THE AMERICA CUP

Gisborne Times, Volume V, Issue 113, 22 May 1901, Page 2

THE AMERICA CUP

By Telegraph—Press Association—Copyright New York, May 20. Tho yacht Independence, which it was proposed should compote with the Constitution for tho honor of defending the America Cup against the challenge of the Shamrock 11., has been launched. It is doubtful, however, whether she will compete, as the proprietor, Lawson, refuses to transfer ownership to the Now York Yacht Club.

A Times correspondent writes :—The condition under which tho races will be conducted next August have been given to tho public. The Royal Ulster Yacht Club requested that a flying start be allowed, without any time allowance to either yachts. That is the rule in British waters, but the New York Yacht Club replied that it'saw no reason to mako tho change. The possession of the Cup is to be decided by the best three out of five races, starting from Sandy Hook lightship. The first race will be sailed on August 20th, unless Shamrock 11. should be detained by stress of weather on her voyage across the Atlantic. But’there will be no postponement after August 27th. The races will bo sailed on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays until completed. The change of time from October to August has been made with a view of securing better weather conditions. It is believed that Shamrock 11. will be greatly superior to Shamrock I. If she should carry the Cup back across the Atlantic it will be a worthy success for so excellent a sportsman as Sir Thomas Lipton. American yachtsmen are confident that, of the two American defenders, Heneshoffs at least will be a wonderful improvement over Columbia, which so completely outclassed Shamrock 1, last year.