start in the US Santa Maria Cup.

After a frustrating morning on Thursday's opening day when a lack of wind prevented any sailing before 1.00 p.m., Lewin sprung into action to snatch four wins in her five afternoon matches.

But that was only good enough to hold down second place as American Corey Sertl won five out of five. Current world champion Betsy Alison was tied in fourth place with three others after managing just two wins.

Lewin is sailing with her regular crew of sister Peta, Leatrice Roman and Lisa Neasham.

The Santa Maria Cup is divided into two round robin groups with the leading skippers ultimately meeting in the final.

ALL AT SEA -- Sixteen year-old Kaitlin Mulderig will be among three young Bermudians crewing on Starr Trail in next month's Bermuda-Newport Race. Starr Trail is owned by Kaitlin's father, Robert Mulderig.