Reflections on San Diego 1994/95 – Part Two

Last week I reflected on my time with TNZ as a security specialist in San Diego. In this item I will comment on some of the security aspects. In any challenge for the America’s Cup security is an important component. It is well documented that some syndicates have engaged in espionage tactics to gain an advantage by finding out rival’s technology innovations. We all remember images of boats being lifted from the water with skirts to prevent prying eyes seeing the underwater appendages. During 1991 challenge TNZ shore crew caught red handed an ex-navy seal diver hired by a rival syndicate photographing the keel. He was hauled from the water, relieved of his camera and some summary justice ensued. What resulted was protracted and expensive civil litigation in the California Courts.

Sir Peter Blake hired a security consultant to complete a risk analysis and recruit two off duty New Zealand Police Officers. We were part of the first tranche of TNZ members to arrive to set up base for the arrival of NZL32 and 38. TNZ leased a boat builder’s yard and workshop in Point Loma. We spent our first week undertaking a reconnaissance, purchasing and installing equipment and materials to ensure the compound was fit for purpose and secure. Sir Peter provided us security parameters and bottom lines and he approved our plans prior to installation. We maintained a presence at the base six nights each week and members of the sailing team were rostered to cover our night off. We worked a week about roster of six hour late shifts and 7 hour night shifts.

Before the challenger series started and between round robins the team were busy with two boat testing trials. I was often asked to make up the numbers on deck; usually in a grinding position. Having no previous sailing experience this was a real learning curve for me. The power and speed of NZL 32 and 38 in the light San Diego breezes was hugely impressive. What also impressed me was the teamwork and skill of the sailors and the on board leadership of Russell Coutts, Ed Baird, Brad Butterworth and Murray Jones.

We had no serious security breaches to deal with. Only the occasional minor one like nosy Kiwi fans peering over the perimeter fence.

Off duty we enjoyed the region and the mild winter climate. On the rare occasion the sailing team had a day off one of their favourite activities was golf. I sometimes made up a four with Russell, Brad and Ed; all mad keen golfers and very competitive! We were spoilt for choice with golf courses in the area. The nearby flood lit 9 hole course came in handy for the occasional hit after a hard day on the water.

While on duty we interacted closely with most of the team. Without exception I was struck by the commitment, determination and single-minded focus to win. The team worked incredibly long hours with few days off. For example, the sailing team started every day with aerobic fitness circuit training before we finished our nightshifts. They never left the compound until all the sailing equipment was checked and cleaned; minimum 12 hour work days. Another thing they were good at was celebrating success. We consumed the sponsor’s product during end of round robin parties, then everyone was back to hard work the next day.

This campaign was an experience I will always treasure. I learnt much from our fellow team members about leadership, teamwork, dedication and commitment, and having a winning focus. These are the qualities seen in many other NZ teams including Emirate’s TNZ in Bermuda and these are the qualities that set New Zealand teams apart on the world sporting stage.

Dave Pizzini, Director: VI