Italy won the Youth America's Cup Thursday, with a convincing victory over the United States. The final was held on the Mediterranean Sea near Barcelona.

This is the first of two regattas that will precede the America's Cup in October when New Zealand, the defending champions, will compete against either Britain or Italy to win the prized trophy.

The four-sailor team was ecstatic after crossing the finish line. They screamed and hugged each other.

The U.S. made a timing mistake before the race and was penalised. This gave the Italians an opportunity to gain an early advantage, which they continued through the six leg race by 'flying above the waves' on their hydrofoils.

After the victory, Marco Gradoni, the co-helm of the Italian team in the America's Cup broadcast said: "This is a fantastic team."

It was a super difficult task to reach this level but we managed to do it," said Gradoni. His team won the series out of a fleet 12 cars.

The youth sailors of the United States were disappointed.

Harry Melges, co-helm of the U.S. team, said: "Massive Congratulations... They sailed phenomenally."

The AC40s that were used for the Youth America's Cup will also be used by 12 teams in the Women's America's Cup next month. (Reporting and editing by Ken Ferris; Alexander Smith)

(source: Reuters)