Patrizio Bertelli’s idea of launching a challenge in the America’s Cup was born between 3 February and 4 February 1997 in the studio of naval architect German Frérs in Milan. In a short time Bertelli chose the other key men of the team: the designer Doug Peterson, the sailing ace Torben Grael, the skipper Francesco de Angelis. He bought three IACCs: USA 28 Kanza, USA 43 Might Mary, and USA 23 America³. Punta Ala, in Tuscany, was preferred as the team’s Italian base, where the sea and wind conditions were closest to those of the Hauraki Gulf in New Zealand, the scene of the regattas. On April 21, 1997, the president of the Yacht Club Punta Ala, Bruno Calandriello, formally launched the challenge to the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron holders of the America’s Cup. Training began on July 4, 1997.
Contact Info
Address:
Località il Porto, 58043 Punta Ala GR, Italy
Phone: 0039 0564 923232
Email: ycpa@ycpa.it
Website: www.ycpa.it