Liberty (US 40)
Defender
ArchitectOlin Stephens
BuilderNevins, City Island, Bronx
OwnerHenry Sears syndicate
ClubNew York Yacht Club
SkipperDennis Conner
Type12 MJI
Length HT21.15 m
Draft2.73 m
Displacement28.35 tons
Sail area173 m²
Australia II (KA 6)
Challenger
ArchitectBen Lexcen
BuilderSteve Ward
OwnerAlan Bond syndicate
ClubRoyal Perth Yacht Club
SkipperJohn Bertrand
Type12 MJI
Length HT21.0 m
Draft2.76 m
Displacement27 tons
Sail area172 m²
The winner
Australia II faced protests from the Americans regarding compliance with the deed of gift rules, but was ultimately accepted as a challenger. Its wing keel was hidden during each haul-out to maintain suspense. During the first two races, Australia faced technical problems and was dominated by Liberty. It won the third race, then the fifth and sixth. The seventh was therefore decisive. On the penultimate leg, the tacks continued, but Australia maintained its lead by covering each of Liberty's tacks. On the final leg under spinnaker, it confirmed its lead and crossed the finish line with a 41-second lead. The cup had changed sides.
The loser
Liberty skippered by Dennis Conner is a good boat that easily wins the American trials against Courageous and Defender. But Australia II is faster in the final races and wins 4-3.