America’s cup coming home

The Charlotte (N.C.) Observer: In a time of aching unemployment, deep political divisions and a dizzying array of intractable challenges, we’re happy to note one delightful diversion: America’s Cup, the oldest international sporting trophy, is coming back to America after a 15-year absence.

Named for the pilot schooner America, which was awarded the trophy after an 1851 British regatta, the ornate silver cup stayed in American hands until 1983 when Australia II won it for the Royal Perth Yacht Club. Since then, the cup has stopped at ports around the world, including a stay back on American soil from 1987 to 1995. The periodic competition for the cup is the international maritime version of the Super Bowl, only wetter and saltier.

Now businessman Larry Ellison, CEO of the software firm Oracle, has won the cup back.