American Magic Showcases Vision and Capabilities at METSTRADE 2024

This week, Terry Hutchinson, Skipper and President of Sailing Operations for American Magic, took the stage at METSTRADE in Amsterdam, delivering an opening keynote speech to industry leaders, young professionals, and innovators in the sailing world. Hutchinson not only reflected on the team’s recent America’s Cup campaign but also unveiled a broader vision for American Magic’s role in advancing sailing and technology in the United States.

American Magic has always pursued the ambitious goal of winning the America’s Cup. However, as Hutchinson highlighted, the team’s mission goes far beyond competition: “Our vision is to re-engage and bring sailing back to the United States, building a legacy not only for our team but for our country.”

At the core of this vision is a commitment to cutting-edge technology. Hutchinson emphasized the team’s use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to transform yacht design and performance optimization, noting, “We’re shifting from time on the water to time in simulators that are not only accurate but cost-efficient.” American Magic’s AC75, Patriot, was showcased as an example of forward-thinking innovation, featuring aerodynamic advancements and groundbreaking use of recumbent cyclors.

Hutchinson also unveiled plans for a state-of-the-art, 60,000-square-foot High-Performance Sailing Center in Pensacola, Florida. This facility will allow American Magic to manufacture, design, and engineer in-house while providing mentorship opportunities for the next generation of sailors, engineers, and designers. “This will be a game-changer,” Hutchinson stated. “We’re building a legacy of talent and capability that will drive American sailing forward.”

The keynote concluded with a forward-looking perspective: “What’s most exciting is that we’re inventing the future. The America’s Cup drives innovations we’ve never seen before, and American Magic is proud to be at the forefront.”