Your feedback

More correspondence from you on the subject of our impending subscription, Wight Lightning and Oracle

Your feedback from Andy Rice's excellent interview with Paul Cayard
From Andrew Troup
OK, Ellison may be the 'leader' of the second biggest software house, but in systematically firing a glittering cross-section of the most talented AC helmsmen, it is hard to see how Ellison can be improving the disposition of the survivors. It's a charade, which evokes reality TV, and makes one reach for the dictionary to check how apposite 'venal' might be.

From K Wilson
I think that Paul's insight into professional, competitive, sailing is interesting. However I think Larry Ellison, for whatever reason, is manipulating his team into a position where their afterguard may be too diverse. Placing himself, an admitted amateur, at the helm shows a certain level of Cup immaturity. By sidelining both Chris Dickson and Paul Cayard, two of the most talented helmsman/tacticians on the planet, he has shown the rest of the Oracle team that its either his way or the high way; which no doubt puts a definitive slant on team decision making.

I do however agree with Paul that the Brits have an incredibly motivated young team that could deliver a few upsets showing the AC community a glimpse of the future. My team to watch would be illbruck. This team is exactly that - a TEAM - they work together with one goal in mind: winning. If there's any doubt about the potential for their domination just check out the Volvo Ocean Race. Their advanced sail testing has shown obvious results and Kostecki's leadership has been impeccable. Granted their not in NZ testing cup boats and Michael Illbruck is running short on cash already in continuing with their campaign, but what the hell - I like their attitude.