12 Mar 2021

America's Cup: Racing not pushing more to learn to sail yet

From Morning Report, 8:25 am on 12 March 2021

The sleek racing boats contesting the America's Cup in Auckland have attracted television eyeballs and plenty of admiration, but it hasn't translated into a spike in those wanting to learn to sail.

Iconic sailing identity Penny Whiting says high-speed foiling craft are a spectacular way to raise the interest levels of non-yachties.

She's been hosting lessons for would-be sailors for more than 50 years and fully expected the regatta to boost numbers at her classes.

But it hasn't.

Whiting spoke to Corin Dann.