But there was no disputing the fact that the Kiwis showed no trace of the rust many felt would be inescapable after forgoing the traditional defender trials leading up to a cup match.

An all-female crew made history by competing in the defender trials.

Conner's cunning ways in the defender trials, which America won 7-4, have been replaced by Paul Cayard's steely determination in the matches for the America's Cup.

It was especially bitter for Young America, which had the best overall record (24-12) in the defender trials, which began on Jan. 13.

The rules governing the defender trials appear to set up a format in which, if the regatta is not over by the end of the day on April 26, the boat with the most points wins.

It could be that, in the end, Conner might need Koch if Stars & Stripes wins the defender trials.

Koch's America3 boat has consistently outperformed Connor in the defender trials, and many believe Koch's success has made him arrogant.

However, four months of defender trials have proven Young America's hull speed advantages.

Vigilant raced in the defender trials for the 1895 America's Cup won by Defender.

There could have been defender trials, just as there have been for every cup in recent history.