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Boat Racing Info
Boat Racing
Starting in 1829, boat racing has turned into a famous modern sport with nearly 50 million spectators worldwide. People have engaged in boat racing events over the years. One of the oldest international sailing yacht competitions and best-known trophies is America’s Cup, alternatively known as the Auld Mug.
The Royal Yacht Squadron of Great Britain first presented this trophy as the Hundred Guinea Cup for a race surrounding the Isle of Wight on August 20, 1851. A 100-foot schooner from New York City called America won the Cup, and eventually, it attained the moniker – America’s Cup.
The History
The journey of boat racing began when two friends from Harrow School met during the holidays. While Charles Merivale of St. John’s, Cambridge, and Charles Wordsworth of Christ Church College, Oxford went on rowing, they decided to challenge each other on Henley-on-Thames.
Mr. Snow of St. John’s wrote immediately to Mr. Staniforth of Christ Church on February 10, 1829, about this challenge. Finally, the first boat racing was held on June 10, 1829, and Oxford earned the winning title. The winning boat is kept securely in Henley’s River & Rowing Museum.
America’s Cup
America’s Cup significantly contributes to the increasing popularity of boat racing. The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron held the America's Cup after successfully defending the 36th America’s Cup in 2021 with Te Rehutai (the AC75 foiling monohull). The Team New Zealand syndicate sailed and owned it. The Royal Yacht Squadron and the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron will compete for the next America’s Cup. However, the date is not yet determined.
Because of America’s Cup prestige and history, boat racing appeals to the world’s top yacht designers, sailors, affluent sponsors, and entrepreneurs. Moreover, it is a platform to exhibit sailing talents, boat design, and event management and fundraising skills.
Why is Boat Racing Popular?
The sailing industry is full of competitions, amateur and professional. Interestingly, you can trace the roots of the boating race even in Holland before it started in America and England during the 17th century. Following the tradition, marine institutions and yacht clubs organized various competitions for recreational and social purposes that made for more global spectators.
It’s even fascinating to see different styles of sailboat races worldwide, like single-handed, fleet, and coastal racing. Besides America’s Cup, many other competitions are held worldwide, including Cowes Week, Volvo Ocean Race, Vendee Globe, and Barcelona, which people eagerly wait to attend and see. Browse our website and book your tickets now.
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