Australia II America’s Cup Triumph 1983 – Pre Stamped envelope Australia
The America’s Cup affectionately known as Auld Mug is a trophy awarded to the winner of America’s Cup races between two sailing yachts- one called the defender and other Challenger. the Cup was originally awarded in 1851 by Royal Yacht Squadron for a race round the Isle of Wight in United Kingdom which was won Schooner America.
The America’s Cup is the oldest International Sporting trophy. Alan Bond ,an Australian businessman made three unsuccessful challenges between 1974 and 1980. In 1974 and 1977 it was defended successfully by Courageous and in 1980 by Freedom.
Bond returned in 1983 for a fourth challenge. In 1983 there were seven challengers for the inaugural Louis Vutton Cup. Bond’s Yacht Australia II won the Louis Vutton Cup and the right to Challenge New York Yacht Club’s Yacht.
In a best of Seven format Bond’s Australia II beat NYYC’s Liberty 4-3 after poor starts to win the Cup.It was NYYC’s first loss in 132 years and 26 Challenges.This is remembered as Australia’s one of finest sporting moments.
Australia Post issued a 30 cent Pre Stamped envelope on 11 Oct 1983 to commemorate this triumph of Australia II. PSE No 067A.
Stamp Digest 