The Afterguard

TEAMORIGIN challenge America's Cup factions to state their motivation - court or sport?

2008-01-22T23:59:00.000Z

With the America's Cup seemingly helplessly embroiled in courtroom bickering and semantics, a surprise move by TEAMORIGIN has proposed a 'third way'.The team have proposed their candidacy as challenger of record, to negotiate a protocol agreeable to all & based upon the original AC33 proposal, with the final to take place in Valencia in 2011.The action is an attempt to provide a means for Société

The Afterguard: Wishing Our Readers A Very Merry Christmas

2007-12-21T15:00:00.001Z

The Afterguard would like to take this opportunity to wish all our readers a very Merry Christmas and a happy and peaceful 2008.To those at sea throughout the festive season we wish safe passage.To the crews and shore crews of America's Cup teams we wish a successful and positive New Year. In particular, we hope the fortunes of all involved with TEAMORIGIN take a beneficial turn in the year

The Afterguard: TEAMORIGIN Batten Down The Hatches

2007-12-18T15:44:00.001Z

TEAMORIGIN this afternoon acknowledged that no multiple-challenger America's Cup competition is likely to take place before 2011.Careful to temper language when reflecting on the shambolic state of mismanagement that the America's Cup is in, there is little doubting the disappointment behind the team principle's pledge to try to keep TEAMORIGIN together over the next four years.Having witnessed

The Afterguard: The Deafening Sound Of Silence

2007-12-18T11:14:00.000Z

Alive & well, The Afterguard remains silent for good reason.We at The Afterguard are grateful to all who have emailed us over recent weeks to check that all is ok with us and to enquire as to why we have been silent.To be honest, our initial enthusiasm for the machinations behind the scenes of the America's Cup have turned over recent months to utter contempt for those responsible for turning a

TEAMORIGIN Get Off To A Winning Start

2007-10-08T17:00:00.000+01:00

TEAMORIGIN, Great Britain's entry for the 33rd America's Cup have signalled their intent by winning their first competitive challenge - The Grade 1 ISAF Trapani Cento Cup.TEAMORIGIN Press Release (8-10-07):TEAMORIGIN wins Trapani Cento Cup TEAMORIGIN, Britain’s Challenge for the 33rd America’s Cup, competed at the Trapani Cento Cup, a Grade One ISAF Match Race Regatta in Trapani, Sicily, at the

The Afterguard - 33rd America's Cup In Disarray

2007-10-04T01:30:00.000+01:00

The Afterguard turns its back for 5 minutes & the entire world seems to go stark raving mad...Allegedly, Alinghi's Simon Daubney has tested positive for traces of cocaine, and if true, money's power to corrupt in sport is yet again proven... [Source: NZ Herald]The billionaire's boys club stage a short-lived love-in (by phone), yet while both parties sound increasingly anxious to avoid the car

The Afterguard - Back To The 'Fuxia'

2007-09-25T19:08:00.000+01:00

To many of our readers it might seem a simple enough thing to do, but there are days when keeping The Afterguard abreast of happenings in the America's Cup is just plain arduous.Today, however, isn't one of those days...Sadly too late to meet our weekend deadline for our interview with Fuxia Challenge's Institutional Relations Director, Paolo Rivelli, we are extremely pleased to have the

The Afterguard Looks To The 'Fuxia'

2007-09-22T23:12:00.000+01:00

At the end of August, The Afterguard wrote about Fuxia Challenge in an article entitled 'The Future's Bright, The Future's Fuxia ?!?', and as is often our way, at that time we created more questions than answers...Having felt we might have been a little too light-hearted in our approach, we ended our piece by reflecting that we had made previous efforts to gain more information from Fuxia

33rd America's Cup Legal Dispute - ACM Publishes Legal Documents

2007-09-20T15:58:00.001+01:00

As is so often the case, what one hand giveth, the other taketh away...In a move clearly designed to express confidence in their legal case, ACM have today published several documents via their website (Here) today.These documents may also be downloaded from the links below:Memorandum of Law in opposition to Preliminary InjunctionAffidavit - Miquel TerrassaAffidavit - Hamish RossWe doubt the

33rd America's Cup - Protocol Revised By Société Nautique de Genève, Alinghi & Club Náutico Español de Vela

2007-09-20T15:14:00.000+01:00

This afternoon Alinghi have issued a press release concerning protocol changes agreed by Alinghi, SNG & CNEV intended to address the continuing concernings of Golden Gate Yacht Club and halt the ongoing court action.Whether viewed as an act of altruism, common sense or capitulation, the amendments to the 33rd Protocol do represent the best chance so far for peace within the America's Cup. All

33rd America's Cup: United Internet Team Germany - "Vorsprung durch Technik"

2007-09-19T23:59:00.000+01:00

United Internet Team Germany today joined the growing band of official challengers for the 33rd America's Cup revealing their methods by announcing heavy-duty financial and technical support.Along with the continuing presence of United Internet, the German challenge will also be supported by Audi AG, currently the premium sponsor of the TP52 Breitling MedCup. It is great to see that while the

33rd America's Cup: TEAMORIGIN Releases Video Report on Crew Launch Event

2007-09-17T17:13:00.000+01:00

TEAMORIGIN have made available further video coverage of Friday's team introductions at the Southampton Boat Show.The 3 minute clip includes on-board shots of the team sailing GBR75 on what appears to be the Solent recently.The Afterguard will return to the team introduction in due course with a gallery of stills and moving images marking the event.

33rd America's Cup - New Boat Class Meeting Held

2007-09-15T23:17:00.000+01:00

As reported in Friday's The Afterguard, today marked the first day of negotiations which should eventually result in the new America's Cup class yacht. It appears a short-lived event, with a further meeting scheduled for 15th October to finalise a first draft of the new rule, ahead of a completion target which remains 31st October.The release may be viewed on ACM's website, Here.Design of new

America's Cup - ACM Share (Some Of?) The Love

2007-09-15T10:18:00.000+01:00

ACM has today posted a release concerning the distributed profits from the 32nd America's Cup.The Afterguard has one observation. As detailed in point 7. of the release, ACM have closed the accounts of the 32nd America's Cup to expedite the payment of proceeds to the challenging teams (which may or may not provide more of the fence-sitters with the funds required to formally challenge for the

TEAMORIGIN's Official Presentation Release & Video

2007-09-14T21:50:00.000+01:00

TEAMORIGIN presents its line-up Sir Keith Mills and Mike Sanderson presented the sailing, design, shore and management teams at the core of TEAMORIGIN, Britain’s challenge for the 33rd America’s Cup.At the Southampton International Boat Show today TEAMORIGIN’s Sir Keith Mills and Mike Sanderson, Team Principal and Team Director respectively, announced a roll call of British and international

The Afterguard: TEAMORIGIN Mean Business

2007-09-14T17:28:00.000+01:00

Firstly, apologies to our readers - technology has cramped The Afterguard's style somewhat (we were unable to blog live from the show floor), and by now what we have to report will likely be general knowledge... However, few will have reported the team's vital statistics within touching distance of GBR75, so we'll press on regardless...The Team presented to the world today left The Afterguard in

The Afterguard - Bringing Live Reports From TEAMORIGIN America's Cup Presentation At Southampton Boat Show

2007-09-14T08:39:00.000+01:00

It's that time of year again - the roads of Southampton have been clogged with mega yachts sat precariously atop articulated lorries; hideously expensive & environmentally unfriendly temporary structures have been erected; faces have been painted, best bib & tucker pressed, speeches rehearsed... It's time to get the show on the road - the Southampton Boat Show opens today.The Afterguard will be

America's Cup Sale Now On - Everything Must Go!

2007-09-13T00:01:00.000+01:00

The Afterguard's polite reminder - Don't Be Late! - at 10:00 (CET) today, Thursday 13th September, 2007, America's Cup Management (ACM) begin their online auction of Assets From The 32nd America's Cup.Yup folks, when the auction ends on Saturday 15th at 18:00 (CET), the 32nd America's Cup will be just a distant memory. The cupboards will be bare, and presumably ACM will begin 'investing' the

TEAMORIGIN: The Telegraph predicts Skipper Ainslie

2007-09-12T15:59:00.000+01:00

In a short item reporting the launch of TEAMORIGIN's crew at this Friday's Southampton Boat Show, The British Daily Telegraph newspaper is predicting that Ben Ainslie will skipper.See the report in context, Here."It is almost certain Ben Ainslie,who had just completed Team New Zealand commitments,will be the skipper."

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

2007-09-11T00:32:00.000+01:00

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

33rd America's Cup - Supreme Court Dismisses Injunction, Sets Hearing For 22nd October

2007-09-10T23:18:00.000+01:00

Justice Herman Cahn of the New York Supreme Court has dismissed GGYC's application for an injunction against SNG, and has ruled that both parties must submit written arguments ahead of an October 22nd, 2007 hearing date to resolve the issue of validity of CNEV's challenge.As we went to press, we had not heard any reaction from GGYC.Alinghi's website statement (Here):More Good News for SNG as New

Desafio Español Announce Farr Yacht Design But No Crew

2007-09-10T13:09:00.000+01:00

Today's scheduled press conference with Desafio Español revealed detail of the team's appointed designers, but not of their crew.Farr Yacht Design will be joined by an as yet unnamed second party to form DE's design team, under John Cutler's continuing Technical Directorship.It's well worth keeping an eye on Valencia Sailing's take on the news, Here which includes the audio of the conference (in

America's Cup Arbitration Panel's Report Released

2007-09-10T11:35:00.000+01:00

ACM's Arbitration Panel, have released the full documentation of their findings in respect of CNEV validity and some issues arising from the complaints originally made by GGYC.The full document may be downloaded as a PDF Here. Do be sure to to note 86 pages before sending to the printer!We've had a quick glance through the document, and can't imagine it won't be called as evidence in SNG's

The Afterguard's America's Cup & TEAMORIGIN Weekend Roundup: 9/9/07

2007-09-10T01:49:00.000+01:00

In what will become a regular feature of The Afterguard, we present a weekend round-up of the past week (or so's) events surrounding the America's Cup and TEAMORIGIN.We pick up where our last recap (Here) left off:Fri 31/8/07 Scuttlebutt featured a Q&A session with ACM's COO Michel Hodara, who got The Afterguard's goat by failing to address the single boat in Challenger Series issue when asked.

33rd America's Cup Arbitration Panel Make First Ruling: Club Nautico Español de Vela Are Legitimate

2007-09-07T22:38:00.000+01:00

In the most recent of a flurry of activities over the last few days, the 33rd America's Cup Event Authority have disclosed that the recently nominated Arbitration Panel have reached their first decision, that Club Nautico Español de Vela (CNEV) are a legitimate Challenger of Record. Full documentation has yet to be released which may or may not address a number is issues recently raised by GGYC

ACM's Appointment Of Tom Schnakenberg As New Boat Class Consultant Receives Thumbs Up From TEAMORIGIN

2007-09-07T18:03:00.000+01:00

The ACM today announced the appointment of Tom Schnackenberg to consult on the troubled 33rd Protocol's new boat class (see ACM's website Here). Furthermore, Mike Sanderson, Team Director at TEAMORIGIN is quoted by ACM as indicating his approval and acknowledging the appointments positive impact.The statement in full: ACM announces Tom Schnackenberg as consultant to develop new class rule 07-09-

United Internet Team Germany For 33rd America's Cup

2007-09-06T02:44:00.000+01:00

Finally, weeks after the team announced it on their website, America's Cup Management have confirmed the successful challenge of United Internet Team Germany for the 33rd America's Cup. UpdatedACM's recent release, with a contribution from Desafio Espanol (which can be viewed Here):United Internet Team Germany joins the 33rd America's Cup 06-09-2007The organisers of the 33rd America’s Cup are

The Afterguard's Interpretation Of TEAMORIGIN's Statement

2007-09-06T02:21:00.000+01:00

On Tuesday 4th September 2007, TEAMORIGIN released a statement setting out its view of issues concerning the Protocol and subsequent developments for the 33rd America's Cup; The Afterguard reproduced the release at the time in full (see Here) and promised to return with its take on the statement.Setting out our stallFirstly, its only right that The Afterguard nails its colours to the mast and

Alinghi & ACM Present 33rd America's Cup Progress Report

2007-09-05T20:52:00.000+01:00

ACM appear to have got up a head of steam as they and Alinghi release a statement detailing most (but not all) of the news arising from Official 33rd America's Cup activities that took place earlier today - we assume further statements (welcomes and farewells) will be released in due course.The following statement has been released via the ACM website, here.--Begins--Alinghi and ACM move forward

TEAMORIGIN Respond to Controversy Surrounding 33rd Protocol

2007-09-04T18:28:00.000+01:00

Following recent developments concerning the Protocol released for the 33rd America's Cup and the resulting legal action taken, The Afterguard (no doubt amongst many others) approached the newest officially recognised America's Cup team for their feelings on the situation and the role that The Royal Thames Yacht club might have played in negotiations. We are extremely grateful to the team who

Scuttlebutt Gets Answers From ACM - More Questions Arise

2007-08-31T02:08:00.000+01:00

Under the title 'ACM: Questions And Answers', the excellent Scuttlebutt has provided yet further opportunity for ACM to (fail to) respond to some of the most significant questions not related to legal actions. Read the whole piece in Scuttlebutt 2423.ACM COO Michel Hodara first responded to a precise & perfectly worded question concerning the risk of unsporting conduct arising from the Defender's

The Future's Bright, The Future's Fuxia?!?

2007-08-31T01:45:00.000+01:00

Well ok, we at The Afterguard may have got a little carried away with the headline, but frankly it's hard not to with all the hype that's surrounding the all-female crewed Fuxia Challenge. Larry & Tommy, Ernesto & all at the ACM could all well do with taking a leaf out of Fuxia's book when it comes to PR - they sure can make something out of... well, you know the rest.Frankly, we'd hate to be

33rd America's Cup - Hopes Fade As Feelings Sour and Tension Mounts

2007-08-30T19:06:00.000+01:00

For those not inclined to celebrate victory by Judge & Jury, recent events surrounding the formulation of the 33rd America's Cup must be met with an unhealthy degree of despair.While forums on the topic are awash with pseudo-legal argument, claim and counter-claim, the true protagonists appear to have done little in the past week to resolve the dispute itself, despite much activity:Weds, 22/8/07

Golden Gate Yacht Club Reveals Case Against Société Nautique de Genève

2007-08-30T13:49:00.000+01:00

In fresh documentation made available on their website, Golden Gate Yacht Club (GGYC) have revealed the specifics of their case against Société Nautique de Genève (SNG). The comprehensive documents make quite a case against the 33rd Protocol and the actions of SNG & Club Náutico Español de Vela (CNEV). One aspect noted SNG's alleged scheme to avoid adjudication by the New York Supreme Court by

ACM publishes 33rd Protocol 'Story To Date'

2007-08-28T15:10:00.000+01:00

Following much criticism of little or no public recognition of the case being brought against it, the last week has seen much quoted from ACM, and now the organisation has published its take on the situation to date.The statement in full (which can be viewed on the official ACM website here): 33rd America's CupGolden Gate Yacht Club v. Société Nautique de Genève: Arbitration/Litigation status (as

Counting Challengers With Michel Hodara

2007-08-24T18:54:00.000+01:00

Michel Hodara, speaking in coverage from European broadcaster RTL, indicated that in addition to the five challenges already declared, there were 'at least a dozen additional challengers' considering competing within the framework of the 33rd Protocol.A (google) English translation of the original story can be read here.Now first up, we count:Desafio Espanol (COR), Emirates Team New Zealand,

ACM's Hodara Presents Defence

2007-08-24T18:15:00.000+01:00

BYM News have published an interview with the ACM's Michael Hodara who presents the best media defence to date.The full interview can be read here.We've cherry-picked the eye-catching moments:Some critics are genuine in their wish to prevent the AC from evolving to preserve the status quo; others (unnamed) 'are simply jealous.'Court papers only served on SNG on August 17, 2007 (as justification

BBC World Features TEAMORIGIN's Sir Keith Mills & GBR75

2007-08-24T17:21:00.000+01:00

The Afterguard have uncovered recently transmitted footage of GBR75 - racing with the replica 'America' off Valencia in July - as part of a BBC World Television broadcast featuring team principle Sir Keith Mills, looking at the impact of money on the world of sport.Running at just under 52 minutes, the programme, part of the 'Have Your Say' BBC News & World service, features Sir Keith responding

Alinghi Explain The 33rd Protocol

2007-08-23T16:57:00.000+01:00

Alinghi today posted their understanding of the (undisputed) 33rd Protocol, repeating Ernesto Bertorelli's intent to participate in the challenger series without repercussion.Q: In what sport can you lose in the knock-out round, only to compete in the final?A: The battle for sport's oldest trophy, the America's Cup.Alinghi's article in full (see it here):33rd America’s Cup, what we know so far…

ACM & Alinghi React to Golden Gate Yacht Club's Court Order

2007-08-23T14:33:00.000+01:00

ACM President Michel Bonnefous & Alinghi skipper Brad Butterworth quoted in ACM response.ACM Statement, 23rd August 2007:The Société Nautique de Genève, Alinghi and America’s Cup Management are very disappointed that BMW Oracle Racing, through the Golden Gate Yacht Club, has followed through with its threat and officially filed legal proceedings in the New York Courts. “ACM in good faith has

Golden Gate Yacht Club Takes Dispute To The Next Level

2007-08-22T23:59:00.000+01:00

The Golden Gate Yacht Club has taken its dispute with Société Nautique de Genève over the 33rd Protocol and choice of Challenger Of Record to the next level through a court order requiring Société Nautique de Genève to respond to its complaint.Mindful of the large amount of opinionated and partisan comment thus far expressed throughout the media, The Afterguard has determined to simply reproduce

TEAMORIGIN Seeks To Fulfill 156 Year Quest

2007-08-22T13:20:00.000+01:00

TEAMORIGIN marks the 156th Anniversary of the America's Cup by asserting its intent in becoming the first British representatives to win the 'Auld Mug'.August 22nd, 1851 marked the schooner America's victory for the Royal Yacht Squadron's 100 Sovereign Cup, later to be named in recognition of its first holder.It is this event which gives its name to the British challenge for the 33rd competition.

TEAMORIGIN Reveal Details of Official Team & Boat Presentation

2007-08-20T15:38:00.000+01:00

TEAMORIGIN announce Friday 14 September 2007 at 1100hrs as the Official TEAMORIGIN Team & Boat Presentation. Upon the main stage of the Southampton Boat Show on Press & Preview day, TEAMORIGIN will face the press for its first official engagement since launching in January 2007.The Afterguard aims to be present to record the events, note the names & probe for further information, & we'll be

Scathing Assessment Of 33rd Protocol Published

2007-08-20T15:37:00.000+01:00

Detroit Free Press' Eric Sharp mounts a scathing assessment on the 33rd America's Cup protocol and the motivation driving Ernesto Bertarelli: 'America's Cup winner hatches ludicrous plan - Owner twists rules in team's favor.' Read it in full here.We suspect Eric's forthright viewpoint may see him struggle to gain entry to any future Bertarelli-controlled ACM press event, but its publication is

Sir Keith Mills Receives Honoury Degree From Loughborough

2007-08-20T00:01:00.000+01:00

As self-appointed custodians of all news TEAMORIGIN, The Afterguard notes that the UK's Loughborough University has recognised TEAMORIGIN's founder, Sir Keith Mills, "in recognition of his innovations in business and customer loyalty, and for his role in the leadership of the successful London 2012 Olympic Games Bid."Lord Sebastian Coe did the honours on 23rd July, 2007 - the same day that

The Sunday Times Prints In-depth Analysis of Sir Keith's Quest

2007-08-19T09:01:00.000+01:00

The Sunday Times spent much time in Valencia during the 32nd America's Cup investigating the background and motivation for Sir Keith Mill's bid for glory, TEAMORIGIN.In a piece quoting amongst others Peter Harrison & Peter de Savary, Sunday Times journalist Russell Miller writes of the reasoning behind TEAMORIGIN under the banner 'The quest for the cup of woe' - read the full article here.It's a

Whatever Happened to United Internet Team Germany's Challenge

2007-08-16T11:07:00.000+01:00

At a time of little or no official America's Cup activities, The Afterguard ponders what has happened to UITG's 'Official Entry'...The UITG website carrys a release dated Sunday 5/8/07, referring to an 'early entry allowing more time for preparation', suggesting entry was a done deal. Websites following the America's Cup (press and other) were awash with news of the 'official' German challenge.

TEAMORIGIN's Afterguard Cowes Week Round Up

2007-08-12T13:30:00.000+01:00

Although news from TEAMORIGIN has been scarce of late, the two key figures behind the team, owner Sir Keith Mills and Team Director Mike Sanderson, have been busy participating in events at Cowes Week. Updated 13-8-07Mike Sanderson had on his other sailing hat, seeing his involvement with Pindar's new open 60 reach a finale at Cowes and then on to the Fastnet.Pindar Open 60 DismastedPindar Photo

Hodara's Uncompromising Tone Over 33rd Protocol

2007-08-06T22:09:00.000+01:00

France 24 carry an AFP story containing defiant statements from ACM's COO, Michel Hodara.Hodara says of the 33rd Protocol:"We have no intention of going back (on decisions that have been taken)", but indicated some detail might be "fine-tuned" over the coming weeks.Boat-change content "has been thought about for a long time and many are convinced that you must change to have a more exciting

America's Cup 33 - Fuxia Challenge Rumours Circulate Again

2007-08-05T22:05:00.000+01:00

Fuxia Challenge rumours are circulating again.This time involving a €48 million war chest and Carlo Croce of Genoa Yacht Club. Still to be an all female crew. Apparently.Now there's a website: HereWe're happy to report it; nice visuals (thanks Trevor) & it passes the time.Italian sites are getting quite exercised about it this weekend. For example, Here (in Italian).

ACM Update 33rd Protocol via 'Notice Of Entry'

2007-08-05T14:38:00.000+01:00

ACM stay on course through publication of the 'Notice Of Entry'.The following document (© ACM) can be downloaded from here.Specifically, have a look at 2.2 iv - The Deed of Gift gets an update - 'has or will have' a regatta.Notice of Entry 1. Background This Notice of Entry is issued by AC Management SA pursuant to Article 4 of

Coutts Offers Bertarelli an Olive Branch

2007-08-03T20:08:00.000+01:00

Valencia Sailing is carrying a statement from BMW Oracle Racing's Russell Coutts indicating that GGYC would be prepared to drop its legal challenge to the 33rd Protocol if it was to be completely rewritten to reflect the wishes of Mascalzone.It strikes us that if this were to be the case, GGYC wouldn't have much case to pursue anyway, which might explain why it fell to Coutts to release the news,

Luna Rossa Calls Time On The America's Cup

2007-08-03T19:15:00.000+01:00

Sad news reached The Afterguard this afternoon concerning the future of Italian America's Cup team Luna Rossa.Prada today announced that Luna Rossa Challenge will not be returning to challenge for the 33rd America's Cup.Luna Rossa's Patrizio Bertelli: “We challenged in three campaigns of the America’s Cup and we had ten very intense years. It has been an unforgettable experience, both from a

Mascalzone Breaks Silence Over 33rd Protocol

2007-08-03T13:38:00.000+01:00

Striking a very concilatory tone, Vincenzo Onorato of Mascalzone Latino has today broken the team's silence over the issues surrounding the 33rd Protocol.Italian site Sport Economy carries a statement from Vincenzo, an English translation of which is carried on 2007AC.com Network & BYM reproduced below. Mr Onorato seems to speak a lot of sense at a time when passions are inflamed, and we can only

Run Your Own America's Cup Campaign - Part 1

2007-08-02T13:14:00.000+01:00

With the lawyers busy doing their warm up exercises, The Afterguard takes the opportunity during this lull in activity to present the first in its series of how to 'Run Your Own America's Cup Campaign'.Over the coming days, weeks, months & years (yes it really will be that long), The Afterguard will be taking an irreverent look at what it takes to mount a successful America's Cup

The America's Cup - There's Everything to Pay For

2007-08-02T12:00:00.000+01:00

ACM provides details of an Auction of items from the 32nd America's Cup.You can imagine the scene, you've just come to the end of a four year struggle to successfully organise a major global sporting event, no doubt with weeks of tying loose ends up still ahead; no sooner is the cup held aloft do you learn that you've got to do it all over again, only this time in a 2 year time frame... then news

ACM Nominates Arbitration Panel for 33rd America's Cup

2007-07-31T18:36:00.000+01:00

Three people were today given possibly the most unwanted jobs in sailing.They were presented with the poisoned chalice of arbitrating the protocol and non-sporting/technical issues for the 33rd America's Cup. In doing so, the ACM acted in defiance of the moves being undertaken in the Courts of New York, potentially giving Larry Ellison all the provocation required to justify a much rumoured

You've Got To Smile...

2007-07-28T10:12:00.002+01:00

Sometimes a picture is worth a thousand words, a fact known only too well by those scamps over at Sail Karma.It doesn't really matter whether you're in the Ellison or Bertarelli camp, you've still got to smile! Respect guys.

Bertarelli Clarifies 33rd Protocol - slightly

2007-07-25T18:15:00.000+01:00

At this afternoon's ACM press conference to announce Valencia as the official host of the 33rd America's Cup, Alinghi & ACM's Ernesto Bertarelli clarified his view of events surrounding the 33rd Protocol.He defined Valencia as a fantastic venue; subject to ACM's final decision, the 33rd Cup would be raced on the same North & South courses.Regattas would take place in Valencia in Spring 2008, with

Team New Zealand For 33rd America's Cup

2007-07-25T18:09:00.001+01:00

Team New Zealand (note: not Emirates Team New Zealand) have applied and been accepted as challenger for the 33rd America's Cup.At this afternoon's press conference to announce Valencia as the official host of the 33rd America's Cup, Ernesto Bertarelli announced that along with defenders Alinghi, challengers confirmed to date include Desafio Espanol, Team Shosholoza, TeamOrigin and today also Team

ACM Announce Valencia as Venue for 33rd America's Cup

2007-07-25T16:32:00.000+01:00

America's Cup Management (ACM) held a press conference today at 17:30 in Port America, Valencia, Spain.Prior to the conference proper, a presentation took place behind a podium proudly enscribed '33rd America's Cup - Valencia'.Aside the mayoress, amid fireworks and the Auld Mug itself on the podium, Michel Bonnefous (ACM CEO) announced that Valencia will be the host of the 33rd America's Cup.

America's Cup Press Conference Due

2007-07-24T20:43:00.000+01:00

ACM have announced their intention to stream live their 33rd America's Cup press conference from Port America, Valencia, Spain, on Wednesday 25th July 2007, at 17:30 (CET, we presume; 16:30 BST [GMT+1]). Visit the official site here to watch the live video stream.What's it to be? 'All is well'? 'We feel attacked'? 'No more CNEV'? We'll all have to tune in to find out!

Société Nautique de Genève respond to Supreme Court Move

2007-07-24T19:30:00.000+01:00

America's Cup Management (ACM) have today issued a statement confirming official challengers for the 33rd America's Cup as Spain's Desafino Espaniol, South Africa's Team Shosholoza and Great Britain's TeamOrigin, contesting to face Switzerland's Alinghi in the final of the next competition. Additionally, the statement reflects the reaction of Société Nautique de Genève (SNG) to the legal

Coutts for BMW Oracle Racing in 33rd America's Cup

2007-07-24T19:10:00.000+01:00

Being widely reported is the attendance by Russell Coutts at today's BMW Oracle Racing press conference, in which Coutts was introduced as the newly signed skipper and CEO of BMW Oracle Racing for the team's challenge for the 33rd America's Cup.Valencia Sailing were in attendance & have further detail, including images & audio from the conference.Inset image: Photo © Reuters

TEAMORIGIN For The 33rd America's Cup

2007-07-23T20:18:00.000+01:00

Following on from the official announcement of Shosholoza's 33rd America's Cup challenge, TEAMORIGIN today released a statement confirming the acceptance of their application to challenge in the next America's Cup.The TEAMORIGIN statement in full: TEAMORIGIN Becomes An Official Challenger Of The 33rd America’s Cup Today, Monday 23rd July 2007, the Société Nautique de Genève (SNG),

Shosholoza for 33rd America's Cup

2007-07-20T00:01:00.000+01:00

Shosholoza signs on for the 33rd America's Cup - official.Mariantic today reported South African Sailing's revelation that Team Shosoloza had lodged a notice of entry for the 33rd America's Cup.Although it had long been assumed that Shosholoza would be a challenger next time around, the timing - amid much confusion as to the specifics of the 33rd Cup - has come as something of a surprise.

Will The Real 33rd COR Please Make Themselves Known?

2007-07-19T18:11:00.000+01:00

Word reaches The Afterguard courtesy of BYM Sailing & Sports News of significant developments concerning the proposed 33rd America's Cup Protocol recently released by Societe Nautique de Geneve(SNG - see here).It is speculated that the Challenger of Record (COR), Club Nautico Espanol de Vela (CNEV), is preparing to stand down, subsequent to the challenge to the Protocol presented by Golden Gate

TEAMORIGIN - GBR75's Maiden Voyage - Gallery

2007-07-18T00:30:00.000+01:00

Saturday July 14th 2007 saw an event of great significance to Great Britain's bid to compete in the 33rd & 34th America's Cup - the maiden voyage (under TEAMORIGIN ownership) of its first vessel. The Afterguard presents a gallery of images depicting the event.Updated 24/8/07: Images 29a, 29b, 29c.Inset image: Photo 1 © Carlo Borlenghi/kospictures.comThe Afterguard is extremely grateful to the

TEAMORIGIN - GBR75's Maiden Voyage - Report

2007-07-17T19:00:00.000+01:00

Saturday July 14th 2007 saw an event of great significance to Great Britain's bid to compete in the 33rd & 34th America's Cup - the maiden voyage (under TEAMORIGIN ownership) of its first vessel. The Afterguard reports.Inset image: Photo © Carlo Borlenghi/kospictures.comSUI75 had been built in 2002 by Decision boatyard in Vevey, Switzerland, on behalf of the Swiss America's Cup team Alinghi, to

TEAMORIGIN - More GBR75 Images

2007-07-16T12:56:00.000+01:00

More images are appearing of GBR75's maiden voyage this weekend. Update #3Inset image: Photo © Heike SchwabThis is an image of a replica of America, the winner of the inaugural America's Cup in 1851, after which the competition takes its name. She was also out on the water at the weekend, and GBR75 didn't miss a good photo opportunity!Our image is reproduced here with the kind permission of

TEAMORIGIN - Finally Afloat

2007-07-15T15:14:00.001+01:00

Exciting news reaches us here at The Afterguard, courtesy of the eyes & ears of Pierre over at Valencia Sailing, who reports that TEAMORIGIN were seen afloat aboard GBR75 (PKA SUI75) in Valencia, Spain, yesterday (Saturday 14-7-07).Inset image: Photo © Heike SchwabTo the best of our knowledge, this will be the first time that TEAMORIGIN have set sail aboard their own vessel, and marks a

TEAMORIGIN - Reveals New Team Location

2007-07-13T23:59:00.000+01:00

TEAMORIGIN reveal a change of location to which communications should be sent.TEAMORIGIN's website was today updated here to reflect a change of location to which communications with the team should be sent.The new address is:TEAMORIGIN LLPBoathouse No.6HM Naval BaseCollege RoadPO1 3PUA 'boathouse' suggests the team have somewhere to store GBR75 (PKA SUI75), and the core of the shore team have

Golden Gate Yacht Club Issues Statement

2007-07-13T00:33:00.000+01:00

The yacht club challenging the appointment of COR for the 33rd America's Cup today publicly issued a press statement, explaining their action in writing to Société Nautique Genève and claiming the role of COR for themselves.The statement in full:San Francisco's Golden Gate Yacht Club Challenges for 33rd America's Cup The Golden Gate Yacht Club (GGYC) of San Francisco today presented a formal

AC 33 Protocol bustup - Seconds out, round two

2007-07-12T15:47:00.000+01:00

It didn't take long - Club Nautico Espanol de Vela have responded to the Golden Gate Yacht Club's claim to the title of COR already.BYM Sailing & Sports News carry an English translation of the Spanish statement, indicating:Their acceptance as COR was in accordance with the Deeds of Gift.While they don't refute that the COR must have organised regattas, they indicate that the Deed of Gift does

Challenge to AC33 Protocol - Let Battle Commence

2007-07-12T13:30:00.000+01:00

The Golden Gate Yacht Club challenges the 33rd America's Cup Protocol. In what has either marred or added interest to (depending on viewpoint) recent America's Cup competition, a not unexpected challenge has been issued in respect of the contents of the recently published 'Protocol Governing The Thirty Third America’s Cup' (we previously covered the news here).In a series of documents detailed

Ben Ainslie Watch - Update

2007-07-10T17:06:00.000+01:00

Okay, this gets complicated -Mariantic identified that New Zealand's Stuff were reporting that the Sunday Star Times had spotted Ben Ainslie having a cosy chat with Anthony Romano, Luna Rossa's General Manager. Did the editorial over at Rule69 put the wind up Ainslie, we wonder?As ever, nothing is as it appears, and the America's Cup keeps providing entertainment long after the Auld Mug is

TEAMORIGIN - Rumour, Speculation & Possibly Some News!

2007-07-09T15:48:00.001+01:00

With just a few days having passed since the completion of AC32, there's not a great deal of official 33rd America's Cup news circulating at present - but there's a wealth of gossip concerning the formation of teams for the next challenge. The Afterguard provides a round-up of what's being said about TEAMORIGIN.As Johnathan Swift once wrote, "What some invent the rest enlarge" and so it is that

TEAMORIGIN - Team Director's Response to AC33 Protocol

2007-07-06T11:25:00.000+01:00

TEAMORIGIN Team Director Mike Sanderson is currently in New Zealand (sea trialling the new Pindar Open 60, in which he has significant design & development interest), so we're exceptionally grateful to him for providing a statement concerning the recently announced 33rd America's Cup Protocol.At the protocol press conference on Thursday, Alinghi's President, Ernesto Bertarelli, was asked to

TEAMORIGIN - Profile: Sir Keith Mills

2007-07-06T02:00:00.000+01:00

In this edition of our series focussing on the key personnel behind Great Britain's bid for America's Cup glory, we turn our attention to Sir Keith Mills, business entrepreneur and TEAMORIGIN's founder & Team Principle. Updated 24/8/07Name: Sir Keith MillsAge: 56Born: 1950, Brentwood, Essex, UKEducated: UKLives: Tonbridge Wells, Kent, UK. Married (to Maureen) with 2 children.Net Worth: £200

33rd America's Cup - Protocol Released

2007-07-05T17:19:00.000+01:00

"Bigger, faster and harder to sail" Brad Butterworth, AlinghiThe Protocol for the 33rd America's Cup was released earlier today (for a PDF copy, click here).Top amongst the key points is the definition of a new class of ACC yacht which must be sailed in the final match between defender and challenger. New vessels must be 27.4 metres in length (as opposed to the 24m vessels raced in AC32). This

TEAMORIGIN - The Story So Far...

2007-07-04T17:40:00.000+01:00

We take a close look at happenings so far for TEAMORIGIN, Great Britain's bid for the 33rd America's Cup.It is this blog's intention to focus extensively on all things surrounding the 33rd America's Cup, and most especially on Great Britain's proposed bid to challenge for the Auld Mug, TEAMORIGIN. We had originally hoped to see the view from inside, but alas the team in its wisdom has thus far

The Little Monkeys

2007-07-04T17:08:00.000+01:00

Respect goes to our colleagues over at Sail Karma.....who had this blogger spitting his tea as he read that the spice girls were to have anything to do with TEAMORIGIN, Great Britain's new bid to win the America's Cup - it wasn't until we looked deeper and read 'YES! This is a joke - so stop sending us emails for the scoop!' that we regained our composure and enjoyed the rest of our cuppa. The

33rd America's Cup - Start Your Engines

2007-07-04T16:10:00.000+01:00

To accompany this blog's increased coverage of all things America's Cup, we thought we'd stare a while at the Confused + Emotional crystal ball.With the 32nd America's Cup safely back in the hands of Swiss team Alinghi, our thoughts turn inevitably to the next series, the 33rd.Alinghi have already let it be known that if successful in their defence, they'd like to see the next series run in 2009

Alinghi Claims 32nd America's Cup

2007-07-03T13:50:00.000+01:00

Swiss RuleAlinghi, the Swiss defending holder of The America's Cup have successfully defended their their crown by defeating Emirates Team New Zealand, 5 races to 2 in the best of nine series.With strong winds approaching the maximum permissible for racing to take place, and good waves and strong sunshine, everything was set for good sailing. Past record would suggest that Alinghi's SUI100

Wind stops play

2007-07-01T15:32:00.000+01:00

Inconsistent wind conditions in Valencia have forced the postponement of today's 7th flight in the 32nd America's Cup.I'm not sure I particularly favour the fact that if conditions are changeable, these races tend to be called off - whenever I've sailed, competitively or otherwise, I've never been given the option to stop if conditions got a bit tricky! Nevertheless, the organisers have

America's Cup Flight 6

2007-06-30T15:28:00.000+01:00

It's now or never for the Kiwis as Alinghi beat Emirates Team New Zealand to take a 4-2 lead in the first to 5 seriesLightish winds set the conditions under which the 6th round of the 32nd America's Cup would be fought.Team New Zealand took the advantage out of the start box and chose to allow Alinghi to set its own strategy; ultimately, this decision, taken within the final 5 minutes prior to

Team New Zealand get seasick

2007-06-29T18:56:00.000+01:00

America's Cup flight 5 is one Team New Zealand will probably care to forget.Sometimes things are just all against you, and there's just nothing you can do to recover. It's not a state affairs unknown to this author, and so it was with great empathy that I followed today's race, as the word 'Spinnaker' became as unpopular on board the Kiwi vessel as a careless whistle.Spinnaker one decided to tear

Alinghi provides some answers

2007-06-27T23:42:00.000+01:00

The Swiss draw even at 2-2Race 4 of the 32nd America's Cup in Valencia, Spain, took place in light winds which had previously proved favourable to the New Zealand challengers. Would Alinghi suffer a hangover from yesterday's tightly fought defeat?After a close exit from the start box, the race was cat and mouse from start to finish, with Alinghi leading all the way, though never by more than 5 or

An America's Cup classic...

2007-06-27T01:55:00.000+01:00

In one of the greatest America's Cup clashes in recent memory, Team New Zealand staged an unbelievable comeback to pull ahead in the series, 2-1.Weather conditions for the 3rd America's Cup race were not favourable. Shifty light winds and choppy seas forced a delay of several hours, and when racing did get underway, required great tactics and faultless operation. As it happened, both teams

The fight for the Auld Mug heats up...

2007-06-26T01:37:00.000+01:00

The fight for the world's oldest sporting trophy, the 32nd America's Cup is well under way in Valencia, Spain.Background: A competition between large yachts, it represents the Formula One of sailing. The competitive edge comes via technology (with boat design & equipment within highly-defined regulations playing a large part), skill, teamwork, strength, & - what makes it such a thrilling