America's Cup: There Is No Second

August 22, 1851. The schooner America sailed past 15 British yachts to win a race around the Isle of Wight. Queen Victoria asked, "What is second?" The reply: "Your Majesty, there is no second." The oldest trophy in international sport was born - 45 years before the modern Olympics.

What to do there

3 things to do

1. 1 Visit the Royal Yacht Squadron History · Free

   Walk along Cowes seafront to the Royal Yacht Squadron (RYS) at the Castle. Founded 1815, this is where the 1851 race started. The Squadron is members-only, but the exterior and grounds are viewable. The race started here and finished here after circumnavigating the Isle of Wight.

   Backup: The nearby Cowes Maritime Museum has exhibits on the 1851 race.

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2. 2 Find the Start Line Adventure · Free

   The start of the 1851 race was off the Castle. Stand at the seafront and look across the Solent. America, a black-hulled 101-foot schooner, beat 15 British yachts over a 53-nautical-mile course. The New York Yacht Club held the trophy for 132 years - the longest winning streak in sport.

   Backup: During Cowes Week (August), races still start from here.

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3. 3 Champagne at the Prospect Wine · Price: moderate

   Walk to The Prospect pub on Birmingham Road (5 min). This waterfront pub has served sailors since the 1800s. Order champagne and toast to "There is no second." The America's Cup is now contested in high-tech foiling yachts, but it started right here with Victorian-era schooners.

   Backup: Duke of York pub (also waterfront) if The Prospect is full.

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