Heart of America 12 US 51
1987 Americas Cup Challenger
Overview
Heart of America is a 12 Metre class racing yacht that competed in the 1987 Louis Vuitton Cup, the selection series to determine the challenger for the Americas Cup. Representing the Chicago Yacht Club, she was helmed by the legendary Harry C Buddy Melges. The yacht finished 8th out of 13 entries.
Design and Innovation
The yacht was designed by a team from the Chicago based firm Graham and Schlageter, known primarily for their work on small ocean racers. The design team included James Gretzky, Scott Graham, Duncan McLane, and Eric Schlageter. Heart of America featured a high bow, low freeboard, and a broad stern characteristics reminiscent of French Kiss. Her keel was inspired by the winged keel of Australia II.
Americas Cup Campaign
Built according to the International Third Rule, Heart of America was launched in 1986 for the 26th Americas Cup campaign. Trial horses during the campaign included Clipper and Defender. The yacht was supported in part by the Chrysler Corporation and had distinctive winglets at the ends of her keel.
Controversy and Legal Challenge
The campaign faced legal scrutiny when the Royal Perth Yacht Club questioned whether the Chicago Yacht Club, located on Lake Michigan, met the arm of the sea requirement under the Deed of Gift. The New York Supreme Court ruled in favor of the Chicago Yacht Club, affirming that Lake Michigan qualified, as the club had also hosted sea regattas on the coast.
Post Campaign Ownership and Legacy
1986–1987: Heart of America Challenge – Homeport: Newport, Rhode Island
Post-1987: Owned by US 12 Meter San Diego, Inc., La Jolla, California
1993–2006: Sailed out of Turkey under unknown ownership
Since 2006: Owned by Kahraman Sadicoglu – Homeport: Gocek Bay, Turkey
Heart of America remains a symbol of innovation and perseverance, bringing the Americas Cup spirit to the Great Lakes and beyond.