America's Cup World Series Trials

Sunday, July 1, 2012
Our day started off early with breakfast at a diner with Sarah. We were expecting Natalie down but she was running late so we got take out for her and Eric. We left the house at 10AM to get to Ft Adams early. There was no delay in the traffic and we easily made it to the parking lot by 10:30 and started our hike into Ft Adams to get a spot to watch the races. We were loaded down with bags, chairs, and towels. It was going to be a hot day in the sun. We found a great spot on the rocks just in front of the finish line. We would be able to see all but the most southern leg of the races.  It did not take long before the rocks became very crowded but we knew we were in a good spot because we were just above the high tide line. Sarah, Natalie, and Jane took off to look around the America's Cup village shops and food booths. Of course they stopped at the Moet champagne booth at 11:30 and had a "refreshment" before returning to the rocks. Our friend Ian Mac Mahon arrived in Newport to anchor (after midnight!) so he joined us on the rocks with his sister Fiona, son Brendan, and girlfriend Betsy. We had quite a crew cheering for the 2 USA boats. It was hot but we had a constant ocean breeze to keep us comfortable.

Natalie and Sarah

Start of the exciting race

Overall winner...Team USA Oracle

After some very exciting races we decided to head out in the crowd to go back to Sarah's house for a cookout.  Our walk back to the car was a very long route so Sarah and Natalie walked on ahead to get the car and pick us up on the way out. Peter and Jane stopped near the park entrance to wait for the girls to drive our way. Unfortunately a storm decided to break loose right on top of us. It poured rain with thunder and lightening all around us. We were soaked by the time we got to the car! There were so many people leaving the races that it took us about 2 hours to get to the car and get ourselves back to Sarah's house. After hamburgers and potato salad for dinner Natalie drove us back to the boat. We were exhausted but it was a great day. We now have to pack for our quick trip back to Florida to collect our car.