As stated on the official site: "The America’s Cup, sailing’s pinnacle event, is the oldest and arguably the most difficult trophy in the world to win. For the first time in its history, the 166 year old competition will be hosted in Bermuda."Living in Bermuda has given us the privilege of participating in a world event that we would never have had otherwise. America's Cup only comes round every four years and always in a part of the world where we have been unable to go. Now, here it is - on our doorstep - how could we not attend! Starting on May 26th through June 27th 2017, it has the whole island in its grip.
All the harbours are filled with yachts, sailboats and megayachts from around the world. Visitors are everywhere, and hotels and restaurants are filled to capacity. Flags fly everywhere. The excitement is almost palpable - smiling faces abound, music is in the air.
The event itself is at Dockyard. The American team US Oracle has been here for the last four years and we have often seen them out on the seas practicing and training on every sunny day that presents itself. Now the teams from New Zealand, France, England, Japan and Sweden have set up camp as well. The yachts are amazing to look at - catamaran style - but so far advanced in technology and design that they are a set apart from every other yacht I have ever seen. Dockyard has been extended and refurbished to accommodate all the visitors. Special events have been organized. Huge tv screens are everywhere for those of us who don't have VIP seats. We loved watching the yachts perform their choreographed moves - looking so much like dancers on waves. We had prime spots at the sea wall to watch the finish of each race. I was cheerleading for US Oracle - they have done so much for children's education on the island. Patrick was rooting for England.
Sadly neither of us won - New Zealand took the cup and unfortunately for Bermuda, will take the event to New Zealand.
Nice to have another bucket list item checked.
