The America's cup in Valencia

The seaside city of Valencia is one of Europe's fastest growing cities. This is highlighted by the fact that it is the present home of the America's Cup races. The races are being hosted in Europe for the first time since 1851, due to the Swiss victory in the previous event. The decision, made in 2003 in Geneva, to host the events in Valencia is a reflection of the high tourist profile, which the city holds. The events are being organised in conjunction with the Yacht Club of Geneva due to the lack of a seaboard in Switzerland. Hence, the people of Valencia take great pride and honour in being chosen as the host city.

Located at the mouth of the River Turia, Valencia's port is a hive of activity. Preparation is already underway for the decisive 32nd America's Cup race in 2007. The teams involved in the race are based in their own purpose built Formula 1 style paddocks in the inner harbour area. Valencia's reliable climate and maritime tradition make it ideal for a sailing event of this stature. From a sailing point of view, Valencia's harbour meets all the requirements needed to make it one of the best sailing courses in Europe. It boasts regular sea breezes most of the year and the predictability of this breeze, known as the 'Garbi' by the locals, greatly helped Valencia's cause when it was bidding for the race.

Officially known as the oldest trophy in sport the America's Cup actually outdates the modern Olympic games. The trophy itself was originally known as the 100 Guineas Cup. The race was held for the first time around the Isle of Wight and was known as the Royal Victoria Yacht Club regatta. The very first winner of the original race was a boat crewed by the New York Yacht Club called "America" and as an ode the trophy has been known as the America's Cup. Later, as a declaration of friendly competitive spirit, the trophy was given to the New York Yacht Club as a gesture of goodwill by way of a "Deed of Gift". In this way, the race became a perpetual challenge cup. Herein lies the noble tradition of the America's Cup. Challengers are invited to compete for the cup.

Valencia is the seat of the 32nd edition of the race. On the previous 31 occasions, American teams have taken the glory 28 times, New Zealand twice and Australia once. The most recent winner was the Swiss based team Alinghi and as a result they are considered the defenders.

In the modern-day event most stages are played out in two acts: the Louis Vuitton and the America's Cup match. The winners of the Louis Vuitton cup race gain the right to face the defender in the final competition and effectively raise the America's Cup.