While much has been said about the America’s Cup World Series whose 34th edition was recently concluded in Japan last weekend, there is much to talk about and to hear from the horse’s mouth, especially Sir Ben Ainslie who was the skipper of the Land Rover BAR team that took away the trophy.
Understandably, Ben and his team have gotten buoyed in their confidence levels considerably. They have been crowned as world champions in only two and half years of coming together as a team.
The goal, of course, now extends to the next forthcoming World Series event that will be held in Skiathos for the opening regatta in the months of May and June next year. As per Ben, the team would not be gearing up for facing the opponents in the qualifier rounds. Already an Oracle team of USA has been a known competitor in the forthcoming event. Ben also feels that it was a challenge to be competing against teams like Artemis Racing, Emirates Team NZ and Oracle Team USA. As all these outfits are well established and well funded, there was considerable pressure on Ben’s team to put in their best as well.
The series being won was a great challenge as they had to sail different boats. Even the next summer they would have to gear up in sailing in different boats. However, the win, they have garnered this year will give them the confidence of being able to work together on water as well as off it. Ben feels that they are on the right track as far as the upcoming Bermuda event is concerned. Ben also feels that the credit goes to everyone who have worked with them, from the coaches to fitness trainer as well as crew members who have worked on and off the boat in the different destinations.