Ed Baird

True to the succession planning of a world championships winning team, America’s Cup winner Baird was present as an observer with the team in Cagliari at the final event of the 2010 Audi Med Cup season, now official conformation arrives that Ed Baird will take over the helm next season as Terry Hutchinson moves on to pursue his choice of sailing with an America’s Cup programme.

Ed Reynolds (USA), President of Quantum Sail Design Group and Managing Director for Quantum Racing (USA), says Baird’s expertise as both sailor and coach make him a great fit for the TP52 World Champions.

“Ed is an 11-time world champion, has sailed with many of the guys on our team and is very much committed to our program, which is as much about product development as it is winning races. His accomplishments both on and off the water are impressive and his analytical approach to sailing is a real asset. We’re very excited to bring him on board and will value his expertise as we work to put a new boat, rig and sails on the water.”

Reynolds adds, “We wish Terry all the best as he prepares for the America’s Cup. He’s done an excellent job for us and we’re grateful for his sailing leadership and contributions to our test team program. This is not unexpected, as we’ve been aware of Terry’s aspirations to one day join an AC campaign. We’ve had a great run with Terry at the helm and fully expect his participation in the America’s Cup to be just as successful.”

Quantum Racing announced in September during the Region of Sardinia Trophy, in Cagliari, that they will campaign a new build boat for next season, being designed by Botin Carkeek and built in Spain by Chimo Lopez Longtitude Cero in Burriana, ready for launching and working up in the Mediterranean early next season.

Tags on NauticNews: Audi MedCup – America’s Cup – Ed Baird – TP52 World Championship

Photo: Region of Sardinia Trophy © Guido Trombetta_Studio Borlenghi/Audi MedCup

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