Ras Al Khaimah, Oct 17: Alinghi 5, the giant catamaran of the Swiss defenders of the America’s Cup, has started sailing in the waters of Ras Al Khaimah for the first time today even as the organizers of the sport’s oldest trophy announced that the emirate is ready with the infrastructure to host the 33rd edition of the cup scheduled to be held in February 2010.

Speaking at a press conference held here today to announce the commencement of sailing of Alinghi in Al Hamra, Dr. Khater Massaad, CEO of Ras Al Khaimah Investment Authority and Advisor to RAK Crown Prince, said that the infrastructure works at the 22 hectare purpose- built America’s Cup Island in Al Hamra Village is ready. “The base for the teams is ready along with the roads connecting to the island. The related infrastructure including water, sewerage and electricity are also ready. The setting up of the pontoon, which remains to be done, can be completed in two weeks time, he added.

Dr. Massaad said that the emirate has committed a total investment of more than USD 120 million to develop the infrastructure to host the 33rd America’s Cup, including dredging of the area surrounding the lagoon, development of the marine infrastructure and widening of roads and improving and beautifying the general infrastructure at Al Hamra.

Sheikh Omar bin Saqr Al Qasimi, Chairman of the RAK Ruler’s Private Affairs Department, said, “RAK has developed a wonderful venue to host the America’s Cup and I am sure that the event will put UAE and Ras Al Khaimah on the international sailing map.”

Ernesto Bertarelli, Alinghi team President said, "I would like to thank Ras Al Khaimah, the United Arab Emirates, his Highness Sheikh Saud, his Highness Sheikh Omar and Dr Massaad among many others. This is a fantastic venue for the America's Cup. It's an honour and a pleasure to be here and I can't wait to get sailing."

Alinghi will now settle in to a training schedule in the coming days in final preparations towards the America's Cup match.