Newport Doesn't Make List for 2011 America's Cup Pre-Races

America’s Cup Event Authority (ACEA) officials announced earlier this morning that the inaugural AC World Series will begin in Cascais Portugal in August of this year. The following race will be held in Plymouth, England, before moving to the third event in San Diego, California.

Plymouth races will run from Sept. 10 to 18 before moving to the United States on an undetermined date between mid October and early December.

“We have selected venues that reflect both the prestige of the America’s Cup, as well as can bring the action on the water to those on land,” said Richard Worth, Chairman of the ACEA, in the release. “Similar to San Francisco, all of the inaugural America's Cup World Series venues enable spectators to watch the racing live, which will help expose this great sport to more people worldwide.”

Despite not being chosen this time around, the Rhode Island Economic and Development Corporation is still working to get Newport on the list for 2012.

“While a 2011 race was mentioned during our ongoing negotiations, a 2012 pre-regatta race puts us in a better position to ensure success for a large-scale, international event that we anticipate will generate tremendous visitor and media excitement,” said Keith Stokes, Executive Director for RIEDC. “By holding a pre-regatta in 2012, the state will have a better opportunity to plan, execute and coordinate numerous details, including infrastructure improvements to Fort Adams State Park and the availability of hotel accommodations.”