Conner in Tears as America’s Cup Is Given Back to U.S.

Australia bade a sad farewell to the America’s Cup at an emotional presentation ceremony to Dennis Conner’s victorious Stars & Stripes team today.

The Royal Perth Yacht Club’s hold on sailing’s most coveted trophy ended Wednesday when the Stars & Stripes completed a 4-0 washout of defender Kookaburra III.

But Conner, who was the defeated skipper when Australia captured the 136-year-old trophy in 1983, did not have the appearance of a man taking sweet revenge when the cup was formally handed back to the United States today. He was choked with emotion when the glittering silver trophy was presented to his San Diego Yacht Club.