Sailing Vs. Baseball
Competitive sailing in the US is steeped in heritage. Domestic and international events are now commonplace in the US sailing landscape, while governing bodies oversee the administration of the sport at all levels. Sailing doesn’t enjoy the same levels of participation as baseball or football, but it makes up for its lower participation levels with deep comradery and strong bonds formed through teamwork and a common interest.
Sailing Through History
Sailing as a sport, or yachting, is believed to have originated in the Netherlands in the 17th century. It wasn't long before yachting spread to England and to the Americas. Ireland was home to the world’s first yacht club, founded in Cork in 1720. The world’s oldest and continually operated club is the New York Yacht Club (NYYC), which was founded in 1844.
In 1851 the NYYC raced against a competing British schooner in the Isle of Wight. Following the NYYC’s victory, the race was named the America’s Cup. This competition also led to the creation of the most prestigious trophy in sailing, and what is today the world’s oldest sports trophy. America held on to this trophy, undefeated until 1983. This is the longest winning streak in the history of sport. Since then the trophy has changed hands numerous times between Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland and the USA.
In 1851 the NYYC raced against a competing British schooner in the Isle of Wight. Following the NYYC’s victory, the race was named the America’s Cup. This competition also led to the creation of the most prestigious trophy in sailing, and what is today the world’s oldest sports trophy. America held on to this trophy, undefeated until 1983. This is the longest winning streak in the history of sport. Since then the trophy has changed hands numerous times between Australia, New Zealand, Switzerland and the USA.
A Horizon of Challenge and Diversity
Sailing is an incredibly diverse sport by nature. A wide range of vessels are used for a variety of formats and events around the world. Sailing can take place in short burst events or long-haul open ocean events, from lake, to harbor and ocean racing. No matter in what format, it always provides competitors with the sternest of mental and physical challenges as it requires a unique mixture of skills. One must have full control over the sailing vessel, profound understanding of weather and water conditions and good physical fitness.
Sailing may not be as popular or easy to access as other sports, but it has great American heritage, it promotes the important value of comradery, and it carries many opportunities for amateurs and professionals alike.
Sailing may not be as popular or easy to access as other sports, but it has great American heritage, it promotes the important value of comradery, and it carries many opportunities for amateurs and professionals alike.
