Messing About In Sailboats

Poll: How has the bickering between Larry and Ernie affected the Americas Cup?

The ongoing litigation between Larry Ellison and Ernesto Bertarelli drags on. This article in last Wednesday's New York Times sums up the latest fiasco.  Arguably the last AC in Valencia was the best ever but since then it's just become depressing.

There are so many issues at hand. Is the Deed of Gift out of date in today's sporting world or are its ambiguities and resulting arguments part of what makes the Americas Cup special? Is the DOG race a farce or is it part of what makes the Cup different? Was Larry Ellison right to challenge Alinghi or would it have been better to accept Bertarelli's plan?

The big question is this: Is this very public argument irreparably undermining the Americas Cup? In the last few weeks I have heard a number of sources talk about other events taking over the mantle of premiere prize in sailing like the Volvo Ocean Race or the recent New York Yacht Club Invitational regattas.

Let me know what you think by answering the poll to the left or leaving a comments below?

Sailing Photo Of The Day - Vintage 18s

Vintage 18s, originally uploaded by iansand.

Melges 24 Worlds

Pictures of the Melges 24 WORLDS

Photo: Stefano Gattini/JOE FLY

The experience of a lifetime - Updated

I have been following The Clipper round the world race. One of my dreams is to take part in this some day. In their weekly update email, one of the racers Shana Bagley shared her experience. It's well worth reading. You can read more from Shana at her blog Sail Charisma

"As California is currently (still) sailing under the glow of the Southern Cross and nearing the end of one of my three legs in this Race, I, too, am reflecting on the end of my relationship (temporarily) with the adventure, the boat, the lifestyle, and, more importantly, with the skipper and crew. Frankly, I don’t like the thought of leaving at all. Race 2 (La Rochelle to Rio) has lasted longer than projected due to repeated light winds and we are all seriously looking forward to a real shower, fresh fruit and meat and some cold beer (not necessarily in that order).

However, even after 31-plus straight days at sea, I do not want to leave my new found life as an ocean racer and as a California crew member. I am not sure how I am going to manage watching what has been my home and my family for the last two months and over 5,000 nautical miles sail away on Leg 2 (Cape Town) without me. One cannot classify returning to a land-based life and an office as going back to the “Real World”.

More from China Cup

c/o Carlo Borlenghi

China Cup - Hong Kong to ShenZen Race

Photos by Carlo Borlenghi. I totally agree with the guy in the last photos shirt!

Sailing Photo Of The Day - Rolex Middle Sea Race 2009

On board of DSK on the Vulcano's Race. Photo: Carlo Borlenghi and Bruno Cocozza/DSK

Alinghi at RAK

I still can't get over what a monster this boat is. Photos c/o of Carlo Borlenghi

Sailing Photo Of The Day - Puerto Calero GP42 Global Cup 2009

Puerto Calero GP42 Global Cup 2009, originally uploaded by Nico Martinez Photo.

Sailing Photo Of The Day - TP52 World Championship 2009

TP52 World Championship 2009, originally uploaded by Nico Martinez Photo.