History of the America's Cup - The Championship of Yachting

Racing has been around for centuries and can take many different forms. From the earliest days of chariot races to foot races to horse races, racing has been a part of our history. While racing can take place in a number of different locations, it is not just on the land. Racing on the water has been a part of our history for many years.

Racing in the water can take many forms including swimming, rowing and racing speed boats. However, one of the most notable forms of racing on the water is racing yachts and sailboats. Racing yachts can be traced back to the 17th Century where boats were used in races. But, one of the most famous races involving yachts is the America’s Cup.

The America’s Cup is a regularly held yachting race that begin in 1851 which took place between the New York Yacht Club and the Royal Yacht Squadron. Generally the races are held every three or four years. The race takes place when one yacht club issues a challenge to the defending champion.

Over the years, many notable people have been involved in the America’s Cup, either as a skipper of the yacht or as a source of funding for the craft. Famous people involved included J. Pierpont Morgan, Sir Thomas Lipton, Cornelius Vanderbilt III and Ted Turner. Involvement of these famous people have helped make the America’s Cup a well known event.

With the next America’s Cup scheduled for Bermuda in 2017, we have put together the following information and resources to learn more about yacht racing’s crown jewel – The America’s Cup.