On Monday evening, 20 April 2009, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, hosted an information forum to discuss the possibilities of the re-establishment of the Admiral’s Cup. Approximately 35 CYCA members, guests and interested parties, heard from Royal Ocean Racing Club (RORC) CEO Eddie Warden Owen.

Eddie Warden Owen provided a brief update on RORC and the major events associated with the club including the Rolex Commodore’s Cup, Rolex Fastnet Race, the Admiral’s Cup and a new event –  the Royal Caribbean 600.

Owen advised that the re-establishment of the Admiral’s Cup is planned for 2011 with racing occurring around the Solent, off the Isle of Wight. It was suggested that the event be undertaken by two boat teams, representing one country (with possible multiple entries from individual countries) and it would be run under the IRC handicapping system to maximize attendance.

Representation is expected from the USA, Hong Kong, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Germany, Russia & the UK.

The racing format of the Admiral’s Cup would be based on a week long regatta with a strong emphasis on offshore racing with at least one long and one medium distance offshore race and one long inshore race. It is anticipated that those travelling from overseas could also participate in the Admiral’s Cup, Cowes Week and the Rolex Fastnet races and dependent upon size, the boats could participate in the Rolex Maxi Series.

Discussion also took place regarding the types of yachts that may be eligible to compete in the Admiral’s Cup. Although not yet determined, it is anticipated that the best of the modern grand prix boats of the day would compete for the Admiral’s Cup including TP52s, and/or mini maxis of 60-70ft range. Support was expressed for the retention of a three boat team.

The selection of a venue is not yet final but given previous events have been based out of Cowes, it is likely RORC will stick with tradition and involve the Solent area in the Admirals Cup courses. Alternative venues that were discussed included Weymouth or Portsmouth, and perhaps if the Admiral’s Cup were to be re-established, the winning country could be the host of the future event, similar to the America’s Cup.

Interested parties need to indicate a level of interest to RORC by July 2009 at which time a determination will be made to  re-establishment the event. – By Jennifer Crooks