**Sail of the Century: Ben Ainslie Leads Britain's Pursuit of the Coveted Trophy** - Captain set to face New Zealand in the America's Cup - "The fact that Britain has never won is what drives us" In the inaugural race for the Royal Yacht Squadron’s £100 Cup back in 1851, 15 boats took to the water—14 from Britain and one from the United States. The lone contender was a 101-foot schooner named America, crafted in New York and brought over to showcase the skills of American shipbuilders. As one observer noted, America arrived "like a sparrow hawk among a flock of wood pigeons." Legend has it that when America crossed the finish line during the 53-mile (98 km) race around the Isle of Wight, Queen Victoria, who was watching from the Royal Yacht, turned to a signalman and inquired about the boat in second place. The signalman reportedly replied, "Your Majesty, there is no second." America triumphed in that first race by a staggering 24 minutes, and nearly 200 years later, Britain has yet to claim the prestigious trophy, which was renamed in honor of the victorious yacht. The last time a British team had a shot at the America's Cup was in 1964, when Sovereign, helmed by Peter Scott—the son of famed Antarctic explorer Robert Scott—was defeated 4-0 by the American yacht Constellation. As the current captain, Ben Ainslie is determined to change this narrative as he leads the British team in their quest for the elusive trophy. The drive to win is fueled by the historical absence of a British victory, making this pursuit all the more significant for Ainslie and his crew.