This weekend, sailors celebrated the first America's Cup women's race with tight races and some spectacular slash downs in challenging Mediterranean weather conditions off Barcelona.

The America's Cup was dominated by males for its entire 173 year history. This new event is designed to give women a path by bridging that gap.

Saskia Clark, a British athlete, said: "It is a huge deal for our sport."

The British Olympian said: "We all have a responsibility to nail next week, be awesome, and claim our place in this world. So that you can feel confident as a youngster and know you belong," she added.

The women's sailing fleet includes 17 Olympic medalists, including both veteran sailors and new talent.

The 12 teams are split into two groups. The top three in each group will qualify for the semi-finals this week, and the top two will advance to the "match" final.

The British won the first race of the weekend, but Italy, which had three first-place finishes, came out on top in their group, despite the big waves and shifting winds. Britain was in second place, and New Zealand third.

"These boats are incredible. The performance is incredible. And the combination of skills and getting it right can be a real challenge," Clark said, laughing, as she recalled how the crew survived an enormous splash-down at the finish line.

The Netherlands, on the other hand, made their mark in the competition. They recovered from a disappointing race one to win a third, and two firsts.

The Dutch crew included Olympic gold medalists in women's skiff Odile van Anholt and Annette Duetz. They had only two days of practice on the AC40s. These boats "foil" over the water.

The Olympics can be quite stressful. Duetz, who was broadcasting the America's Cup live as the Dutch team celebrated, said: "I think this is more relaxed. It's a great deal of fun."

Spain and Australia, both local favorites, are in second place, after the Dutch. Both countries have sailed on their home waters consistently. (Reporting and editing by Pritha Sakar; Alexander Smith)

(source: Reuters)