Jimmy Spithill on nationality rule, taking risks, and getting beat by his sister

Since winning skipper of the 34^th America’s Cup, Oracle Team USA skipper Jimmy Spithill has been busy on the talk show circuit in the U.S. There have been segments on The Colbert Report, The Tonight Show, and even the Howard Stern Show. He even took a chance with Reddit, a social news and entertainment website where users submit questions for his reply. Here are a few of his responses …

If they go for a nationality rule, will you take advantage of the fact that you’re married to a smokin hot American woman and get your citizenship here so you can race for us again?

Whatever it takes

You participate in some higher risk activities like flying upside down and SUPing between islands. Did you have any restrictions in your employment contract?

Yes, but I don’t usually follow them!

What is your favorite small boat to sail? Has this changed since you crossed over to the dark side and joined the multihullers?

The Moth. It gets better and better!

Seems like the only position on the 72s open to a girl would be driving. Do you think we will see that or a rule change to bring more gals into the mix?

There are plenty of awesome female athletes out there. One name that comes to mind is Anna Tunnicliffe

I heard your sister is a great match racer…think she can still take you?

She’d hammer me but never get the chance!

Any chance you will sail for Australia in the next Cup?

Who knows?

Hey Jimmy … I am not interested in sailing, but am now after watching the cut throat race with ETNZ – I was on the edge of my seat shouting at the TV!!! I cried when we lost … Do you see/socialise with Dean when you are in NZ?

I’m not expecting a Christmas card

Is there video from on-board the boat during the pitchpole? Any chance of getting a bloopers reel like after AC33?

No. No video from that. We lost all the GoPros. If they have washed up on a beach, let me know!

There was a comment on the telecast talking about making a rule that would require the boat to have a certain percentage of crew from that country, your thoughts?

I think people should be on the boats based on talent, not the color of their passport