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A week to remember – for the team and for Anja von Allmen in particular
They watched the daily dock-out and boat preparations of the AC75 BoatZero, met with America’s Cup sailors and other Alinghi Red Bull Racing members to absorb everything and became part of the positive team spirit that permeates the team base. While the main objective of the week was for the selection committee members to evaluate each of the sailors, along the way, it was about the experiences that will help them grow as professional sailors.
“For us, this was a great way to finish our qualification phases with a week at the team base together with 20 incredible sailing talents,” said Jonet, who oversaw the selection process for Alinghi Red Bull Racing that began in early summer. “It’s about more than just choosing a final team but about providing a platform for knowledge sharing, personal growth and building team spirit.” Performance objectives were evaluated through 69F one-design sailing on the Mediterranean and extensive time on the simulators. Other intangible factors were also key in the selection process.
For two Swiss sailors looking to be part of the Youth & Women’s America’s Cup, the road to Barcelona 2024 already began on last Friday. Rising talents Anja von Allmen (20) and Arno de Planta (24) received the two “boarding passes” today as the first qualified sailors. The passes earn each of them a spot on the final roster for the Swiss team in the Youth & Women’s America’s Cup.
"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,” said Jonet. “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 can be. We’re so pleased to have them as two of our key members of those teams.”
Hailing from Spiez, von Allmen grew up sailing on Thunersee and broke through the youth ranks racing Optimists. As well part of the GYC Racing Team since 13 years of age, she shined throughout the three phases of the selection trials which took place in Switzerland before the final qualifying week in Barcelona.
“Alinghi has always been a big name in the sailing scene and worldwide,” said von Allmen. “Standing here knowing that I am representing that brand, I am super grateful to have that opportunity. If you had told me 10 years ago, that little Anja would have this chance, I would have said “What, no way?”. But it’s possible, anyone can do it!”
De Planta is from just outside Lausanne and sailed as a youth on Lake Geneva with a focus on the 49er class as he moved into the elite international ranks. Earlier this year, he won silver with Sébastien Schneiter in 49er at the 2023 World Championships in The Hague. It was Switzerland’s first-ever world championship medal in that class.
“We’ve done plenty of really interesting activities this week. And it was not just evaluations but talking with coaches like Coraline Jonet and Pierre-Yves Jorand, and interacting with others. It’s been an amazing experience,” said de Planta. “I’m super proud to represent Switzerland and Alinghi Red Bull Racing.”
With Von Allmen and de Planta as confirmed members of the Swiss Youth & Women’s America’s Cup teams, the remaining spots will be announced on October 23 after the coaches and selection committee members decide. The Gstaad Yacht Club congratulates the sailors with fair winds.
Additional Media information:
Contact: Cindy, Gstaad Yacht Club
E-mail: cindy@gstaadyachtclub.com
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