Friday, 22 June 2007

America's Cup - do we have the Edge?


A principal interpretation of the edge metaphor is that of seeking competitive advantage - in business, in technology, in creativity, in sport. How to win, how to sustain winning. Here's a sprinkling of edge metaphors in media commentaries on the America's Cup, the finals of which commence Sunday morning NZ time in Valencia, Spain, between the holders, Alinghi of Switzerland, and Emirates Team New Zealand. Godspeed boys from the edge.

"The America’s Cup represents the leading edge of yachting design.”

“It is the nature of the beast that once that edge is gained - there is no second.”

“These boats and crews have been honed to a razor edge in these trials.”

“What gives a syndicate an edge is how they apply the technology.”

“The America’s Cup Finals - who has the edge?”

"If one team has a slight speed edge it is likely to be game over."

“Both teams tacked to a port course looking for an edge as the wind shifted.”

“We expect the changes will help us gain a competitive edge.”

“Throughout the race, it was clear the black boat had a speed edge.”

“In front during the first leg and made the turn with a 32-second edge.”

“They had an edge on speed and had a perfect week where everything went their way.”

“New Zealand grab America's Cup edge.”

“Cutting edge Kiwi products and technologies have a strong presence in Valencia.”

“Team NZ hold an edge in head-to-head clashes in buildup regattas.”

“The feeling is that if Alinghi believe they have a speed edge, Baird will steer.”

“In America's Cup sailing as well as in financial services, to be on the cutting edge it takes the right combination of strategy and teamwork.”

Photo by Carlo Borlenghi ACM, Sail Magazine.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

Sadly not.

Anonymous said...

An upset win gives us a edge.
An even split gives us an edge.
Tonights race will have us on edge.
By nature we live on the edge.
JUST TO COMPETE WE HAVE THE EDGE!
Peace Love & Harmony from the edge.
Nigel Westbrook. peloha@gmail.com

Anonymous said...

2-1 for us kiwis ; only 3 more wins and the old mug comes home again .

Anonymous said...

Edgey stuff, these races. Wind shifts have the sailors on edge too.

I'm loving the racing, the fact that whoever wins the America's Cup this time will have proved they can sail better, faster, stronger, more cannily, better as a team -- that it's about the skill and tenacity and teamwork and brilliance of the sailing this time, not so much about better technology.