The Louis Vuitton Cup competition is underway to determine the challenger for the America's Cup. Many sailing writers have said the challenger cup races bring together the finest collection of sailors and racing yachts ever. But what's your view of this year's America's Cup competition? Do you see these boats and crews as the pinnacle of the sport we all love and participate in? Are they boats and crews to be looked up to and admired? Or do you see these races as the playgrounds of spoiled billionaires with big egos and unlimited budgets, participating in something far removed from what we do? Will you follow the Cup results closely or, for the most part, ignore the competition? Share your views on the Cup and be sure to vote in this week's Quick Quiz at the bottom of the home page. (Quiz contributed by Gary Wyngarden)
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Schedule?
How about posting the schedule for the races so we can catch them on the cable or Direct TV?
How about posting the schedule for the races so we can catch them on the cable or Direct TV?
TV coverage
The Outdoor Life Network (OLN) is, to my knowledge, the only TV coverage in the USA. Their coverage starts at 9pm (EDT) on the nights of each race. Note that NZ is about 16 hours ahead of us, so that you see "tomorrows" race at that time. I say "about" because I believe that NZ went on to daylight savings yesterday - so it is probably now 17 hours ahead. Anyway, see the link below for the OLN schedule. Derek
The Outdoor Life Network (OLN) is, to my knowledge, the only TV coverage in the USA. Their coverage starts at 9pm (EDT) on the nights of each race. Note that NZ is about 16 hours ahead of us, so that you see "tomorrows" race at that time. I say "about" because I believe that NZ went on to daylight savings yesterday - so it is probably now 17 hours ahead. Anyway, see the link below for the OLN schedule. Derek
LVC-2002
Firstly; My inscincere kudos and general nasty wishes ti Cablevision for once again stiffing a major sailing telelvision market in the tri-state area with absolutely no coverage of the LVC. They did it with the Yankees, and now they're going to do it with the America's Cup, even though the New York Yacht Club and it's major sponsor, Computer Associates (LI firm)are contenders in the cup race under Team DC. I now know that my $60 a month in cable fees are a true waste of funds. In terms of the actual races, I miss the old 12 meter yachts. Not only were they cheaper to build, but far more entertaining to sail. Today's cup races are all about big money (like the days of old when Lipton sent his mega dollars inot huge yachts). I think that the event has lost it's match appeal and has become the playing field for the very rich. If the playing field were more level in terms of pure sailing talent and less expensive hardware, the CUP could become more like a yearly match racing circuit. Television coverage would also enlighted the nation to what the world already enjoys as a spectator sport. Characters like Russell Couts opting for the silver spoon in lieu of sailing for his country are examples of what really drives this event. Many folks still look at the Cup as a rich persons' folly, like polo. I think the Cup needs to be a yearly event, played under more level-headed rules and venues. The three year (more in some cases) breaks between the Cup races hurt the sport more than help it. If the Cup were a yearly match race, it might be different and better.
Firstly; My inscincere kudos and general nasty wishes ti Cablevision for once again stiffing a major sailing telelvision market in the tri-state area with absolutely no coverage of the LVC. They did it with the Yankees, and now they're going to do it with the America's Cup, even though the New York Yacht Club and it's major sponsor, Computer Associates (LI firm)are contenders in the cup race under Team DC. I now know that my $60 a month in cable fees are a true waste of funds. In terms of the actual races, I miss the old 12 meter yachts. Not only were they cheaper to build, but far more entertaining to sail. Today's cup races are all about big money (like the days of old when Lipton sent his mega dollars inot huge yachts). I think that the event has lost it's match appeal and has become the playing field for the very rich. If the playing field were more level in terms of pure sailing talent and less expensive hardware, the CUP could become more like a yearly match racing circuit. Television coverage would also enlighted the nation to what the world already enjoys as a spectator sport. Characters like Russell Couts opting for the silver spoon in lieu of sailing for his country are examples of what really drives this event. Many folks still look at the Cup as a rich persons' folly, like polo. I think the Cup needs to be a yearly event, played under more level-headed rules and venues. The three year (more in some cases) breaks between the Cup races hurt the sport more than help it. If the Cup were a yearly match race, it might be different and better.
America's Cup -- spoiled
I think the America's Cup is a playground for the idle, spoiled rich and is bad for the sport of sailing. It is pretty boring to watch on TV and confirms the notion of many that sailing is a sport for spoiled snobs --- just as, I think, tennis had that reputation in the past. That level of "racing" (actually a battle of the techno-wizards) has nothing to do with the kind of sailing most of us do --- cruising, day sailing, club racing. I own a 1979 O'Day Mariner and while those America's Cup what-do-I-do-with-all-my-money kids are out in their sailing machines, I'll turn the TV off and go out for a nice sail. Tom Natale
I think the America's Cup is a playground for the idle, spoiled rich and is bad for the sport of sailing. It is pretty boring to watch on TV and confirms the notion of many that sailing is a sport for spoiled snobs --- just as, I think, tennis had that reputation in the past. That level of "racing" (actually a battle of the techno-wizards) has nothing to do with the kind of sailing most of us do --- cruising, day sailing, club racing. I own a 1979 O'Day Mariner and while those America's Cup what-do-I-do-with-all-my-money kids are out in their sailing machines, I'll turn the TV off and go out for a nice sail. Tom Natale
America's Cup and New Equipment smallboat sailors
Over the years much of the equipment that we now take for granted was developed for racing boats, like the America's Cup sleds. It takes time for this equipment to become affordable to us, the smallboat sailor's. I also really enjoy watching the racing. Ray
Over the years much of the equipment that we now take for granted was developed for racing boats, like the America's Cup sleds. It takes time for this equipment to become affordable to us, the smallboat sailor's. I also really enjoy watching the racing. Ray
Best and (perhaps) worst
As an ex-patriate Aussie (now a U.S. Citizen) I have followed the A.C. for many years. This year is no exception. From what I have seen so far it appears that we may have some of the top designers in the world showing what millions of dollars can produce. Boat speed and performance appears to be fairly consistent across the fleet. On the other hand, the big difference is likely to be in the crews. We will see some great boat handling as well as some first class incompetence. I believe that the schedule of the LV Cup will separate the wheat from the chaff and that the eventual winner will be the best boat and crew in the world to challenge for, and bring back the "Auld Mug" to its rightful home in the USA (Seattle?). For those of you who, like me, do not have access to OLN follow the link below to the Louis Vuitton Cup web page. You can download VirtualSpectator and watch 3D animation of the races in real time, with commentary, as well as replaying previous races. Once the LV Cup is done ESPN will be taking over coverage for the America's Cup.
As an ex-patriate Aussie (now a U.S. Citizen) I have followed the A.C. for many years. This year is no exception. From what I have seen so far it appears that we may have some of the top designers in the world showing what millions of dollars can produce. Boat speed and performance appears to be fairly consistent across the fleet. On the other hand, the big difference is likely to be in the crews. We will see some great boat handling as well as some first class incompetence. I believe that the schedule of the LV Cup will separate the wheat from the chaff and that the eventual winner will be the best boat and crew in the world to challenge for, and bring back the "Auld Mug" to its rightful home in the USA (Seattle?). For those of you who, like me, do not have access to OLN follow the link below to the Louis Vuitton Cup web page. You can download VirtualSpectator and watch 3D animation of the races in real time, with commentary, as well as replaying previous races. Once the LV Cup is done ESPN will be taking over coverage for the America's Cup.
America's Cup & Sportsmanship
It is true that new developments in sails, materials, tactics, hull design, etc. do come from the grand prix racing as exemplified by the Americas Cup competition, and ultimately these developments due filter down to production boats. However, I find the secrecy that veils each competitor's camp is somewhat distasteful. For about 40 years I have been involved in sail boat racing in various venues. At the end of any given race, winners would gladly explain why they did well to those who didn't do well. Ultimately, this has always had the effect of improving the level of competition. In conclusion, I think the competition would be enhanced if the various campaigns were not so secretive about new developments. After all, an Americas Cup boat cannot be built overnight, or over a weekend.
It is true that new developments in sails, materials, tactics, hull design, etc. do come from the grand prix racing as exemplified by the Americas Cup competition, and ultimately these developments due filter down to production boats. However, I find the secrecy that veils each competitor's camp is somewhat distasteful. For about 40 years I have been involved in sail boat racing in various venues. At the end of any given race, winners would gladly explain why they did well to those who didn't do well. Ultimately, this has always had the effect of improving the level of competition. In conclusion, I think the competition would be enhanced if the various campaigns were not so secretive about new developments. After all, an Americas Cup boat cannot be built overnight, or over a weekend.
If I have a choice of going sailing or watching a Cup Race I will go sailing. In my opinion, the America's Cup races today have little in common with most sailors.
Okay--but Too Long!
I am enjoying the competition (on OLN Cable), and I agree that a lot of techololgical development--and technique--come out of the AC. However, I find it wierd to think that the challenger series is going to take 4-5 months to complete! I that seems like a long time before the actual competition starts.
I am enjoying the competition (on OLN Cable), and I agree that a lot of techololgical development--and technique--come out of the AC. However, I find it wierd to think that the challenger series is going to take 4-5 months to complete! I that seems like a long time before the actual competition starts.
Novice sailor
The America's Cup has a deep tradition in our country's sailing history. I envy all crews that make the cut. I follow the races as best as possible through the limited coverage on cable networks and newspapers. Hats off to Outdoor Life Network that broadcast the races. Unfortunately my cable company does not offer it in my area. I have faith that Conner and his crew will bring back the cup to America...where it belongs.
The America's Cup has a deep tradition in our country's sailing history. I envy all crews that make the cut. I follow the races as best as possible through the limited coverage on cable networks and newspapers. Hats off to Outdoor Life Network that broadcast the races. Unfortunately my cable company does not offer it in my area. I have faith that Conner and his crew will bring back the cup to America...where it belongs.
Ego, Technology and Skill
There is no doubt about it. It is a combination of ego by big money, advanced technology (some of which trickles down to our level) that never would be developed if it were not for the Americas Cup and a skill level and dedication of the participants that we would all love to see sailing in our local fleets.
There is no doubt about it. It is a combination of ego by big money, advanced technology (some of which trickles down to our level) that never would be developed if it were not for the Americas Cup and a skill level and dedication of the participants that we would all love to see sailing in our local fleets.
Finally... TV coverage!
While there's plenty of negatives that one can say about the LV cup... as in playthings of the rich... at least we can finally watch something about sailing on TV. Sure beats most of the moronic drivel that we usually have to choose from (Survivor comes immediately to mind, but there are plenty of other examples) At least OLN is providing lots of coverage, hopefully it will be supported so that we can see other shows... something about cruising would be nice!
While there's plenty of negatives that one can say about the LV cup... as in playthings of the rich... at least we can finally watch something about sailing on TV. Sure beats most of the moronic drivel that we usually have to choose from (Survivor comes immediately to mind, but there are plenty of other examples) At least OLN is providing lots of coverage, hopefully it will be supported so that we can see other shows... something about cruising would be nice!
A Tradition of Wealth, Technology and Ego
I have been fortunate to visit Cowes, England on the Isle of Wight last year (one week before the 150th Anniversary of the Cup) and see the gathering of classic and recent America's Cup yachts from many countries. This summer, I visited Newport, RI, touring the Herreshof Museum, visiting the America's Cup Hall of Fame Museum, the International Yacht Restoration School (the home of the Louis Vuitton Cup Museum), sailed on an America's Cup 12 meter and on the replica of America, the first Cup winner. It is clear the America's Cup is, first, about history and tradition. Having seen first hand the history of the builders, sailors and technology there is no doubt it brings out the newest innovations and the who's who in sailing. By nature of the event, the cost to compete, travel, build or acquire the yachts, obtain the best possible crew, all requires an incredible amount of money. Therefore big corporate sponsors are brought in, or individuals with the deep pockets. Surely the best racing occurs in other events around the country or around the world, but this competition is so deeply rooted in history and international competition it attracts the most attention. Even more now, I believe, with the Cup being passed around other countries and television coverage the event is even larger. There are egos in competition sailing, whether it be the Thursday night fun races or the America's Cup. The competition brings that on, regardless of the scale of the event. We only see the most wealthy in the world competing for the Cup because only they can pay the price to have their shot at it. I hope there are always sponsors and wealthy individuals who pursue the Cup. The first Cup race in Cowe's, England, 150 years ago would not have happened, had it not been for some wealthy yachtsmen, ego, and technology. It looks like we may have a shot at bringing it home, but it won't be by Stars and Stripes.
I have been fortunate to visit Cowes, England on the Isle of Wight last year (one week before the 150th Anniversary of the Cup) and see the gathering of classic and recent America's Cup yachts from many countries. This summer, I visited Newport, RI, touring the Herreshof Museum, visiting the America's Cup Hall of Fame Museum, the International Yacht Restoration School (the home of the Louis Vuitton Cup Museum), sailed on an America's Cup 12 meter and on the replica of America, the first Cup winner. It is clear the America's Cup is, first, about history and tradition. Having seen first hand the history of the builders, sailors and technology there is no doubt it brings out the newest innovations and the who's who in sailing. By nature of the event, the cost to compete, travel, build or acquire the yachts, obtain the best possible crew, all requires an incredible amount of money. Therefore big corporate sponsors are brought in, or individuals with the deep pockets. Surely the best racing occurs in other events around the country or around the world, but this competition is so deeply rooted in history and international competition it attracts the most attention. Even more now, I believe, with the Cup being passed around other countries and television coverage the event is even larger. There are egos in competition sailing, whether it be the Thursday night fun races or the America's Cup. The competition brings that on, regardless of the scale of the event. We only see the most wealthy in the world competing for the Cup because only they can pay the price to have their shot at it. I hope there are always sponsors and wealthy individuals who pursue the Cup. The first Cup race in Cowe's, England, 150 years ago would not have happened, had it not been for some wealthy yachtsmen, ego, and technology. It looks like we may have a shot at bringing it home, but it won't be by Stars and Stripes.
A little of both...
Sure ego, money, power, and technology have a lot to do with the America's Cup. But that's true of every sport. Your sedan and a NASCAR have almost nothing in common except that they are 4 wheel cars. Baseball star Alex Rodrigues earns more money in 2 at bats than I earn all year. That's the nature of competative sports. Besides how many people consider YOU a rich eleatest because you can even afford a boat? (whether that's true or not is relative of course...) I find the great thing about the LVC and AC competitions the coverage. For those with little experience (ME!) its amaising to sit and watch what is going on. Its 2 hours of sailing lessons everynight! So watch it, enjoy it, and GO SAILING when you get a chance! Cheers! Chris S/V B
Sure ego, money, power, and technology have a lot to do with the America's Cup. But that's true of every sport. Your sedan and a NASCAR have almost nothing in common except that they are 4 wheel cars. Baseball star Alex Rodrigues earns more money in 2 at bats than I earn all year. That's the nature of competative sports. Besides how many people consider YOU a rich eleatest because you can even afford a boat? (whether that's true or not is relative of course...) I find the great thing about the LVC and AC competitions the coverage. For those with little experience (ME!) its amaising to sit and watch what is going on. Its 2 hours of sailing lessons everynight! So watch it, enjoy it, and GO SAILING when you get a chance! Cheers! Chris S/V B
Sailing or technology
I may be too much the purist, but I think a true sailing competition would be among one-design boats, where the skill of the sailors is being tested. As currently conducted, the America's Cup is more about technology than about the brilliance of any individual team or captain. I'll find it more interesting - I might even pay attention to it - when it becomes our sailors vs theirs. Right now, its too much of our engineers and inventors vs theirs. I'm going sailing.
I may be too much the purist, but I think a true sailing competition would be among one-design boats, where the skill of the sailors is being tested. As currently conducted, the America's Cup is more about technology than about the brilliance of any individual team or captain. I'll find it more interesting - I might even pay attention to it - when it becomes our sailors vs theirs. Right now, its too much of our engineers and inventors vs theirs. I'm going sailing.
Budget Equality
I am so happy to see the LV Cup on TV - exciting, dramatic and educational. Although I think that if the budgets were forcibly equalized - the race would be a bit more fair and appealing to a wider audience. It's not surprising that the big budgets are the favourites Millions France $20 Italy $20 Italy $90 (prada) Sweeden $55 GBR $35 US Oneworld $75 US Commors $40 US Oracle $95 New Zealand $40 It makes the underdoggs clear and gives me someone to cheer for (like New Zealnd) at the America's but a little more pairity would be nice!!
I am so happy to see the LV Cup on TV - exciting, dramatic and educational. Although I think that if the budgets were forcibly equalized - the race would be a bit more fair and appealing to a wider audience. It's not surprising that the big budgets are the favourites Millions France $20 Italy $20 Italy $90 (prada) Sweeden $55 GBR $35 US Oneworld $75 US Commors $40 US Oracle $95 New Zealand $40 It makes the underdoggs clear and gives me someone to cheer for (like New Zealnd) at the America's but a little more pairity would be nice!!
On-Line Cup News
Every day (when I'm not out cruising) I check the web for the race results. The bookies (William Hill bookmakers, England) at the opening (Sep 18th) were giving the odds of winning the Americas Cup to Team New Zealand at 3-5, Alinghi at 7-1, Prada at 5-1, with OneWorld down the list at 10-1 and Victory, the Sweedish team at 51-1 as also-rans. However, in the Louis Vuitton Cup the odds seem to be shaping up differently. At the end of Oct 7th (US time) Alinghi was leading the challengers with 4 wins and 1 loss while OneWorld was the only boat with no losses (but ranked 5th with a one-point deduction) and Victory Challenge looking good and really moving up. If they can make it to the quarter finals, which looks likely, it's possible that OneWorld could be the challenger upsetting the bookies. One World has been sailing really well. Good sites: For early news: http://americascup.nzoom.com/ Next earliest news: http://www.louisvuittoncup.yahoo.com/ Cup and sailing news in depth: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/sailing/default.stm including commentary by Ellen MacArthur and other sailing news. OneWorld: http://www.oneworldchallenge.com/intro.html [news is slow in coming] The Kiwi radio announcers are the best! People should realize how difficult it is to sail these boats. Heck, when the jib is "worn out" after only forty tacks and you have to throw it away, for those with smaller bankrolls one needs to really plan the race strategy. When we sail it's much easier because we tack whenever we want with no thought or consideration to how much it's costing us. Also, I've never put my foot through the main! (for those who don't know what I'm talking about, the guy up the mast on the GBR challenger tried to "fix" a wayward batten by kicking it and put his foot through the mainsail!!) I find it really interesting so far.
Every day (when I'm not out cruising) I check the web for the race results. The bookies (William Hill bookmakers, England) at the opening (Sep 18th) were giving the odds of winning the Americas Cup to Team New Zealand at 3-5, Alinghi at 7-1, Prada at 5-1, with OneWorld down the list at 10-1 and Victory, the Sweedish team at 51-1 as also-rans. However, in the Louis Vuitton Cup the odds seem to be shaping up differently. At the end of Oct 7th (US time) Alinghi was leading the challengers with 4 wins and 1 loss while OneWorld was the only boat with no losses (but ranked 5th with a one-point deduction) and Victory Challenge looking good and really moving up. If they can make it to the quarter finals, which looks likely, it's possible that OneWorld could be the challenger upsetting the bookies. One World has been sailing really well. Good sites: For early news: http://americascup.nzoom.com/ Next earliest news: http://www.louisvuittoncup.yahoo.com/ Cup and sailing news in depth: http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/other_sports/sailing/default.stm including commentary by Ellen MacArthur and other sailing news. OneWorld: http://www.oneworldchallenge.com/intro.html [news is slow in coming] The Kiwi radio announcers are the best! People should realize how difficult it is to sail these boats. Heck, when the jib is "worn out" after only forty tacks and you have to throw it away, for those with smaller bankrolls one needs to really plan the race strategy. When we sail it's much easier because we tack whenever we want with no thought or consideration to how much it's costing us. Also, I've never put my foot through the main! (for those who don't know what I'm talking about, the guy up the mast on the GBR challenger tried to "fix" a wayward batten by kicking it and put his foot through the mainsail!!) I find it really interesting so far.
Look at....
...what racing has goteen us. Boats that will capsize and stay inverted [BOC] ... boats that cannot carry a payload of any significance. Carbon fiber toothpicks to carry ballast ... and the constant quest for speed which is the very antithesis of why most of us sail....to slow down and enjoy our world. But above all that ... watching a sailboat race is like watching grass grow! At least [rhe comparison to NASCAR] those babies will move, but I think they have made automobiles more ugly, what with spoilers that are totally nonfunctional at any reasonable highway speed and block the view of anyone shorter than 5'8" [which includes my wife]. In addition, much of racing is, in fact, against maritime law requiring lookouts.. oh well, you know that and I certainly will not change your mind. Keep the lead side on the downside all... Dale
...what racing has goteen us. Boats that will capsize and stay inverted [BOC] ... boats that cannot carry a payload of any significance. Carbon fiber toothpicks to carry ballast ... and the constant quest for speed which is the very antithesis of why most of us sail....to slow down and enjoy our world. But above all that ... watching a sailboat race is like watching grass grow! At least [rhe comparison to NASCAR] those babies will move, but I think they have made automobiles more ugly, what with spoilers that are totally nonfunctional at any reasonable highway speed and block the view of anyone shorter than 5'8" [which includes my wife]. In addition, much of racing is, in fact, against maritime law requiring lookouts.. oh well, you know that and I certainly will not change your mind. Keep the lead side on the downside all... Dale
Ambivalent
I am quite accustomed to watching overpaid, egotistical millionaires play games for my amusement, so I don't take offense at the money spent on the AC. I think its a foolish use of otherwise good money, but I'm not going to jump up and down about it. The TV coverage is good and bad. The shots from above, from the boats themselves and from the chase craft are pretty cool. The graphics are great. However, sailboat racing for me is kind of like baseball: great to play, but about as exciting to view as watching paint dry. Oh sure, there are moments of suspense or excitment, but they are few and far between. I can't believe they're going to show three hours of this every night for four months.
I am quite accustomed to watching overpaid, egotistical millionaires play games for my amusement, so I don't take offense at the money spent on the AC. I think its a foolish use of otherwise good money, but I'm not going to jump up and down about it. The TV coverage is good and bad. The shots from above, from the boats themselves and from the chase craft are pretty cool. The graphics are great. However, sailboat racing for me is kind of like baseball: great to play, but about as exciting to view as watching paint dry. Oh sure, there are moments of suspense or excitment, but they are few and far between. I can't believe they're going to show three hours of this every night for four months.
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