America's Cup Team blazer
Datec 1962
Object number00038505
NameBlazer
MediumFabric, metal
DimensionsShowcase: 80 x 44 mm, 0.74 kg
ClassificationsClothing and personal items
Credit LineANMM Collection Gift from Tygve Halvorsen
DescriptionThis America's Cup team blazer was worn by Trygve Halvorsen for the 1962 America's Cup. The double breasted navy blue blazer has four pockets and four decorative buttons featuring anchor motifs. The left breast pocket has been machine embroidered with the Australian Coat of Arms, and text reading 'America's Cup 1962'.HistoryThe Halvorsen brothers initially crewed in harbour races in the 1930s organised by the Sydney Amateur Sailing Club. When sailing resumed in 1945 after World War II, the Halvorsens were soon associated with success in ocean racing.
Lars Halvorsen built the 1946 Sydney-Hobart yacht race winner CHRISTINA. His sons Trygve and Magnus made sailing history with their three consecutive Sydney-Hobart wins in FREYA 1963-1965, and Magnus competed in 30 Sydney-Hobarts from 1946 to 1982, honing his skills as a navigator.
The Trygve and Magnus won four Trans Tasman races between 1948 and 1961 in their yachts PEER GYNT, SOLVEIG and NORLA, and went on to compete in Australia's first Admirals Cup and America's Cup Challenge series in FREYA and the 12 meter yacht GRETEL respectively. They also competed in the Southern Cross, Trans-Pacific and other blue water races. Carl Halvorsen distinguished himself in the 5.5 class winning the Australian championship in 1966, 1982 and 1991.
SignificanceThe blazer is a representative example of clothing worn by crew members of Australia's America's Cup Team challenge in 1962. It was made in Sydney, Australia.
