At ASF, as we are inspired by Andrew, we are similarly inspired by the America’s Cup community that he was a part of and how it embodies Andrew’s passion for the Ocean and the Sport. We try and emulate this passion everyday as we aim to increase participation for all. 

Whilst in Barcelona, our guests had the opportunity to head out on the water and see the incredible boats in action with INEOS during a race day, and also had the opportunity to view a training race between Athena Pathway and Artemis youth and women’s team, hosted by Artemis Racing.  

We hosted two expert panels, which saw members from all the teams participating in the cup put the competition to side briefly, to answer questions and discuss key points surrounding our sport. This included subjects such as the exciting developments in sailing, the evolving technologies and pushing of boundaries, bringing in new audiences, and how the America’s Cup can inspire young people back home, and get more investment and involvement in the grass roots side of our sport. 

It was an amazing opportunity to bring various communities from across the sailing landscape together. We’d like to say a big thank you to everyone who attended our Foundation event, and all the amazing sailors on the panels hosted by INEOS Britannia in the AC37 lounge, which included ASF founding trustee and principle of INEOS, Ben Ainslie.  

Speaking on the star-studded women’s panel, Hannah Mills discussed the importance of creating equal playing fields in sailing:

“Now with the Women’s America’s Cup, we suddenly have two amazing leagues that are pushing women who are at the top of Olympic sport. Coming into this high performance foiling and sailing, there is a real opportunity for women sailors to improve and embark on other roles, such as within the Cup Teams and the F50s. And for me, it’s so important that we get women and men competing in sports on an equal playing field, because that will trickle down for the next generation of young people.”

ASF Head of Communications & Development, Sally Turner said:

“The energy, passion and camaraderie of the America’s Cup community was palpable, and it made for a great event in support of the Andrew Simpson Foundation.”

ASF’s Fundraising Manager, Ruth Brady said:

“What an incredible experience! Thank you to everyone who attended the Andrew Simpson Foundation event at the America’s Cup last week. It was fantastic to get out on the water and see some amazing racing with our wonderful supporters, followed by an evening full of sporting legends!”