China
Representing the Qingdao International Yacht Club, the China Team’s presence in the 32nd America’s Cup
marks China’s historic first appearance in the competition. Founded in 2005 by a group of Chinese
businessmen and sailing enthusiasts, the team is a venture in association with the French Le DEFI
squad which mounted two previous America’s Cup campaigns. China Team finished last among the challengers
in Rounds Robin One and Two but showed great progress and spirit in its very young campaign.
China Team plans to return for the 33rd America’s Cup.
President – Wang Chao Yong
Skipper – Pierre Mas
Afterguard – Pierre Mas, Francois Carpente, Sebastien Destremau
Trimmers – Charles Lim Yi Wong, Damien Iehl, Guillaume Florent, John Fries, Mikael Mergui,
Ming Feng Tang, Piotr Przbyslki, Sylvain Barielle, Wearn Haw Tan, Wenpei Zhang, Zhao Fei
Grinders – Andreas Landgren, Aziz Essadek, Brice Jaffuel, Jue Wang, Olivier Maurelli, Thierry Barot
Mastman/Pitman – Arman Coursodon, Olivier Vigoureux, Xavier Husson, Olivier Herledant
Foredeck/bowman – Florent Chastel, Francois Verdier, Gilles Andre
Hull – 24 meters long by 4 meters wide, carbon fiber/nomexhoneycomb construction
Keel – Lead/carbon fiber bulb, 19 tons
Mast Height – 33 meters
Sails – Total area (720 sq. meters) Foresail (Genoa)/Mainsail – carbon fiber w/aramid fiber
backstays, Spinnaker/Gennaker – woven polyester or nylon
Total Weight – 24 tons
Crew – 17 plus one, 18th man (optional)