The 106 year-old Canada’s Cup is a prestigious international match-racing event, held periodically between the U.S. and Canada. Often referred to as the Great Lakes America’s Cup, the Canada’s Cup is now being sailed in identical FARR 40’s.

Most recently held in 2001, the Royal Canadian Yacht Club was successful in taking the Canada’s Cup north to Canadian waters. Having been narrowly defeated while representing the American defender, Bayview Yacht Club, Team Heartbreaker is more determined than ever to see the cup brought back to American waters.

Starting in July 2003, the challenger trials will be open to any American yacht club on the Great Lakes. Seeing Lake Michigan, and more specifically MBYC, as the ideal venue for such an exciting event, Robert has asked MBYC to support his challenge. After weighing the options, the Board of Directors has agreed to put the full support of our club behind this local team. While not providing any monetary support, MBYC will provide the facilities necessary for Team Heartbreaker/MBYC to prepare for this event.

Starting early summer 2003, all members will be able to get involved with this historic event. Team Heartbreaker/MBYC will be have a two boat training program with America’s Cup sailors taking part. Opportunities for involvement will include, but are not limited to: Fundraising; Sailing on the training boat with America’s Cup sailors; Working on and off the water in running the training events; providing support to Team Heartbreaker/MBYC during the Challenger Trials and potentially the Canada’s Cup; Watching world class racing.

If Team Heartbreaker/MBYC is successful in their challenge, Macatawa Bay Yacht Club will be the proud host of this incredible event in 2005. All members are encouraged to get involved so that we can have the honor of hosting the Canada’s Cup.