Chris Poole extended his lead at match racing's 61st Congressional Cup as the regatta intensified on day two in Long Beach.
The two-time winner sits top of the standings with 11 wins and one loss after a full opening round robin.
Defending champion Eric Monnin and Sweden’s Johnie Berntsson are tied for second on 9-3, keeping pressure on the American leader.
A steady sea breeze produced close duels across the fleet as ten teams from six nations completed the first stage.
Attention now shifts to the second round robin, where the top four will secure semi-final places.
Poole’s unbeaten run ended in a key clash with Berntsson, who posted five wins on the day.
“We had a good race with Johnie, but he got the right side and stayed ahead,” said Poole. “I don’t care about the losses. I only care about who wins the last race of the regatta.”
Poole recovered in dramatic fashion against Oscar Engström, clearing a penalty at the finish before crossing the line.
“Things weren’t looking good,” he said. “Then we pulled a rabbit out of the hat.”
Monnin also stayed in contention with four hard-fought wins, including late-race recoveries under pressure.
“We had to work hard today, but we’re pleased with our wins,” said the Swiss skipper.
With six races remaining per team, Friday’s final qualifying matches will decide the semi-final lineup.
Racing resumes at Belmont Pier, with the top four advancing to knockout racing through the weekend.
