[Sunroof]

I went to Newport, Rhode Island last summer when the America's Cup boats were racing at ports around the world to showcase the catamarans. Newport was the American venue. They had a wing and hull on land to touch, inspect and get very close to. The hulls are all carbon and as light as a feather. The sail is one hell of massive airfoil also made of carbon fiber and mylar coated. The technology is incredible.

I personnally prefer the old days when the 12 meters were metal monohulls and the crew did not wear ninja turtle type armor with floatation suits. Then Ted Turner captaining his "Courageous" put on one hell of a race. Now, the racing circuit and strategy is different, dangers increased with the potential to be literally catapalted off the high side. A whole new ballgame in the America's Cup. I even have to wonder how many Americans are sailing on Oracle, the American entry.

Despite it all for the landbased observer it can be boring to watch thats why many will fork out hundreds to sit on a rocking boat near the racing circuit to try and get a better look.

Best to watch on the television. But the real fun is in the paddock and Pavillion areas where you can meet the crews, get close to the boats at dock, sit in front of a huge screen with your favorite brew and watch the race. If anyone is heading to Frisco to catch the races the Pavillion area is where its at.

_/)