 |
 |
|
|
 |
|
Club:
New York Yacht Club, USA
Skipper: Ken Read
Manager: Dennis Conner
Design: Reichel Pugh
Main Backer: Computer Associates
Budget: $40 million |
|
 |
|
|
www.stars-stripes.com |
|
 |
|
 |
|
|
|
Out
to stop Bertarelli and driven by the same sense of the correct resting
place for the Cup is a man whose career is so linked to the event
it has become his sobriquet. However, it’s a surprise that Mr
America’s Cup, aka Dennis Conner, is even taking part. And no
one was more surprised than him when he was invited back to represent
the New York Yacht Club after his 20 years in the wilderness.
This challenge feels a little different. Team Dennis Conner have built
two identical boats and although USA 77, the newest boat, sank off
the California training base in mid-July, there is a mood of intent
that suggests Connor would like to be the first man to lose the Cup,
win it back then lose it again before winning it once more and proving
to the New York Yacht Club they were badly mistaken ever to ditch
him.
There is a familiar shape to Conner’s 2003 campaign team, with
John Reichel and Jim Pugh leading the designers and New England Boatworks
having constructed both new boats. Ken Read is leading the sailing
team, with Terry Hutchinson a key member of the afterguard, but old
favourites like Tom Whidden and Conner himself are likely to feature
as well. Peter Isler is the nominated navigator.
If guile and experience prove to be key factors, this team could surprise
the bigger spenders, although an old school feel could leave them
short of a cutting edge. Nevertheless, they are the front-runners
for the fourth semi-final place.
|
| |
| |
|
|
