How did Dalton’s approach revitalize Team New Zealand ? 

Dalton's tenure as CEO since the early 2000s has been transformative. His extensive experience, including seven round-the-world races, has deeply influenced Team New Zealand's strategic approach. Since taking the helm following the 2003 loss, Dalton has revitalized the team's ethos, focusing on cutting-edge design and cohesive teamwork. This leadership has not only led to remarkable victories but has also instilled a belief in overcoming the odds, no matter the challenger's size. Team New Zealand gears up for the defense in Barcelona. Dalton's enduring legacy, coupled with Peter Burling's exceptional skill as a skipper showcased in the championship’s 36th edition, sustains the team's aspirations, driving them toward potentially another historic victory.  

 

How did upstart New Zealand court controversy through innovation?

In 1987 New Zealand challenged convention with its first entry, building a fiberglass rather than, traditional, aluminum-hulled vessels dubbed the “Plastic Fantastic.” This resulted in an accusation of “cheating.” In the next race, New Zealand challenged America. New Zealand’s massive carbon-fiber monohull with wings, reshaped the design - from which America’s Cup Class yachts were born. Later, New Zealand was legally challenged when it built a vessel sporting an unusual double strut keel and no rudder, dubbed a “skiff on steroids.” In 2013, during the 34th America’s Cup in San Francisco, Team New Zealand, always pushing the boundaries of innovation, was the first team to get their yacht up and out of the water on foils – virtually flying rather than sailing. But after leading 8-1, they lost 9-8 against Oracle Team. Four years later, in Bermuda, they introduced the "cycling" technology in their boat - generating 30% more energy - to smash the U.S defender 7-1. They managed to defend their title in 2021 for a 4th win at home, 7-3. Can they do it again in Barcelona?