In which sport do people compete for the America's Cup?

Often called the oldest international trophy in sports, this prestigious prize is the pinnacle of achievement in the world of competitive sailing. The competition is a series of match races between two high-performance sailing yachts: one representing the defending yacht club that currently holds the cup, and the other representing a challenging club. The event tests not only the skill of the crew but also the technological superiority and design of their vessel.

Contrary to what its name might suggest, the trophy is not named for the United States. It was first awarded in 1851 after a schooner named *America*, from the New York Yacht Club, won a race around the Isle of Wight in England. The cup was subsequently named in the vessel's honor and was donated to the New York Yacht Club under a Deed of Gift, to be held as a perpetual challenge trophy.

For 132 years, the cup was famously defended by the New York Yacht Club, representing the longest winning streak in the history of any sport. This incredible run finally ended in 1983 when *Australia II* defeated the American defender. Today, the competition features futuristic, hydrofoiling boats that "fly" above the water at incredible speeds, making it one of the most technologically advanced events in the sporting world.