Americas Cup history: With The America's Cup Legend exhibition showcased at the Maritime Museum of New Zealand, you can discover the history and origins of the America's Cup legend.

Over 150 years ago in 1851, the Americans were invited to a friendly sailing competition around the Isle of Wright in Britain. After the victory of the American schooner before Queen Victoria's eyes, the legend was born.

Until 1983 when Australia brought the trophy to the Southern Hemisphere, the Cup's presence continued to confirm the technological and nautical supremacy of the United Sates of America. History would repeat itself, seeing the trophy brought again to the Southern Hemisphere in 1995, when New Zealand won the Louis Vuitton Cup and successively lifted the America's cup.

Such history behind the America's Cup makes it easy to understand why New Zealanders are so proud of their successive victories and sailing legend Sir Peter Blake, and why the museum sports such a display.

The America's Cup Legend Exhibition held at the New Zealand National Maritime Museum showcases the history of the sport that holds the title of the world's oldest sporting trophy. The competition was born in 1851, when the Americans won a spectacular victory against their British counterparts.

The exhibit clearly shows the international community why New Zealanders are so proud of their successive wins of the Cup in 1995 and 2000.

The exhibit displays the history of the legend, with films and stills on display to the sounds of retching hulls and commanding voices of the past and current races. The exhibit stresses the total commitment given by the sailors of the past and today.

The museum also commends the endeavours of Sir Peter Blake, the leader to both New Zealand's victories, and displays his sailing achievements.

Over the 150 years that the race has endured, the magic and prestige surrounding the Cup has not dissipated the slightest.

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... Americas Cup history ... The New Zealand National Maritime Museum

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The America's Cup Legend - a touring exhibition showcasing the incredible legend of the oldest sporting trophy in the world. The New Zealand National Maritime Museum hosts this incredible display, allowing viewers to discover the men and boats of sailings greatest legend. New Zealand won the America's Cup in 1995 and later in 2000, successfully defended the challenge. This exhibition allows New Zealanders and international visitors to truly appreciate and confirm why this country is so proud of its successive victories. With films on display showcasing the timeless events of yesteryear, you can relive the magic of the America's Cup. Set against the sound of straining hulls and shouted commands, the images will take away your breath, stressing the total commitment shown by such sailors of the past and today. Following the exhibit, you will also see how these magnificent boats reflect the history of the once current fashion. Over the 150 years of the races, one thing has remained constant: the pride and prestige of naval architects and yacht clubs. ... Americas Cup history ...