They had a 'magic' win in 1995, raised the bar in 2000, and history repeats in 2021 with Emirates Team New Zealand backing up their Cup win in 2017 with an extraordinary defense on home waters in 2021. Congratulations Emirates Team New Zealand on your America's Cup victory!
The America's Cup, the oldest trophy in international sport, dates back to 1851 when the yacht America beat the best of the British fleet in a race around the Isle of Wight, U.K. The trophy won on that day was donated in trust through a Deed of Gift and has since become a symbol of immense achievement. In its 167 year history, only four countries have managed to win the America’s Cup making it perhaps the hardest title to capture in sport.
Almost as exciting as the America's Cup racing this year has been the dance of the helicopters, designed to bring you as close as possible to what it's like to race an AC75.
"You have the latest in technology and camera systems," says Tony Monk. "You've got two choppers, you've got the best in the world in linking gear."
Matt Connor of AMIS Productions added, "We can be flying 120 knots and it's still absolutely rocks solid!"
In addition to the helicopters equipped with SHOTOVER Systems M1s, the camera chase boat is a recycled Emirates Team NZ catamaran that was converted to keep up with AC75's nearing 100 kph and kitted out with a SHOTOVER M1 as well. Watch below as Adam Brown of AMIS Productions gives a behind the scenes look at the chase boat.
"There's no other boat like this in the world," says Clint Jones of America's Cup Events. "It really is a show-off of everything great about New Zealand marine and New Zealand innovation." The Kiwis involved with the America's Cup really are making it New Zealand's Cup.