60768    In the second round, however, everything will count on the result.

60769    Fortunately, areas that needed improvement were worked out in practice or during the IACC world championships held last year in October.

60770    Afterwards, all that awaits is the Louis Vuitton Challenger Cup Series race, of which only the winning yacht will advance to the America's Cup.

60771    Starting on the 14th, the Louis Vuitton Cup will continue for four calendar months.

60772    It will not be an easy competition, with opponents such as world champion One Australia and the previous 1992 skipper of the Nippon Challenge, Chris Dickson and his boat, the Tag Heuer Challenge.

60773    If Japan can overcome these obstacles and win the America's Cup in May, it will be the first time a country besides the US or Australia has taken home the Cup.

60774    For Japan and for the Nippon Challenge, the year for a historic challenge has arrived.

60775    Yachts cannot sail directly into the wind.

60776    Therefore, yachts sail in a zigzag fashion when moving windward, which is called "tacking."

60777    When the wind is coming from the ship's right side it is called a starboard tack, and when the wind is coming from the left it is called a port tack.

60778    In a match race, two boats compete, each repeatedly tacking aggressively.

60779    When a collision appears imminent, the boat on a starboard tack has the right of way, in accordance with seafaring rules.

60780    Opposite of a tack is when the boat changes direction, turning leeward.

60781    This sail is used when there is a tailwind.

60782    The material is light and thin, and billows out like a parachute opening sideways.