25th AMERICA's CUP 1983 Newport, Rhode Island, USA
Yacht / Country : Challenge 12 / Australia
Sailnumber : KA 10
Syndicate : Victorian Challenge
CEO : Richard Pratt
Yacht Club : Royal Victorian YC
Design : Ben Lexcen
Boat Builder : Steve E.Ward & Co.
Skipper : John Savage
Challenge 12, a traditional 12 Meter was designed by
Ben Lexcen at the same time as his revolutionary
Australia II with her winged keel. But later on, when
the yachts had to be trimmed to an optimal
performance, Lexcen did not care too much for his
second “baby”.
Originally owned by Alan Bond she was sold to the
Victorian Challenge after his syndicate selected
Australia II.
Later when the Victorian Challenge ran in to financial
troubles, Bond’s syndicate leased the yacht back for
2 months and loaned them 500.000 $.
Challenge 12 raced as sparring partner against
Australia II .
After the businessman Richard Pratt joined the team,
the financial situation improved considerably.
Challenge 12 became a fast boat and and a serious
competitor to Australia II.
But at the end of the races crew and boat lost their power. Finally they were eliminated in Round Robin C
of the LVC.
KA 10 Challenge 12 / Australia
Challenge 12, a traditional 12 Meter was designed by
Ben Lexcen at the same time as his revolutionary
AMERICA’S CUP HISTORY 1983 - 2013
