Since 1851, before the Civil War, American sailors have held or challenged for the America’s Cup, a sailboat regatta to determine what nation or nation-syndicate is the best in the world. So, it was with some dismay last October that the New York Yacht Club, long the cup’s defender off record, declined to challenge in 2027. Yikes.
The American Magic program that had failed to win the cup in its last two editions put the program in mothballs. Done. No more millions from the program donors. No more American initiative. No more legacy of defending or challenging for what is called The America’s Cup, the oldest contested sport trophy in the world.
Into the breach, and at a very late date in the cycle of the 2027 Cup schedule, two well-heeled and avid sailboat racers stepped forward. They contracted with American Magic to buy their sailing assets. And, importantly, they engaged Kenny Reed, perhaps America’s best, and most accomplished all-around racing sailor, to CEO the program.
Scuttlebutt got Kenny to write about his decision to resign as CEO of North Sails after 13 years to lead the challenge and reflect of his commitment to the challenge’s future.
