be prepared for the difficult conditions. Realistically five boats were still in a position to win the event this morning. We had a couple of shockers yesterday but all in all it went pretty well so I'm very satisfied," he said.

Glenn Ashby, Jeremy Lomas and Richard Meacham were aboard the Team New Zealand entry with Barker.

Results: Luna Rossa (Italy) 227 points 1, Team New Zealand (New Zealand) 222 2, Groupe Edmond de Rothschild (France) 214 3, Red Bull Extreme Sailing (Austria) 200 4, Alinghi (Switzerland) 198 5, Artemis Racing (Sweden) 174 6, The Wave (Oman) 150 7, Team Extreme (Europe) 141 8, Oman Air (Oman) 137 9, Niceforyou (Italy) 122 10, Team GAC Pindar (Great Britain) 64 11.

Overall standings after two events: Groupe Edmond de Rothschild, 20 points 1, Luna Rossa, 18 2, Emirates Team New Zealand, 18 3, Artemis Racing, 16 4, Red Bull Extreme Sailing, 15 5, Alinghi, 13 6, The Wave, Muscat, 10 7, Team Extreme, 7 8, Oman Air, 7 9, Niceforyou, 4 10, Team GAC Pindar, 2 11.

- NZPA