Alinghi, America's Cup & Louis Vuitton Cup

Lorenzo Mazza (ITA) ~ Trimmer

Photo credit: Ivo Rovira / Alinghi

Photo credit: Ivo Rovira / Alinghi

Photo credit: Ivo Rovira / Alinghi

What does it mean to you to be sailing for Alinghi and defending the America’s Cup?

“It’s a great opportunity to sail at this level with a team of this level.”

Alinghi clearly still has what it takes to win. In your opinion, what elements of the team set it apart from the rest?

“The way that everyone is supportive and cooperates with each other makes all the difference.”

Can you describe the physical and mental demands that racing at this level has on you?

“My role is more mentally than physically demanding. I have to concentrate and really focus during races.”

What do you think will be going through your head when you are lying in bed the night before the Match?

“I hope that I will be nice and relaxed and I hope there will not be too much noise at night so I can sleep- which is not easy here in Valencia!”

Describe your role on the boat and how it could make or break the outcome of a race and essentially affect whether or not Alinghi retains the Cup.

“As the trimmer of either the genoa or the spinnaker, I have to be reliable in my timing and adjustment of the sails – my judgement affects the speed of the boat.”