America’s Cup: Sir Ben Ainslie aims for lasting legacy

Four-time Olympic gold medalist Sir Ben Ainslie says he hopes basing his America’s Cup team in Portsmouth will leave a legacy on the south coast.

He is spearheading Britain’s bid to win the 35th America’s Cup in 2017.

Ainslie, 37, won the race with Oracle Team USA last year and will captain a GB team for the next event.

“Through this team we really have an opportunity to raise the profile of sailing and the marine industry in the south coast,” Ainslie told BBC South.

He has set up the Ben Ainslie Trust, helping to create more than 1,000 jobs in Portsmouth. The Duchess of Cambridge is a patron, while Sir Keith Mills, who was deputy chair of the London 2012 Olympic organising committee, has been installed as chairman.

“We really wanted to be here in Portsmouth, because not only is it a fantastic sailing venue to race and train, but we also wanted to integrate in the local community and we are extremely grateful for their support in hosting us,” Ainslie added.