Defender 12M

DEFENDER (US-33), an aluminum Twelve Metre designed by Pedrick Yacht Designs and built by Newport Offshore Ltd. A 1983 America s Cup Defender Trials candidate, she was campaigned by Tom Blackaller and Gary Jobson with a world-class crew. She later served as a trial horse, entered private ownership, and received an engine. A full Victory Team refit (2010 18) restored her competitiveness, including 1st Place at METREFEST NEWPORT (2017). She was donated to the USMMA Sailing Foundation in 2020.

Vessel History: 1982 1983 Built for light-air performance using early computer modeling and hydrodynamic testing. Entered the 1983 America s Cup Defender Trials with Tom Blackaller as skipper. 1986 2000 Served as a trial horse for Heart of America, later sold to Brian Mock (CA). Engine installed in 1989. Cruised extensively under several owners until purchased in 2000 by Ken Carrico (FL). 2010 18 Victory Team Refit Acquired by Dennis Williams; transported to Rhode Island for a full refit. Structural rebuild, new systems, carbon spars, updated deck plan, and modern electronics. Returned to racing in 2017, winning METREFEST NEWPORT. Donated to the USMMA Sailing Foundation in 2018. 2019-2020 Competed in the 12 Metre World Championship, finishing 7th in the Modern Division. Was subsequently donated to the USMMA Sailing Foundation Inc.