SAN FRANCISCO (AP) — Skipper Jimmy Spithill and Oracle Team USA remained alive in the America’s Cup by running their astonishing winning streak to six after forcing Emirates Team New Zealand into two penalties at the start of Race 17 on Tuesday.
Oracle Team USA, owned by software tycoon Larry Ellison, won its ninth race overall but trails the Kiwis 8-7 because it was docked two points for illegally modifying boats in warmup regattas.
Team New Zealand has been marooned on match point since Wednesday.
Spithill appeared in trouble just before the start but hooked behind the Kiwis into favored leeward position. The 72-foot catamarans touched as Oracle tactician Ben Ainslie yelled at the Kiwis to tack away. They collided again, with Ainslie gesturing angrily.
Team New Zealand sat dead in the water to clear the penalties as Oracle sped away.
Race 18 was scheduled for later Tuesday.
