Last week, twenty talented sailors converged in Barcelona for the final phase of selection trials organised by Alinghi Red Bull Racing for their Youth & Women’s America’s Cup teams. While all participants had a busy and enriching experience, it was a particularly remarkable week for Anja von Allmen, one of the rising stars in the sailing world.

The candidates had the opportunity to witness the daily dock-out and boat preparations of the AC75 BoatZero, engage with America’s Cup sailors, and connect with other Alinghi Red Bull Racing members, immersing themselves in a sea of knowledge and a contagious team spirit. Beyond being a mere evaluation process, this week was about fostering personal growth and building a strong sense of camaraderie among these aspiring professional sailors.

Jonet, overseeing the Alinghi Red Bull Racing selection process, expressed, "This was a great way to conclude our qualification phases. It's about assembling a final team and providing a platform for knowledge sharing, personal growth, and team spirit building." The evaluation involved 69F one-design sailing on the Mediterranean and extensive time on simulators. Equally significant were the intangible factors taken into consideration during the selection process.

For Anja von Allmen and Arno de Planta, both Swiss sailors with aspirations to participate in the Youth & Women’s America’s Cup, the journey towards Barcelona 2024 began on a promising note. They received the coveted "boarding passes" as the first qualified sailors, securing their spots on the final roster for the Swiss team.

Jonet spoke highly of their abilities, stating, "We were just so impressed with Anja’s mental approach, her fast-learning curve on the foiling boat, and her consistent performance on the simulator. For Arno, we already knew his capabilities and potential as a fast sailor, but the trials confirmed what a valuable crew member and leader he could be. We’re thrilled to have them as key members of our teams."

Hailing from Spiez, Anja von Allmen began her journey sailing on Thunersee. She quickly ascended through the youth ranks, excelling in Optimists. A member of the GYC Racing Team since the age of 13, she demonstrated exceptional skills throughout the three phases of the selection trials, culminating in her remarkable performance in Barcelona.

"Alinghi has always been a prominent name in the sailing scene, both nationally and globally," von Allmen stated. "To stand here today, knowing that I represent that brand, is a profound honour. If you had told me ten years ago that little Anja would have this chance, I would have been incredulous. But it's a testament to the fact that anyone can achieve their dreams."

Arno de Planta, hailing from just outside Lausanne, began his sailing journey on Lake Geneva, with a focus on the 49er class, eventually rising to the elite international ranks. Earlier this year, he secured a silver medal with Sébastien Schneiter in the 49er class at the 2023 World Championships in The Hague, marking Switzerland’s first-ever world championship medal in that category.

Reflecting on his experience, de Planta shared, "We've engaged in a plethora of exciting activities this week. It wasn't just about evaluations; it was about conversing with coaches like Coraline Jonet and Pierre-Yves Jorand and connecting with fellow sailors. It's been an incredible journey, and I am immensely proud to represent Switzerland and Alinghi Red Bull Racing."

With Anja von Allmen and Arno de Planta securing their spots on the Swiss Youth & Women’s America’s Cup teams, the remaining team members will be announced on October 23, following the coaches and selection committee deliberations. The Gstaad Yacht Club congratulates these sailors and wishes them fair winds on their exciting journey ahead.

GYC