Yachting Australia remembers Alan Bond
by Jane Gordon on 5 Jun 2015
Alan Bond on board his racing yacht Australia II, in Perth, in 1986 Tony Feder / Getty Images
Yachting Australia offers it condolences to the family of Alan Bond, who passed away in Perth today.
Best known for his funding of the syndicate that wrested the America’s Cup from the hands of the Americans after 132 years in 1983, Alan had a long sailing career and raised the profile of the sport in Australia and around the world over many decades.
At a time when some of Australia’s most successful skippers took part, two Admirals’ Cup campaigns beckoned for Alan, his first in in 1973 with Apollo II and then again in 1981 with Apollo V.
Yachting Australia President Matt Allen recalls sailing on one of his Yachts as a 20 year old, saying, “I clearly remember he was one of the most positive people I’ve ever met with an incredible determination and strong will to succeed.
“He was a huge influence on the sport of sailing and while he is best remembered for the success of the America’s Cup campaign, he loved international racing, particularly the Admirals’ Cup, and many ocean-racing campaigns.
“The America’s Cup win was quite a moment in Australia’s history and one that will remain in the sailing record books. However Alan Bond made a broader impact on our sport, both at home and internationally, and we are grateful for his contribution”, added Matt Allen.
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