Leap of faith

Right up to the last moment Team Dennis Conner's team developed their magnificent giant C-Class Stars & Stripes in 1988 ­ without knowing whether the courts would allow them to defend the America's Cup against New Zealand's own monster challenger (below). Co-designers Duncan MacLane and Dave Hubbard describe a remarkable mission of sailing technology that was ultimately flawless in its execution

The history of the America's Cup took a decidedly different turn when New Zealand's Michael Fay unexpectedly challenged the San Diego Yacht Club in July 1987. The Kiwis had gone back to the barest terms in the Deed of Gift: submit a challenge, give 10 months' notice and declare the primary dimensions of your yacht. The San Diego Yacht Club, planning for a 1991 defence in 12-Meters, rejected this challenge. On 31 August, after starting construction on his huge 133ft yacht KZ-1, Michael Fay appealed to the New York Supreme Court. The Court issued their decision the day before Thanksgiving, declaring the New Zealand challenge valid and telling the San Diego Yacht Club to meet the challenge in 10 months or forfeit the Cup.

To read the remainder of this and many other topical technical articles, please purchase your copy of the February 2005 edition of Seahorse International Sailing, available at selected newsstands or by calling: + 44 (0) 1590 671899 or by email at: info@seahorse.co.uk

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