Live Blog: America’s Cup Arrives In Bermuda

December 3, 2014

[Still updating on Wednesday] The America’s Cup Event Authority revealed yesterday [Dec 2] in a press conference in New York City that Bermuda has been selected to be home of America’s Cup in 2017, and the Cup is due to arrive in Bermuda today.

Following a motorcade from the airport to Hamilton, there will be a celebration on Front Street this evening, which is set to include the Bermuda Regiment Band, the Gombeys, fire dancer performances, live music, 3-cannon salute and a fireworks display.

“We are delighted to bring the 35th America’s Cup to Bermuda in 2017. Being home of the America’s Cup is an extraordinary opportunity that fits the heritage, profile, culture and future of Bermuda and its people,” said Premier Michael Dunkley.

Six teams are set to complete for the 35th America’s Cup, with the defending champion Oracle Team USA to be challenged by Artemis Racing from Sweden, Ben Ainslie Racing from Great Britain, Emirates Team from New Zealand, Luna Rossa Challenge from Italy as well as Team France.

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Comments (245)

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  1. Me says:

    I’m looking forward to this wonderful outcome…Tune in Bermuda! It’s our time to shine! We deserve this! And everyone must pull together, put politics & ego aside & make this an amazing experience for our visitors. Thank you.

    • Triangle Drifter says:

      I’d like to know why we DESERVE this? Hope it is not the Bermudian ‘entitlement’ attitude.

      We have ‘earned’ it through the hard work & negotiation of many people who have undertaken to make it a spectacular success here.

      Mess up & it won’t be back.

      • Me says:

        Yes, we deserve this through the hard work that Bermudians & Stakeholders have manifested by coming together. That’s all I was saying. No entitlement attitude just an attitude of gratitude. Have a great day triangle drifter. I know I will …

      • MAKE MY DAY says:

        The *Kiwis* are already unhappy about this decision!!! What if they don’t come??

        • hmmm says:

          Perhaps they need to rethink that, after Bermuda companies paying enormous amounts of money to them following the Quakes.

        • Allspice says:

          Calm down. See the goal. Quit bit@#ing.

    • Morals Matter says:

      Great news.

      How much will it cost us?

      • Forrest Gump says:

        Details to come this week.

      • Mr.Ed says:

        Cost us! — I can only say Nothing on the Advertising side — ABC,BBC,NBC,CNN,ESPN,FOX and any other major TV station
        will either Cover this Event or mention it. — just think about the Food/Drink/Trasportation/Acomodations just for the Media franzy alone.

        • hmmm says:

          Was on CNN and UK news yesterday too.

          • Bill says:

            Now been three days.Absolutely nothing on ESPN. Shows you how important they think it is.

        • guy says:

          That is not a satisfactory answer to the question. How much is this costing the Bermuda tax payer? There had to have been concessions made by the government otherwise the organizers would not have chosen Bermuda.

          What concessions have been made by the Bermuda Government? We have a right to know since it is our hard earned money that is going into supporting this event.

          • MAKE MY DAY says:

            *****BINGO*****….. There HAD to be some “back-door” deals for sure!!!

          • Trulytruly says:

            Details in the house on Friday and the following Friday. Can you wait?

    • Kunta says:

      Not my CUP of tea, no PUN intended but its good for de Island.
      I guess its like World Cup so I understand de excitement.
      Bring de $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$

  2. Um.... says:

    I think it’s coming here. News outlets in New Zealand are already saying how their team/government isn’t looking forward to the race being held here. Something about greater economic benefit for them in San Diego. Boo hoo. We’re hosting the Cup!

    • PBanks says:

      Well hopefully after further consideration the Kiwi contingent will see at least a glass half full situation and embrace the opportunity to compete over here.

    • MAKE MY DAY says:

      And what if the Kiwis don’t come over…. They are the MAIN competition for this cup!!!

      • Roy Rogers says:

        If the Kiwis are that upset then it would be in their best interest to challenge the cup as the defender chooses the next venue.

  3. kid t says:

    Bermuda Bermuda Bermuda Bermuda

  4. Quiet the Morning says:

    If we win the only question that needs to be asked is how much is it going to cost Bermuda.

    I hope we aren’t giving away the farm to have an 3 week event.

    • Not exactly says:

      3 week event? You are clearly unfamiliar with the scale of this thing. Those involved have done an excellent job managing expectations and god knows I hope we win. Pretty much all the privately funded teams will relocate to Bermuda shortly after the announcement to start training should we win. That means the teams and their families will be living, renting, schooling etc in Bermuda. That will go a ways to recover from the population exodus that started in 2010.

      Fear of giving away the farm is a potentially valid question, but do not confuse the effects of winning the full Cup with a mere three week economic uptick.

    • Silence Do Good says:

      Because of the bidding process the financial obligation has not been released. After today I hope the government will be transparent and release the numbers so every taxpaying Bermudian will know what it will cost them to see boats going around in a circle.

      I also hope to hear what the government believes (knows) what will be the financial benefits for Bermuda. I hope they used their business savvy to know for every dollar spent, promised, given in concessions means that we will double the cost in revenue. If this government used the old model of public sector funding for prestige (ego) in this time of austerity (shared sacrifice), they might as well call an early election because they have lost their minds.

      PS. The PLP has had their own prestige events also that cost taxpayers. No need apply either in the next election. Why is it so easy for these politicians not to be fiscally responsible? They would not act this way with their own business or personal finances. Next election only accountants and savvy business persons need apply.

      • Trulytruly says:

        Grant Gibbons anticipates 250 million injected into the economy over the next 3 years. Do you really think the govt has plans to spend more than that? This has an enormous upside for all of Bermuda. Get on board…the opportunities will be coming for many Bermudians.

      • Lois Frederick says:

        There will be a statement in the House on Friday when we will learn more details. The America’s Cup Legislation will be tabled too.

    • mike says:

      We are.

    • A Better Bermuda says:

      Let’s put your bruised PLP ego aside on this and celebrate a good thing for Bermuda! The money this is going to cost won’t come anywhere near what we’ve lost on Grand Atlantic and Port Royal etc. so calm down and move on

    • Bill says:

      3 week event?

      2 weeks max, and thats if the series goes the distance. First syndicate to get 8 races.At two races at least per day. You do the math.

      Could be over within a week.

  5. Commodore JB of BBIRYC says:

    The excitement that I have now is immensely. I’ve talked to Larry, my fellow billionaire, to tell him about the benefits of having this prestigious yachting event in Bermuda. I’ve even gone so far to offer all the team owners, officials and sailors honourary memberships to the prestigious BBIRYC. I believe this offer by me was crucial to have Bermuda considered to host the finals.

    • High road says:

      Clearly that must of been the selling point. you are too kind!

      • hmmm says:

        I don’t think your whole “Commodore JB of BBIRYC” pretense is funny, if you think you are a comedian you failed.

    • LMAO East West says:

      Can locals receive such treatment at RBYC or will the dogs be out?

      • Steve Davis says:

        The RBYC is 80% Local members?

        • Ian says:

          RBYC’s membership is hardly representative of the local populous…

          • Triangle Drifter says:

            True but what other club is more open to the public when big events are on such as the Newport race, the Marion Race or the Christmas Boat Parade? What other club is more open to non members kids in their sailing programs?

            The RBYC is way too rich for my bank account but that does not mean that I do not appreciate what they do.

            • mixitup says:

              “True but what other club is more open to the public when big events are on such as the Newport race, the Marion Race or the Christmas Boat Parade?”

              I personally have never step foot in that building.. You would be surpised how many Bermudians haven’t either

          • Steve Davis says:

            Are you saying their local members are not local? 80% of the club membership is local. Maybe the income of those individuals does not represent the local populous but that is why it is a prestigious private establishment.

            PLP logic= if your local and a member of the RBYC then your not Local.

            • Kunta says:

              In other words Oligarchal Heritage.

            • Ian says:

              Why is everything about OBA/PLP for you? Its like you have some sort of defect or condition of the brain…
              Those 80% locals you refer to are culturally just as foreign as the guys straight of the plane.

            • Morals Matter says:

              Bermuda is 75% people of colour? What is the % of colour members the RBYC?

              -1%?

              • Cafe Au Lait says:

                Anyone over 18 can apply to join the RBYC or any other club in Bermuda. Colour is not relevant or a requirement. If it was it would be against the law.

                If you find it is so you should report the case to the authorities. Otherwise you are just trying to make trouble where there is none.

                • Bermudian says:

                  You can apply but to any club but it doesn’t mean you’ll necessarily get in. I have personally experienced horrendous racism at one well known private club in Bermuda where I was jeered and called the ‘n’ word right to my face by two members. I don’t know if they were drunk or what (it didn’t look like it but I hope they were) but I couldn’t believe it-I felt like I wasn’t in Bermuda but the deep South somewhere. It was surreal and really upset me for the longest time.

                  I don’t want to make this a big race debate but I just wanted to point that out. Some of these places wouldn’t let some of us in if they had a choice.

              • MAKE MY DAY says:

                Whats with this “people of colour” thing?? You are either white or black!!

                Way too much BS today!!

              • Double D says:

                No different than the Workmen’s clubs and sports teams who are all segment of the island.

                Is that an issue as well? Or is it somehow different?

          • Kunta says:

            Sorry I’ve used up all my RACE cards !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

            • Cafe Au Lait says:

              Its – Allabout da race, bout da race.
              Its – Allabout da rcae, bout da race.

          • How it works says:

            So what !! So is every club in Bermuda !

  6. Raymond Ray says:

    Tic-toc…

  7. Septimus says:

    We need a national holiday to celebrate if we win! This is HUGE for Bermuda! Well done to all involved, no matter what the result.

    • Loquatz says:

      LOL, maybe not a holiday. Instead we need to start getting ready for it!

      • Kunta says:

        Sorry we all ready have our significant holiday, Cup Match.

        • A Better Bermuda says:

          Actually according to the stats release by the Cabinet office a few weeks ago, people of colour are 55% of Bermuda’s population but more importantly:

          HOW DID BERMUDA WINNING HE AMERICA’S CUP TURN INTO A CONVERSATION ABOUT COLOUR. OMG…some people are just sick sick sick

          • Cafe Au Lait says:

            Some ppl have to make it about race. It’s all they got.

            It’s allabout da race bout da race.
            It’s allabout da race bout da race.

    • Bermudian says:

      I agree, Septimus! I was thinking the same thing…

  8. Truth is killin' me... says:

    Don’t count the chickens before they’re hatched! WAAAAAIT FOR IT…

  9. Christopher James says:

    Sail Bermuda!! Fingers crossed.

  10. Student Abroad says:

    Go Bermuda!!!!!

  11. Cow Polly says:

    Berp…..Berp

  12. Encyclopedia says:

    Awesome !!

    Congratulations to everyone who worked hard to get this to Bermuda.
    Now please make this a huge success that benefits everyone and for well beyond the event itself.

    • Raymond Ray says:

      I totally agree with you “Encyclopedia”. This is a time to shine our light…Tic-toc. :-) Thanks to everyone that made this event come to fruition, “for all we’lot”

  13. Betty Rech says:

    Great News for Bermuda looking forward to the excitement

  14. Rhonnie aka BlueFamiliar says:

    Yes! Yes! Yes!

  15. Christopher James says:

    Yes Yes Yes! Fantastic news!

  16. Truth is killin' me... says:

    YEEEEEEEEEEEEEESSSSSSSSIIIIIIII BERMUDA!!!!!

  17. Concerned says:

    Bermuda, God has never left us nor has He forsaken us

    • Kunta says:

      What has this got to do with God, where was God when these politicians legislated biased laws.
      Don’t forget Satan was an angel of light, not everything glitter is gold.

      • A Better Bermuda says:

        Kunta..time to stay off the weed

        • LOL (Original TM*) says:

          Weed dont do that to a person. He might is on the special stuff………..

          LOL

      • hmmm says:

        Talking about the PLP hurting when they made Bermudians married to a non-Bermudian pay exhorbitant licence fees for the house they already own.

  18. lucky 7 says:

    Great job to everyone who was involved in this process and sealing the deal!!!

    Please, please all Bermudians can we put grudges and egos aside and work hard TOGETHER to welcome and impress these families with our kindness and happiness??

    • animallover says:

      Yes, I agree, let’s make this so stunning that they’ll never want to have it anywhere else in the world. Well done everyone involved, such a great success for us. WOW.

  19. Will See says:

    We got it!!

  20. Politricks says:

    Yessssss IIIIIIIII!!!!

  21. Tough Love says:

    This is excellent news! I’m excited. Well done BTA and the OBA! Looking forward to all this brings. I think this sounds like the jobs we were promised? Yes?

  22. Jeremy Deacon says:

    Wow, just wow. Who would ever have thought that Bermuda would host one of the world’s most prestigious, and largest, sporting events.
    Let’s all celebrate now – but then, when the last champagne cork has been popped, let’s all plan for how all of Bermuda can benefit.

  23. Somerset Boat Girl says:

    Yeah!!!!!!!!!!! Hip Hip Hooray!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  24. Starting Point says:

    Americas Cup
    Morgans Point
    Casino Legislation
    New Airport
    Arial Sands
    Green Familly and Princess properties

    …it would seem investors are interested in Bermuda again, I wonder what has changed?

    on another note, we need to contact Ben Ainslie and his UK team to get them set up in the prime location here, roll out the red carpet and give the UK team a bit of home field advantage!! That cup could stay here for ever, rolling over the investment that the sailing community offer to Bermuda!

    on another note, #BDAsailing – Bermudas real national sport.

    • Ian says:

      Change comes with time. Whats your theory? Casino legislation coming via broken promise on referendum, the Green’s were cutting massive checks before the last election, Morgans point started before the last election, new Airport is drenched in controversy and Americas Cup is ultimately the culmination of tireless efforts by Grant Gibbons and representatives of our islands completely understated sailing community.

      • A Better Bermuda says:

        Thank you for always making everything about race. I really fell sorry you

        • Ian says:

          Im sorry… race?? What?? Did you just catch YOURSELF out??

          • A Better Bermuda says:

            Apologies…this was my frustrated response to Kunta’s bigotry above

  25. bdaman441 says:

    How about we leave PLP OBA and all forms of politics out of this. How about we celebrate Bermuda and look at this as an opportunity to work together to show the members of the world that will be watching on island, on tv, on the internet how amazing our little paradise can really be.

    • Raymond Ray says:

      How about dat…wouldn’t it be great?

    • Justin says:

      No, we can’t do that because credit should be given where credit is due! The OBA have done a fantastic job here and should be congratulated.

      • Ian says:

        lol… the OBA did this?? Okay… Big difference between doing and endorsing.

      • Kunta says:

        Aahh so who was responsible for de PGA ?????????????????????????????????????????

        • aceboy says:

          That was the PLP. The first thing that happened was the move to Port Royal so that the 20 million shenanigans could be embarked upon. No more of that I hope. The PGA Grand Slam did not produce the benefits it promised. It is the LEAST watched tournament in golf no matter where held.

        • Raymond Ray says:

          A THOUGHT FOR TODAY:
          A belief in a supernatural source of evil is not necessary; men alone are quite capable of every wickedness. -Joseph Conrad, novelist (1857-1924)

        • A Better Bermuda says:

          The Mid Ocean Club actually brought the Grand Slam to Bermuda. Ewart came on board much later.

  26. haha says:

    THE BIGGEST OF THANK YOU’S TO GRANT GIBBONS… without him we wouldn’t have it!

  27. Triangle Drifter says:

    Uh Oh, things must be very gloomy in Alaska Hall today. Wait for it though. Give them a few days. They will find a way to turn this into a big negative for Bermuda. Betty & the clones are taking instructions on what to say.

    Thats OK. The rest of us are celebrating. The industrious ones are making plans on how to best cash in on the windfall of business coming our way.

    Don’t screw up Bermuda. This is make or break. These are ‘can do’ people. They don’t take poor service or excuses lightly. They pay 5 star prices & they demand 5 star service to go with the money.

    • Curious says:

      There has never been a better opportunity to put aside the partisan politics

      • Triangle Drifter says:

        True, it would be. But this is Bermuda so it won’t. Take a look at the next few posts down.

        Wish I was younger & still in the marine business. I’d be on the phone & online today contacting these syndicates to see how I could get involved & earn a few dollars instead of moaning about a rich mans sport on a forum. I’d be very happy to relieve them of some of their money for any services I might be able to provide.

        • Stunned... says:

          @ Triangle. I am an ordinary person with a small boat and accommodations by the sea. what opportunities do you see and the best way to follow up?

          • A Better Bermuda says:

            Day trips, charters, tours, renting out either. Shuttle to/from event

            • Stunned... says:

              Thank you for your suggestions @ Better Bermuda – this is how we help one another and make Bermuda Better.

              • Triangle Drifter says:

                So, go out, get your Bermuda pilots license, get your boat Marine & Ports compliant for commercial use & get insurance to cover commercial use.

                Easy.

              • Kunta says:

                Don’t forget its who you know and what circle you’re in.

                • hmmm says:

                  You know who you make the necessary effort to know.

                  That is a reality of life.

                • serengeti says:

                  Like if you were in the ‘right circles’ and knew exactly when to bring in those two limos, for example, just before the law got changed to allow for two limo licences?

    • CommonSensenBda says:

      I would agree. Just surprised that the Queen of Propaganda has not come out yet throwing feces on the OBA’s success in securing the America’s Cup…….wait for it!

      • Stunned... says:

        stop…focus on the positives.

      • Jo Blo says:

        It wasnt the OBA’s bid. Grant Gibbons was part of the group that made the bid… Stop making this about politics… The OBA has dont a great job and addressing the politics and creating a better business environment in certain critical ways. That doesnt traslate to everything awesome happening under there time in government being a result of the fact theyre in government…

        • Trulytruly says:

          Grant Gibbons represents the Govt. The OBA. Prem Dunkley accepted the invitation. This can only be seen as a Govt initiative. To pretend otherwise is incorrect. Congratulations to everyone who made this happen.

          • Ian says:

            Actually Grant Gibbons represented the Americas Cup Bid committee, which was also [and probably more critically so] represented by members of the local sailing community.

            • Lois Frederick says:

              Simply could not have been done without Govt. backing. Hardly needs to be said, but I did.

              • Ian says:

                Thats kind of obvious dont you think… You say that as if an alternative government would not have backed it…

                • hmmm says:

                  Are you saying”we would have done it too”

                  Well you didn’t ! Coulda shoulda woulda

                  Pathetic Ian.

                • A Better Bermuda says:

                  Ha…we’re not stupid

      • lucky 7 says:

        Oh she was voicing her distaste today… I heard her ignorant comments regarding the America’s cup

    • Ian says:

      Perhaps the most ignorant comment made so far…

  28. Just a matter of time says:

    I for one am not all that excited. It will be an elitist, exclusive closed circle event for the 1% with limited access for us common folk. This is a rich man’s playground event. I fear the same old rich,enfranchised few on this island will profit massively with the networking opportunities, etc while the same few crumbs fall to the rest. Constantly promoting jobs is the red herring and distraction I fear on a project that is so short term. What was the ‘trickle down’ effects from the PGA and those other sailing events? Not much information has been explained on EXACTLY how Bermuda will profit from this? Costs? Revenue? Anticipated number of jobs? Based on past experience with the OBA, transparency will NOT rule the day on this massive project which seemed to be won under dubious methods per the news agencies. I definitely will not trust the tendering process on this one if there will be any. I honestly wonder what this Govt really offered to them to secure this? I mean our teeny tiny island won this vs bigger cities with massively bigger budgets? Seriously? Time will tell but I am so not feeling this. I hope to be proven wrong after seeing how this develops. I will be watching and waiting.

    • Stunned... says:

      all i can suggest is to try to be a part of the solution and that usually has a funny way of creating some enthusiasm.

    • Portia says:

      Very true. There is a reason that Gibbons refused to say exactly what we offered to host this event, because I am sure, that once the truth comes out, many will balk at exactly what has been promised. There is a reason why San Fran dropped out of the running. The massive amount of debt that venues have to go into to host this thing is ridicuous – only to still come out in the red.

      Ultimately, the average man will receive little benefit, if any, from this event – except for a block party and motorcade(???)

      • LiarLiar says:

        Refused? All bidders were under a non-disclosure agreement. Guess you never have been part of such a consortium? Why would any party reveal their hand publicly when their competitors are trying to outbid them?

        If the event is such an albatross why did 12 other cities/countries initially try and win the bid? Why did Dan Diego continue right up until the end and then complain when they didn’t get it?

        Jesus, you partisans are simple-minded, sick and truly anti-Bermudian in every sense of the word.

      • Raymond Ray says:

        @Portia The average man / woman will receive far more than what you perceive. Believe me, everyone will prosper from having this event here in Bermuda. For starters, jobs and $ in peoples pockets etc.

    • LiarLiar says:

      No matter what the OBA does I am sure you will ‘still not feel it.’

      Such partisanship does that to a person.

  29. Robbie Butters says:

    I may be a bit naive and out of the loop but what is the Americas Cup?

    • Triangle Drifter says:

      Much more exciting than cricket & faster than soccer. No cry babys in this sport.

      • Kunta says:

        Its an elitist sport for the wealthy and a social event for business networking.

        • A Better Bermuda says:

          Good stay the heck away…the last thing Bermuda needs is someone so full of hate and racism to be associated with the rest of us.

  30. Stunned... says:

    to take a few words out of the song “Togetherness” by Square One – I say to all people in Bermuda:

    “The war must done. The fussing and the fighting and the war must done. Come leh we live as one…”

    • Kunta says:

      We will never live as one, we will tolerate with each other but that’s as far as it goes’ just because we have a few $$$ thrown at us we must make believe that we’re buddy buddies and what happens when it all over, de elite group will associate with their group and de average citizen will continue to be de pawn in de chess game.

      • whatindeheck says:

        somebody needs a whhaaaambulance.

        Oh woe is us we are treated so badly we deserve so much more.

        Meanwhile in the real world labourers are licking their chops at all the added building work, tourism etc.

      • A Better Bermuda says:

        Kunta. you are the definition of entitlement

  31. Darryl says:

    Wo hooo….Jam Bermuda, Jam Bermuda….What a great economic boost…

  32. Just a matter of time says:

    And how many of these ‘jobs’ will go to Bermudians vs so-called key men personnel resulting in hiring loads of foreigners? This America’s Cup organization or whatever will be calling the shots regarding how things should be built to their specifications right? How many of their own people they can bring in to build as part of the deal? WE DON’T KNOW ANYTHING! What are the costs?? How does Govt benefit? I will be watching intently to see how the jobs and costs pan out. Again, I hope to be proven wrong but I am so sensitized to Bermudians being displaced time and again with such headlliner opportunities. I hope it will be as fantastic as people think it will be.

    • A Better Bermuda says:

      Just a matter of time: Your sense of entitlement jumps of the page. Instead of watching intently why don’t you just ask some of these people to just give you some of their money. Heck, I mean why earn it? Why try and better yourself?

    • A Better Bermuda says:

      Member of a union?

  33. Stunned... says:

    Togetherness:
    - time to put away the knife and gun
    - stop trashing the island and start picking up after ourselves
    - be hospitable and provide service with a smile
    - be helpful
    - practice love and unity – one big family, tegetherness
    - take pride in our island home

    • Raymond Ray says:

      It’s time to put those that are in prison for not paying a fine/s or petty crimes out on the streets and trail ways to pick up the rubbish we see laying about :-(

      • Raymond Ray says:

        Allow me to be a bit more explicit. There had been times when inmates from all Correctional Institutions were taken out of them facilities under the supervision of Correctional Officers to various locations Island-wide to do various chores, i.e. clearing trails and beaches of debris as well as loading Govt. trucks with the stone that had once been cut in the quarry (out at Ferry Reach) it had been a savings all round for the Govt.
        I believe it is time to re-introduce this into the Correctional Facilities I don’t mean pacifically, allowing them who are near being release out to work but everyone able-body to be a part of “X” amount doing these types of jobs…At $ 80:000 per year to house a prisoner don’t you think they should earn their keeps? If it is true that it’s against the “Law” to put inmates out to work then it’s time to change back them Laws!

  34. A Better Bermuda says:

    Just a matter of time: YAWN!!!!!!! This is great news try at least try and pretend you want whats best for Bermuda and not just for your party.

  35. serengeti says:

    The naysayers – and we know who they are, Robert etal, must be feeling pretty silly right now.

  36. #bermylivin says:

    Too many negative views already. This is gonna give Bermuda her buzz back. Great job by the committee, only good can come of this.

  37. Just a matter of time says:

    To Robbie. From what I understand it is an EXTREMELY rich man’s sailing event (about 5 or 6 teams average no more than 10). This year the teams will be taking on the last winner, a software billionaire named Larry Ellison. The entrance fee to compete in this event is a MINIMUM of $2 million per challenger/team!! 2007 had 11 challengers. 2013 had only 3 teams! They usually sail in the Pacific in San Francisco Bay. For the first time I believe they are sailing on this side of the world outside of the US hence the good thing is it will put Bermuda on the map. But again, what are the costs and really, what is it that we are seeing as an event and what are we building for? Are they sailing around the Great Sound or something? What did this Govt offer to secure this major deal? Wondering minds wish to know.

    http://tvnz.co.nz/sailing-news/america-s-cup-deadline-comes-only-five-challengers-6062014

    • serengeti says:

      You don’t really know anything at all about it, do you.

      • Person who knows a little says:

        No this guy has absolutely no idea what he is talking about. He thinks because he took 5 minutes to Google he knows everything. Yes, it is a elitist event, but seriously why are u complaining about a bunch of wealthy people coming her and spending their money here?Also your point on the amount of teams. The reason it went from 11 teams in 2007 to 2 in 2010 was because of a massive lawsuit. Also the Americas cup only just returned to the stats in the last edition.It has only been sailed for in the pacific 7 times of those 7, 4 where in the states the rest were New Zealand and Fremantle. Every other Edition of the cup was held in Eastern US and Valencia except for the very first challenge.But enough of proving u don’t know anything about the cup. Yes it will be sailed in the sound because that is one of the few places we have that offer the space as well as a good view.

        • Santa says:

          Some people just want rich foreigners to send money here without coming.

  38. Just a matter of time says:

    Outside of the obligatory public parties Govt will throw and other closed event VIP cocktail gatherings for the elite being thrown around this etc, this event sounds kinda boring. Great for sailing enthusiasts I suppose which the majority of Bermudians are not. My skepticism is really peaked today I know.

    • Stunned... says:

      the elite can come here any day and spend money; I will be glad to have them.

    • serengeti says:

      “Outside of the obligatory public parties Govt will throw and other closed event VIP cocktail gatherings for the elite..”

      Hilarious. PLP supporters are against parties and elite VIP cocktail gatherings? Those things were a hallmark of the PLP government.

  39. Just a matter of time says:

    To A Better Bermuda. LOL! Yes, I can pretend very well. Yaay Go Bermuda! See?.. Seriously, I wish for this to go as well as is hoped.

    • LiarLiar says:

      You’re a simple partisan, not a bermudian.

      You’re hatred is boring now.

      • Privilliaged says:

        Overseas privileged are setting themselves up. Saw on FB where visitors from California, San Diego are over the moon AC is not in the USA bu

        • Privilliaged says:

          because they won’t have to pay US TAX. They’re laughing all the way to the bank. joke on us

    • A Better Bermuda says:

      Yawn. You’re right all this success is a waste of time when we could all be fishing off a dock for a living.

  40. Just a matter of time says:

    LiarLiar so what you’re saying is that my questioning how this Govt secured this deal does not make me Bermudian and I’m a hater now? Stop throwing stones from your pathetic glass house, you don’t know me.

    • LiarLiar says:

      They procured the event through hard work, sheer determination and of course incentives. That is how the real world works as opposed to your ‘we are Bermuda so we want your money/investments on our terms’ attitude.

      Despite what you, Portia or any other partisan zealot thinks, this will be a great opportunity for Bermuda as a whole. Look at the Greens’ $1mn announcement just after the Cup announcement. Plenty more of that to come.

      Look if you don’t agree with the event, then simply don’t partake or assist in ensuring that is a successful venture. But don’t take everyone with your constant negativity borne out of your partisan zeal that has been ingrained into you over the years.

      Like I said your pettiness and hatred is just boring now. So yes while I don’t know you personally I know plenty of people just like you that can’t see past their ‘teams colors’ to view what is good for Bermuda.

      Stop being a partisan and start acting like a Bermudian.

      • Stunned... says:

        It’s all good…asking questions regarding how much the event will cost or how the deal was secured etc. doesn’t make anyone more partisan or less Bermudian.

        What matters is the intent of asking the questions. Is it to understand or merely to cast doubt on the efforts to date.

        • foldgers says:

          I agree.. I am very pleased that we are hosting and even if one does not know about the Americas Cup, the publicity for Bermuda is more than obvious. The nay sayers really should question where their negativity is coming from. I t was just announced.. already the negatives are trying. Pople like that should be ignored. Well done to the team who secured this event. Best wishes for all of the island

    • Dude says:

      if you want us to “know” you, then please feel free to stop using a pseudonym

  41. Terry says:

    And would all the a**howlz be saying if it were not awarded to Bermuda.
    Two years to go. Lets see what happens with such negativity coming from bloggers.

    Only takes a ship to turn around and drop them in San Diego.

    Shalom.

  42. Truth is killin' me... says:

    Hmmmm…salt spray and champagne bubbles all around!

  43. doggystyle says:

    This is the best day that i can remember in bermuda what a blessing to host this event.

  44. Quid pro quo says:

    Congratulations Bermuda !!

    This is a fantastic opportunity for us as a country to showcase our island and capitalize off the increased visibility it will provide.

    For my sad fellow Bermudians who are already moaning about how not everyone will benefit – here’s an idea for you. Do you work in a sector directly impacted by the money that will be spent here ? Would you like to?

    The main event happens in 2017. That’s months and months for you to plan – start your own business. Find a way to make what works for the one percent work for you. Even if it means opening an old fashioned snowball stand near spectators – be creative! Start printing Americas Cup Tshirts, create a website guiding tourists to all the little known gems of Bermuda, perfect your codfish cake recipe and sell codfish cakes, become a local tour guide and offer services …You don’t have to be a millionaire or a rocket scientist to do any of these things.

    We live in an island that still has opportunities for people who are willing to A) be creative B) think outside the box C) work for what you want! There are people young and old in our papers recently doing just that.

    The world will be watching, thousands of people will be visiting. What more of an opportunity do people want?

    There is no doubt that someone (hotels, taxi drivers, small guest houses, charter boats(!) etc WILL profit off this. Why not you?

    Let’s try and be positive for once – collectively we CAN make this work for us.

    • Stunned... says:

      Great ideas. Putting in 2017 vacation request now…putting thinking cap on.

  45. Devonshire is Best says:

    This is an amazing victory for Bermuda. Those that are saying that this is for the elite make me smile. I, personally, have sailed in the Argo Gold Cup with the likes of Tim Patton, Penny Simmons and Jordy and Blythe Walker. This is the pinnacle of a major sporting event. HERE in Bermuda. We could never host the pinnacle of Cricket, Football or Track and Field (ICC World Cup, FIFA World Cup or IOC Olympics) but we are HOSTING the “Auld Mug” in Bermuda. The sheer speed of the AC65s is enough to excite most of Bermuda. We all flock to the round the island race, we like SPEED. This is the fastest water racing that marries to our heritage. There would be NO AC65s or AC45s (we get Sailing World Series too) if it was not for the Bermuda Rig.

    Get happy about the fact that we have proven our mettle AGAIN. We have shown the world our talent AGAIN. We have bested the world AGAIN because we provide IN BERMUDA what the world wants.

    If you want to get a taste of what is to come here watch this http://youtu.be/rv6fLsz7Mk4

    We have to thank all those that worked tirelessly to make this happen. Now if we can get down to the tremendous amount of work that needs to be done, we have hotels to expand (Greens upped their budget by 1 million because of this annoucement), Hotels to build and staff and possibly a brand new airport to accept our visitors and families. Get excited Bermuda this is an opportunity to prosper if we desire. #TeamBermuda

  46. Steve Davis says:

    Nail in the PLP coffin! The marches will start on cue, the BIU strikes to shortly follow.

    • Raymond Ray says:

      For what reason will the Union marchers start? No reason for that nor for the Opposition to kick-up $***? This will be the opportunity everyone has been looking forward to. Jobs will be plentiful. There will be hotels / guesthouse and private homes that wish to take advantage of the opportunity and put a few dollars in the bank. All can / will benefit. The advertizments worldwide will bring people from the four corners of the world to celebrate with us here in balmy Bermuda. Yes, the time has come to look forward to a better future for all!

    • PBanks says:

      … so much for the proposal to keep silly political crap out of this article…

  47. real talk says:

    Lets just hope the unions dont try no bs to mess the transportation.

    • Stunned... says:

      @real talk. Hopefully the transportation will be privatized or deemed ‘essential services’ with severe penalties for wildcat strikes and sickouts/walkouts.

      • Triangle Drifter says:

        No worries. From Dockyard charterboats & tourboats can get most anywhere AC people might want to go. The ferrys, buses & taxis really are not needed. On land mini buses will gladly jump in & get the business.

        • Alex says:

          Not true. The current infrastructure suffers to cope with 9,000 tourists arriving via ship in Dockyard. San Francisco estimated over 700,000 visitors during the 2013 America’s Cup. While I doubt we will have anywhere near that many visitors, our current PTB and Seaexpress system is not in a position to efficiently transport the number of visitors AC35 will bring, even when supplimented with the private sector.

  48. Just a matter of time says:

    LiarLiar: “They procured the event through hard work, sheer determination and of course incentives”. Ahh the ‘incentives’. Sheer determination? Money easily talks. Your ad nauseam mentioning of partisan politics aside, aren’t you just a little bit curious as to what these ‘incentives’ are? This is looking like the classic “The Emperor’s New Clothes’ fairytale. Pitch out the ‘jobs’ (which we don’t know yet) as the distraction and not show the naked truth underneath. What are these so called incentives??? Taxpayers want to know!

    • A Better Bermuda says:

      You are one very sick twisted puppy. Taxpayers also want to know about the $20m at Port Royal but you, People’s Campaign, Marc, BTUC etc. are all disgustingly hypocritically silent about that. The costs will be announced in due course.

    • Lois Frederick says:

      Was that you on the radio this afternoon going on about the Emperor’s new clothes? This is a game changer for Bermuda. Get on board.

    • serengeti says:

      And how did we entice Beyoncé?
      We paid her a million bucks for an hour’s work.

  49. Just a matter of time says:

    bdaman441: “How about we leave PLP OBA and all forms of politics out of this. How about we celebrate Bermuda and look at this as an opportunity to work together to show the members of the world that will be watching on island, on tv, on the internet how amazing our little paradise can really be”

    Agreed. For now.. :)

  50. Mr. Meoff says:

    Great news Bermuda. Cant wait to see these state of the art sailing machines race in our Great Sound. This will be huge for our little Island home.

  51. Just a matter of time says:

    To Person Who Knows a little: Thanks for the additional info but in essence you pretty much repeated what I already said. So searching in Google is bad now? Was the Google link incorrect in its content? Let me know what was incorrect. I never ‘claimed’ to know everything. That’s what I am trying to do, learn more about this. Too bad you took offense to it. At least you agreed that it was an elitist event, guess I was right there huh?

    • hmmm says:

      How is it elitist… I watched the last one on Cable. Wow am i therefore elitist????

      Nah, I’m still me.

      • ImJustSayin says:

        they are the ones who benefit from it the most. Come on don’t be so nieve. Put your brain in gear.

  52. CommonSensenBda says:

    The Great Defender is now the Great Detractor. Just heard her pouring shiite on the America’s Cup success by the OBA.

    I remember the complaint that there was not enough construction projects.

    What projects are now going to be underway?

    The former Club Med
    Pink Beach Hotel
    Arial Sands
    Hamilton Princess
    Morgan’s Point
    (Lantana)

    The “Family”, I expected you to pour cold war on this news…..as usual, you did not disappoint.

  53. just wondering says:

    get thing for Bermuda but to be honest I wonder how on earth we will house all the people who want to/need to come here – I may be repeating what others have said but I cant help being concerned that we might have bitten off more than we can chew – I hope I am wrong

    • And so? says:

      5000 people have left the island. We have enough capacity to house the influx. Just ask all those landlords with empty places.

  54. Common cent$ says:

    These current arguments/conversations not pertaining to the victory Bermuda just achieved- please ignore. Congratulations and let the economic revitalization begin. Go ahead and tell any construction worker, hospitality worker, restaurant worker, taxi driver, security guard, etc- that this isn’t a great new beginning for Bermuda- open our arms and welcome this, and we will prosper

  55. tom cooke says:

    Can you imagine an around the island race by two of these boats.. records would be smashed… can you see them going down north Shore at 60 plus miles an hour…
    Just remember the cup has ALWAYS been elites. .. as they are the only ones that can afford it…

    • hmmm says:

      Called getting sponsorships, backers and hard graft to put a team together.

      those folks just didn’t turn the lights on one day.

  56. Double M says:

    Sweet! Will jet skis be banned from the course?

    • PBanks says:

      I suspect anyone who dares to take a jetski anywhere near those machines will be promptly arrested, heavily fined and shamed across the island.

      • Alex says:

        There will be a significant exclusion zone around the race course. Spectator boats won’t be getting close to these boats!

  57. ImJustSayin says:

    Big deal. I’ve got other more important things to do and worry about then some glorified sail boat race.

    • Triangle Drifter says:

      Get on with them then. More room for the rest of us to watch without you there. Enjoy your wall sitting.

    • Lois Frederick says:

      Let me know when you have finished crocheting that cat. I’ll be busy with all the America’s Cup preparations around the island. Don’t you know it’s going to be the biggest event Bermuda has ever seen. Lots to do over the next 3 years to get ready.

  58. Just a matter of time says:

    Just read the revenue stats when AC34 was in San Fran. Very encouraging. Hope AC35 in Bermuda produces the same and the playing field is leveled, the tendering processes are transparent and all Bermudians benefit not just a chosen few and that Bdian workers come first. 2017 is a politically strategic year interestingly enough. Let the games begin!

  59. Bermudian says:

    Congrats to my island home! Thank you to all who were involved in making this happen. Cannot wait for all the excitement and anticipation leading up to it! I hope all Bermudians see this as a great opportunity for us to shine.

  60. Mark says:

    Wow@! and what did we get from too many years of PLP ineptitude? Beyonce for Doc and Faith based something or other.

  61. Well done says:

    Well done OBA ! They can’t slander your promise about job creation for much longer. Now let’s get us outta this deficit that PLP I mean Ewart Brown put us in

  62. Oh,I see now says:

    We all know that fresh cash is our problem this is a small start to the future.Naysayers will complain if dying of thirst and they had to pour the glass of water for themselves.No I’ll go one better how about you sit on your lazy a$$ and let the government you despise mail your check to you.You will cry if it rains and cry if it doesn’t.

  63. Porter says:

    Congrats to Bermuda. This has been a long time coming. Finally a chance to put the island on the world stage where it belongs. Much appreciation should be shown to those at RBYC who’s management of the Gold Cup and Newport (especially over the last few years) to Bermuda race help further establish our credibility in the sailing world.
    This is a time to celebrate, and more importantly a time to get to work! Which is something a lot of people have been itching to do, but lacked the opportunity because of our stifling economy.
    OBA, and all parties involved, please manage this properly so that it lives up to everything you are saying it will be.Please focus on the legacy as much as the actual event, so that afterwards the venues and accomodations can continue to keep Bermuda on the world stage.
    Educate the population on what the bid entailed, why we were selected, what concessions we gave, what it will cost us, and what we will get in return. Please do not just make promises and expect us to live off of hype.
    Bermudians support one another, think of new business ideas, keep the island clean and do whatever you can to make the most of this opportunity. These next 3 years can be most important 3 years we have had in a long time.

    Good Luck to all of Bermuda

  64. Terry says:

    If this is the ‘real’ cup where will it be kept for the next 2 years.
    Must be gonna cost a pretty penny for security.

    • Triangle Drifter says:

      It is worthless really. If you stole it, whatcha gonna do with it? It is not like it is made of anything valuable. If it is stolen you can’t show it off to anyone. You can’t brag about having it.

      It is like any other sporting cup. Some poor sucker has to keep it clean for the next guy.

      • Creamy says:

        Well, looking at it like that, a picture by Picasso is “worthless”. It’s not made of anything valuable, and who are you going to show it to? It’s a wonder any art ever gets stolen, using that logic.

        • Triangle Drifter says:

          Sorry Creamy, art is a commodity. It is quite legal to buy & sell it to the highest bidder. Stolen art, or anything else, can be sold off provided it is not too well known. The Tucker cross is still somewhere. If it were ever to reappear in the public domain somebody would recognise it real quick.

          The cup is not for sale. If it were stolen what could be done with it?

  65. Joonya says:

    Have we had any official comments from the PLP on this??

    • PBanks says:

      The Opposition Leader made comments yesterday, if that counts for anything.

    • A Better Bermuda says:

      Only that the march should have also been on Court St

  66. Better Bermuda says:

    damn….even the trophy arrives on private jet !!

    • Karma says:

      Why? It’s not a political event.

    • PBanks says:

      To be fair, I couldn’t imagine something like that being carried around on Delta, for example

    • Terry says:

      I cann hir it nah….
      Whoo paid four det jatt.
      Whoo waz hornbord……
      Waz det ah Canadian Cannonier 2013?

      I neeid ah rumh….

    • Gun Slinger says:

      The plp will classify that as Auld Mugate? ;)

    • Cow Polly says:

      And it’s own Louis Vuitton carrying case!

  67. A Better Bermuda says:

    The process to privatise/mutualize public transportation, parks and other areas that are critical to making this a success needs to start NOW

  68. Cafe Au Lait says:

    Better Bermuda: I believe you are 100% correct. If there is one way we are moat likely fail with the America’s Cup it will be because our transport.

    In Particular because:

    1. Public transport is not sufficient in numbers or frequency.
    2. We don’t rent cars – only scooters which many feel unsafe on.
    3. We have a taxi service which is quite possibly the worst in the world.

    The question is, what are we going to do? Doing nothing will guarantee that we fail. Our current transportation is simply not good enough and hasn’t been for many years.

    • Triangle Drifter says:

      These teams are going to want their own transport. They are going to want their own trucks etc. They are going to want their own cars. They will not have time fooling around with Bermuda beaurocracy getting a Bermuda drivers license.

      What happens when some stoked on power Government board says NO? What happens when that board demands proof that they need that truck & it will take months of back & forth with them?

  69. Terry says:

    Love the last photo of Chris Furbert.
    I pray for the sake of Bermuda he works with everyone as he has so much control.
    You can do it Chris for all of us.
    Shalom.

  70. Think twice says:

    Instead of waiting for the event to benefit you, get involved in a positive manner and make it benefit you. Take advantage of the opportunity being basically handed to you by the organizers.
    Comments about elitists, the reality is they will be here and if we treat then right they will be parting with their elite dollars to benefit this island, the whole island!

  71. Terry says:

    Whoo paid four dee Minneez.
    Damn……….

  72. ImJustSayin says:

    So you’ve got this trophy that you can’t touch with your bare hands. Driven around in a car for all to gawk at in admiration. It’s a form of idol worship. And it’s sad that all of those folks don’t realize what their doing. And the church don’t have a clue. I’m Just Saying.

    • Steve Davis says:

      Rationally thinking people don’t go to Church!

    • PBanks says:

      So I take it you avoid Cup Match, the FA Cup, and every single sports or entertainment competition there is? Awesome.

      Strange that you believe that people here worship trophies vs simply admiring them.

  73. Coffee says:

    In Bermuda … When it rains ,, it pours ! Anyway I still have my raincoat that I bought and never used in San Francisco . Will I need it in Bermuda ?

  74. ????? says:

    How long are the teams going to be in Bermuda?????

    • Bill says:

      Three weeks max

      • A Better Bermuda says:

        Errr… Up to four year…Bill if you don’t know the answer than why make sh!t up?

        • Lois Frederick says:

          Bill is pouring cold water for some reason…

      • Lois Frederick says:

        Hogwash. Teams will start arriving next year. Each team has up to 300 people. In other words their families including children will be living here with children going to school. Tech teams, managers etc. The teams have to get familiar with the sailing conditions here to have chance of winning. If the challenger races are held here it will be 3 months of sailing, with sailing and rest days alternating.

    • Barracuda says:

      Team Oracle will be here in January

  75. Oh,I see now says:

    I am already thinking of ways to get my tiny sliver of the pie because I have already done the ground work to be in position to take advantage.

    So glad I did not sit on my a$$ and wait for people to spoon feed or leave me anything.

  76. Common Sense says:

    Just got back from the Front Street event which was a resounding and popular success from start to finish. The only trouble was there were so many people down there it was hard to see what was going on! Very enthusiastic , supportive crowd, the Regiment and H&H Gombeys were great, and everyone seemed to enjoy the fireworks. What a fabulous start to what will no doubt prove to be the biggest event we have ever witnessed in Bermuda. And if we can pull this one off who knows what other events we can host going forward. Make no mistake, the eyes of the World will be on us.

  77. PANGAEA says:

    Model Yachting, part of our Sailing Heritage.

    Did you know there are several Model Yacht sailing classes here in Bermuda.

    Sailing Radio controlled model yachts has been very active in Bermuda for many decades as it is a year round hobby for many sailing enthusiasts.

    TRADITIONAL A/C
    25/30… traditional 59 inch long heavy displacement very elegant 12 meter America Cup one design model yachts, known as the East Coast 12 meter.

    REPLICA A/C
    4… light displacement 26 inch long replica ( A/C) now “Cup Racer” known as the CR914 one design model yacht replicas ,origin from down under.

    EXPERIMENTAL MODERN
    30… I.O.M. “International one meter” very fast experimental class sailed competitively all over the world .

  78. watching you says:

    Will OBA hold any events in north Hamilton? Let’s see if they are really for ALL Bermudians and not for just for a few.

    • Cafe Au Lait says:

      Watching you: I think you are confused. The OBA is for all Bermudians and they have proved it by getting the Americas Cup – which everyone can benefit from.

      By comparison, the PLP were all for themselves. They brought us Beyonce – she left the next day. The America’s cup will be the biggest event in our history and will stay with us always. It is ours to make a success – or failure.

      There is quite literally an opportunity for everyone here – except those who choose to do nothing but complain.

  79. Lois Frederick says:

    It’s amazing that you can already hear the spin coming out. Lead by Marc Daniels. Disappointed again in you Marc. You are better than that.

  80. Oh,I see now says:

    Those in North Hamilton who want a piece of the pie will get a piece of the pie if they go after it.