Chasing the Cup: My America's Cup Journey

by Jimmy Spithill

Jimmy Spithill is arguably one of the world's greatest the youngest and double winner of the America's Cup, the oceanic version of Formula 1; winner of the Sydney Hobart; multiple world champion in match and fleet racing... the list goes on. And on a day off he'll paddleboard 32 miles through Hawaiian double overhead waves.What goes on inside the head of this extremely focused man who is a true pioneer in the game called sailing? Here he tells his rags-to-riches story of fierce determination, court cases, seasickness, crashed boats and cars, alcohol, the greatest comeback ever in sporting history and the dramatic 2017 America's Cup defence. All of it contributed to turning a quiet, bullied, water-loving blue-collar redhead born in Sydney into one of sailing's biggest rockstars.Far from the official media-trained account so often found in the closed-off world of the America's Cup, Jimmy's open, honest style gives us a rare insight into what goes on inside the head of a man at the top of his game. A compelling read, with many lessons in leadership, teamwork and achieving your dreams, no matter how impossible they might seem.

209 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 13, 2017

Reviews

[Kim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this memoir of Jimmy Spithills. I had a basic idea of The America's Cup and have been fascinated by the boat development from afar but thoroughly enjoyed this closer look. Jimmy is an admirable person and thoroughly deserves his place in sailing history. His accomplishments are astounding while his manner remains down to earth. Jimmy and Rob Mundle have put together a well paced and not overly technical personal account. It's a memoir for everyone to be inspired by but a teen sailor or sportsperson could do much worse than to have a read and be inspired by this self-effacing red headed sailor.

[Bernice · Rating 5 out of 5]

An absolutely brilliant read, and a book which has totally changed my thoughts about Jimmy Spithill. I am 100% kiwi and an America’s Cup fan. Like many Kiwis I thought Spithill had ‘attitude’ but after reading his book feel that he is an incredibly focused sailor who has given everything he possibly can in order to succeed on the water. His focus isn’t solely on winning, he has encouraged and made it possible for younger hopeful sailors to give sailing a go. Without this forward thinking there would be very few kids who could reach the heights that Jimmy and his mates have achieved.

[Angela Campbell · Rating 4 out of 5]

An impressive addition to the sports biography shelf, the autobiography of James Spithill is surprisingly entertaining , a great contribution to America’s Cup writing and mainly a terrific story of dedication and ambition.
Committing to the goal of professional sporting success, Spithill leaves no doubt as to his drive and commitment. This book would be a great read for any young sailor but it’s so much more than that - something everyone should read if they are interested in what makes success in life.

[SW · Rating 4 out of 5]

An interesting insight into world class sailing and Spithill himself. He comes off as relatively matter of fact acknowledging successes and mistakes. An interesting balance of having enough ego to be driven but also self-effacing enough to learn new lessons. Also while I'm still a fan of classical monohull racing in the America's Cup, I now have a better appreciation of what goes into multihull racing.

[Fabo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm biased because I've watched on live tv many of the races Jimmy talks about as a sailing fanatic. But what story, what an inside to one the world best, if not the world best, sailors. Inspirational shall I said. Must read for anyone interested in the America's cup or sailing.

[David · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm a Kiwi, and I read the book in September 2024 while Jimmy was competing in Barcelona for his sixth America's Cup. Honestly, the book could've ended with the biggest comeback ever, but those extra chapters really highlight what being a true sportsman is all about.

[Russell Painton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Exciting read

A good read. Not written by a professional writer.
Even so. Entertaining, and A must read for all competitive sailors.

[Margot Timbel · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm a fan. I learned more about Jimmy from this book. I liked some of the simple focal point quotes for competitors.

[Zac Blomeley · Rating 5 out of 5]

After meeting Jimmy, it's a true testament to his character