"This marks Australia's first participation in the event since 2000."
The Royal Prince Edward Yacht Club has issued a notice of challenge to the defending New Zealand Yacht Squadron for the 38th America's Cup, scheduled for next year in Naples, Italy.
This marks Australia's first participation in the event since 2000.
Key Personnel
- John Winning Jr: Businessman and skipper of supermaxi Andoo Comanche, backing the bid.
- Tom Slingsby: Olympic gold medalist and two-time world sailor of the year, appointed head of sailing.
- Glenn Ashby: Three-time America's Cup winner, appointed head of performance and design.
- Grant Simmer: Member of Australia's 1983 winning campaign, appointed chief executive.
Background
Australia II, skippered by John Bertrand, ended the New York Yacht Club's 132-year hold on the trophy in 1983. Australia last competed in the 2000 edition, where the Young Australia syndicate finished low in the qualifying Louis Vuitton Cup.
Rules and Inclusivity
For the first time, the event will require at least one female sailor per crew. Teams will compete in AC75 foiling monohulls. Sailor Tash Bryant commented on the opportunities this creates for women in elite sailing.
Statements
Commodore Sven Runow said the challenge represents the club and Australia's legacy in sailing. Slingsby expressed excitement about the new chapter. Ashby said the team will use modern engineering and design tools to prepare.
"The team will use modern engineering and design tools to prepare." — Glenn Ashby