America’s Cup 2021: Blair Tuke prepares to defend sailing trophy as adrenaline brings clarity at high speeds2
- The America’s Cup starts on Wednesday as Team New Zealand take on the challenger Luna Rossa for the oldest trophy in sailing
- Blair Tuke focuses as small margins add up to large differences, especially on the start line and the first beat
The incredible high speeds of the America’s Cup boats brings focus to the Emirates Team New Zealand crew, and that is what separates them from the competition, said crew member Blair Tuke.
“We all use adrenaline as a form of clarity of thinking. We all need that adrenaline rush to make things become clear,” Tuke, 31, said.
“I think we all made our best decisions under pressure compared to our opponents over the years. That pressure situation and when you do get that rush of adrenaline, and that clarity probably sets these guys apart from the rest of the world.”
Team New Zealand is defending the America’s Cup against Luna Rossa from Italy. The trophy dates back to 1851, making it the oldest trophy in sailing and one of the oldest in any sport. The previous winner, known as the defender, takes on a challenger at a time agreed between the two sailing clubs.
The last America’s Cup was won by Team New Zealand, supported by Omega, in 2017 with Tuke on board then too.
