Emirates Team New Zealand unveiled its second-generation AC75 yesterday, joining the other three America’s Cup teams with boats in the water. In just over 100 days, this boat will attempt to defend the Cup for the Kiwis, but there’s plenty of racing between now and then, with the America’s Cup World Series in December and the Prada Cup in January and February.
The ETNZ boat was blessed by Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei and christened Te Rehutai by Lady Margaret Tindall. Taiaha Hawke from Ngāti Whātua Ōrākei explained that the name means, “where the essence of the ocean invigorates and energizes our strength and determination” a fitting title for the Defender.
For Emirates Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton, boat launches are a particularly proud moment for the entire. “These occasions are special because they give you a quick opportunity to take a moment and be proud of what has been achieved. But not by a long stretch is this the end, we still have a huge amount to achieve in the next 4 months if we are to win the America’s Cup again.”
To learn more about Te Rehutai and the America’s Cup, visit emirates-team-new-zealand.americascup.com/en/home.html
November 2020