Welcome to the “Un-America’s Cup”

There is something eerily disappointing when you walk into a sports stadium when there is no game. It’s cavernous, empty shell seems without purpose.

For a proven sport such as football or baseball, the massive structure may be justifiable. But for an event such as the America’s Cup, seeking to justify itself in front of a new audience, a lack of activity hastens progress.

To keep the volume loud, the America’s Cup Event Authority launched the AC OPEN. Upwards of 16 events are to be staged at either the America’s Cup Park (Piers 27/29) or Village (Marina Green) to run in parallel to the Louis Vuitton Cup challenger series and the America’s Cup match.

Mostly water events, they include Kiting, Club 420s, Paddleboards, Beachcats, etc. There has been a Land Sailing event too. And depending on how close the racing is this weekend for the start of the Louis Vuitton challenger finals, the fan focus could instead be on the AC OPEN “Un-Regatta” – the O’Pen BIC Hi-Wind Slalom.

To be sailed in O’pen BICs, the youth trainer for the more casual crowd, the event’s Notice of Race is consistent with the kind of fun this boat provides…

Important Event Introduction…
The purpose of this event is to showcase at the America’s Cup a new format for Youth Sailing in a fun, unorthodox, and loosely competitive style in dynamic junior boats. Results are not nearly as important as everyone having a good time sailing. It is our goal that everyone improves their skills, makes some new friends, and has a ton of fun. Don’t expect conventional round the buoys racing or upwind starts. Capsizes, freestyle, speed and fun will be required. If you are a hard-core racer with rule book in hand, this event may not be for you. If you want to just have fun and pioneer a new chapter in Youth Sailing…..game on!

Other information in the NOR…
Rule 1. All sailors are required to participate in the spirit of fun at all times. Violators of Rule Number One may be publicly embarrassed.
Rule 11. When all else fails, refer to Rule Number 1.

WARNING: Extreme levels of fun may be experienced during this event. Other sailing craft may appear less exciting after experiencing the O’Pen BIC.

Maybe this event should be called the “Un-America’s Cup”.