Two time Extreme Sailing Series champion Paul Campbell-James has joined Ben Ainslie Racing. Paul helmed one of Luna Rossa’s AC35’s during the America’s Cup World Series leading up to the 2013 Cup. Most recently he has helmed Team Russia’s Extreme 40 in the Extreme Sailing Series. His move to BAR ends speculation about a possible Team Russia entry in the 35th America’s Cup.
The BAR design team recruited composites specialist New Zealander Mark Bishop and Yves Mignard (FRA), formerly with the Groupama Sailing Team. The shore team was strengthened with the addition of Composites Manager Michel Marie (FRA), who has been on three winning America’s Cup teams with Alinghi and BMW Oracle Racing. Ben Williams (GBR) joined the team as Strength and Conditioning Coach.
BAR began work on their new headquarters on Camber Quay in Portsmouth in July. They expect it to be complete by May 2015.