Tuesday 11 September 2007

33rd America's Cup - GGYC's View On Court Proceedings

The Golden Gate Yacht Club have posted a release reflecting on Monday's court decision to request written arguments and to set a date for proceedings; not surprisingly, it does not reflect on the court's decision not to grant an injunction on SNG.

Once again, a chink of light - Tom Ehman states a strong preference for a negotiated solution.

Download the full release via the GGYC website, Here.

Court Orders Date for America’s Cup Hearing
New York, NY 10 Sept. 2007 --

The Supreme Court of the State of New York today ruled that it would hear argument on October 22 on the validity of the challenge that has produced the proposed protocol for the next America’s Cup.


“We are very pleased with this decision, as we are keen to see this issue properly resolved with a minimum of further delay,” Tom Ehman, Head of External Affairs for GGYC’s team, BMW ORACLE Racing, said.


“During the hearing, the court suggested that the parties engage in mediation to resolve all disputes. This is a course that we continue to support,” Ehman said.


“Our strong preference remains to negotiate a solution. If this is not possible, today’s decision provides for swift resolution through the courts.”


He said the team strongly favors an America’s Cup regatta like the last one sailing in monohulls, and had supported seeking a quick legal resolution so that
all participants could know the outcome of the case as soon as possible.

The San Francisco club alleges that the current America’s Cup Defender, Société Nautique de Genève (SNG), is in breach of its duty under the Deed of Gift that governs the Cup. It says SNG has accepted a challenge from an invalid contender, and is seeking to impose an unprecedented one-sided set of rules that unfairly advantage the defender to the detriment of all other competitors.


Ehman said that on October 22 the court would hear argument as to the merits of the case and that a judgement could be expected shortly thereafter.

--Ends--

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