By Mark Edward Nero
San Diego has been shortlisted as one of two final potential host cities, along with Bermuda, for the 35th America’s Cup, according to the sailing event’s organizers.
The Port of San Diego is the lead agency pushing the region’s bid for hosting the event.
“We’re enthusiastic about this opportunity, while mindful of both the potential benefits and costs of hosting the ‘Super Bowl of sailing’,” Port of San Diego Chairman Bob Nelson said. “We look forward to working with the City of San Diego and other regional partners as we close this deal with the America’s Cup Event Authority.”
Nelson also said an ad hoc committee has been formed to continue working on the region’s bid for the event. Port Vice Chairman Dan Malcolm is to chair the committee and its members include Nelson and port Commissioner Garry Bonelli.
San Diego is one of only seven cities to have hosted the America’s Cup. When the Cup was held there in 1988, 1992 and 1995, the race course was offshore on the ocean waters. But the port says if San Diego were selected as the venue this time, racing would take place in San Diego Bay, offering viewing opportunities for spectators along the city’s waterfront.
Over the coming months, the America’s Cup Event Authority is expected to work with both venues to finalize logistics requirements and commercial opportunities, plus establish the relationships needed with private and public entities to ensure a successful event.
Through that process, the next host city for the Cup is expected to be chosen and announced by ACEA before the end of 2014.
