Two of the big guns in the America's Cup went head-to-head on the Hauraki Gulf this week but in true America's Cup style the result remained a secret. In a battle of the big-budget campaigns, American syndicate Oracle BMW Racing raced Alinghi of Switzerland. Neither would confirm the result but it is understood Russell Coutts' Alinghi had the better of the Oracle team. The Americans confirmed that the race had taken place but would not elaborate on how it went.

"The session proved extremely valuable and we hope to include more races with other challengers," said public relations manager Joanna Ingley. "With just a month to go before the Challenger series, it is important that our training includes days where we can simulate race conditions and work on manoeuvres. Alinghi looked really good and they are going to be a top contender come race time."

Alinghi said it was no secret that the pair raced but, like Oracle, they would not discuss the outcome. "We want to race the other challengers and start putting the pressure on the crew," the syndicate said. - Julie Ash & Helen Tunnah, NZ Herald, full story: http://www.nzherald.co.nz/americascup/acstorydisplay.cfm?storyID=2351991&thesection=sport&thesubsection=americascup&thesecondsubsection=challengers.