The nine-year-old Spirit of Seattle (born Il Moro di Venezia V) is being put to work as a training platform for the Seattle Challenge.

SEATTLE, WA — In its bid to challenge for the America's Cup in 2003, the Seattle Challenge announced its decision to team up with the Corinthian Yacht Club of Seattle. According to CYC Commodore Cindy Gossett, "The Corinthian Yacht Club is extremely enthusiastic and delighted to partner with the Seattle Challenge in a campaign to bring the auld mug to Seattle and the Pacific Northwest. Their efforts have energized our own members, and we look forward to providing a solid foundation for their endeavor."
Russell Belden, CEO of the Seattle Challenge, added that he will be thrilled to race in New Zealand under the burgee of the CYC. "The CYC and Seattle Challenge share a vision of bringing honor, dignity, and spirit to the America's Cup," said Belden. "The tremendous group of Corinthian members will help give us the support we need to mount a strong challenge. We are committed to representing CYC with pride and determination."
The CYC was previously involved in the America's Cup during the 1974 campaign of Intrepid The club has hosted several national and international sailing events including the Star Worlds, the Mallory Cup, and the 1990 Goodwill Games. Belden, a CYC member, is en route to Monaco this week for an informal meeting of past and future challengers. Meanwhile, his colleagues at home have entered the syndicate's training horse—Spirit of Seattle—in the local Friday evening beer-can races to begin training crew. For additional information on the Seattle Challenge, log on to www.seattlechallenge.org.