Concord Pacific Racing: Shaping Canada’s Puig Cup Legacy
Canadian Teams aim for historic victory with Concord Pacific Racing as one of the first all-women’s teams to compete in America’s Cup history.
The inaugural Puig Women’s America’s Cup and the UniCredit Youth America’s Cup in Barcelona this year was a sight to behold as racers from around the world faced off for a victory that would inscribe their names in the history books.
But this event also signified a ground-breaking partnership of Team Canada with several prominent sponsors — Concord Green Energy (Concord Pacific), RBC, TELUS, Dilawri — all of which have a firm emphasis on a commitment to advancing gender equity and cultivating young talent on the international stage.
Under the banner of Concord Pacific Racing, the Canadian teams were aiming not only for victory but also to make history as part of the first-ever women’s teams competing in the 173-year history of the America’s Cup. The UniCredit Youth America’s Cup kicked off on September 17, followed by the Puig Women’s America’s Cup on October 5.
Team Canada’s ambitions were clear: to do whatever it took to win both the inaugural Women’s America’s Cup and Youth America’s Cup regattas in Barcelona 2024, with the hope of inspiring increased participation, excellence and national pride across the country.
Veteran sailor Isabella Bertold led the charge, bringing her 15 years of competitive experience, including two World Cup medals, to her role as Team Captain. The teams consisted of two separate squads: the women’s team, featuring a crew of four led by Bertold, and the youth team, managed by Andrew Wood, also comprising four members. The women competed in the America’s Cup Final series in early October, while the youth team raced in September.
The Concord Pacific Racing Women’s team raced in state-of-the-art AC40 vessels, which utilize cutting-edge foil and sail technology that allows them to soar above the water at speeds reaching 100 kilometres per hour.
Reflecting on this momentous occasion, Bertold expressed her pride in representing Canada: “It’s incredible to be part of the first Women’s America’s Cup. With women’s sport finally taking centre stage, it’s fantastic to see Concord Pacific supporting our journey alongside RBC and TELUS. Together, we aim to break barriers, inspire the next generation and elevate Canadian sailing to new heights.”
The anticipation had continued to build as the full rosters for the Women’s and Youth teams were unveiled on May 15. Tam Matthews, chair of the Team Canada America’s Cup board, remarked on the significance of this event: “This is a historic moment for Canada, sailing and, especially, for women and youth. We are proud to be creating a legacy that will inspire future generations.”
President and CEO of Concord Pacific Terry Hui highlighted the synergy in supporting these teams, particularly in advancing opportunities for women in a traditionally male-dominated sport. “Participating in the America’s Cup will inspire the next generation of sailors in Canada and help open the sport to a broader audience,” Hui said.
Athletic events bring people together because of their shared passion for the sport. When organizations collaborate to sponsor such events and teams, it can drive positive change in our communities. The America’s Cup provides a great platform for empowering women and youth in sailing. As they embark on this journey, the unity of corporate sponsors and the commitment of the athletes signal a bright future for sailing in Canada, nurturing a new generation of champions.
