Yachting: The Line Forms

Who’s next?

That was the only question at Newport, R.I., last week as Bus Mosbacher sailed Intrepid to a fourth straight triumph over Australia’s Dame Pattie and made sure that the America’s Cup will remain at the New York Yacht Club for at least three more years. The ease of Intrepid’?, victory did not discourage other challengers. No sooner were the races over than two challenges for 1970 were received—from Britain’s Royal Dorset Yacht Club and France’s Yacht Club d’Hyeres.

There was talk of runoff races, on the order of tennis’ Davis Cup eliminations, to determine which country will compete against the U.S. Whatever crew it is will have its work cut put. Intrepid’?, architect, Olin Stephens, is brimming with ideas for an even faster 12-meter. Its sails, naturally, will be made by Ted Hood. And who will sail the boat? Said Mosbacher: “Given the same team, I would consider another Cup defense.”