Ben Ainslie and his team faced cold salt waters on the first day of competition of the America’s Cup World Series that is taking place this weekend in Japan.

The teams started off today after having undergone practice races on Friday. This team definitely has all the eyes on them as they are the leading team who are competing in this phase in Japan. It is taking place this weekend after which the competition will move to the warmer waters of Bermuda. The catamaran of Ben’s team had their rigging as well as hulls creaking and groaning under the strain of the wing sails which are about as big as 737 aircraft. The coach has been putting the crew through a gut buster routine which includes periods of intense concentration and exertion as well as making adjustments frequently as per the direction and strength of the winds and currents.

The “cat” as the boat is affectionately called, is lifted on the hydrofoils as the sailors go through their moves. They are kept busy as they run across the trampoline and bind the same with the hulls. They are often found suspended perilously over the edge and their red helmets are only visible in the mists of the waters. Ben admitted that the first day race had been exhilarating as they fly on the water, which was akin to taking off on a flight. Though it took a lot of focus and concentration the team fought to keep Rita, their Olympian boat, on the waters and ahead of the competitors. This boat is part of the eighty million pound investment of the country to keep the team on the winning front. It is hopeful that they will bring back the trophy that has eluded the country for a long time.