1851 Cup schedule announced

TeamOrigin to line up with BMW Oracle Racing for three days over Cowes Week

Dates have been announced for the 1851 Cup, which will see Sir Keith Mills' TeamOrigin line up with America's Cup defenders BMW Oracle Racing, to take place during Cowes Week next month. 

Competition will take place in the Solent and around the Isle of Wight to celebrate the original 1851 race on this course that ultimately gave rise to the present. America’s Cup. Racing will be held as close to West Cowes as possible to give spectators a close-up view, with a special race around the Isle of Wight also planned.

The racing schedule is:
- Match racing: up to three short match races per day on Tuesday 3rd, Wednesday 4th and Friday 6th August, starting from 1430 onwards

· Round the Island race : Thursday 5th August both boats will go around the Island in a clockwise direction, replicating the direction of the yachts back in 1851

"This will be an incredible event which I am sure will capture the imagination of sports fans across the UK," commented Ben Ainslie, TeamOrigin Skipper and Helmsman. "We relish the idea of taking on the Defenders in our home waters. We have a busy season in 2010 and The 1851 Cup is one that we are all particularly looking forward to.”

The teams will be based at the 1851 Marquee on Cowes Parade, adjacent to the Royal Yacht Squadron. There will be information and activities for public and guests daily.

The America’s Cup itself will be on public display. Members of each team will be on hand to sign posters, answer questions and talk about their passion for their sport and for winning the America’s Cup.

James Spithill, Skipper of BMW Oracle Racing added: “Ben’s a mate and fantastic sailor. Having said that, we’re really looking forward to taking the fight to him and his guys. For our team, this is a key stepping stone from having been victorious challengers in February when we beat Alinghi, to becoming a unit that has to defend the 34th America’s Cup.”