At the Cusp of Victory, American Magic Quantum Racing Shines on Day 4 of the Galicia 52 Super Series Royal Cup

Day 4 of the Galicia 52 Super Series Royal Cup brought about thrilling turns on the blue waters as American Magic Quantum Racing leapt forward in the competition. Guided by Terry Hutchinson and helmed by Harry Melges IV, the US-flagged team capitalized on the 11-14kts winds to consolidate their leading position. Despite a slightly mixed performance, with a 7th and 3rd place finish, their sustained overall performance promises an imminent victory, their first 52 SUPER SERIES regatta win since 2022.

Meanwhile, the competition surged behind them. After a standout performance, boasting a 1st and 2nd place finish, Andrea Lacorte’s Italian Alkedo Vitamina climbed to second overall. A fine example of the racing team’s resilience and adaptability, Alkedo Vitamina capitalized on the rapidly changing wind and weather conditions, shaping the race-day landscape.

The first race saw the brilliance of Takashi Okura’s Sled, closely followed by Alkedo and Paprec. Showing superior adaptability, Alkedo managed to lead at the leeward gate, leaving American Magic Quantum Racing grappling with Platoon Aviation for the seventh and eighth positions.

Provezza, helmed by John Cutler, shook up the second race. After getting the best of the first upwind; they managed to maintain a close lead against the surging Alkedo. Despite this, Provezza’s difficulty in capturing the shift and stronger breeze lost them their lead. This resulted in a riveting race, ultimately won by Provezza, their first race win of the season.

As they approach the final racing day, the American Magic Quantum Racing Team has the Royal Cup within their grasp with a modest performance being enough for them to secure victory. With just their second 52 Super Series under their belt, the second-place Italian team, Alkedo, also delivered a striking performance. This year’s Galicia 52 Super Series Royal Cup demonstrated the epitome of strategic sailing, where the slightest shift on the leaderboard was determined by seamless adaptation to every gust and wave.