Cup skipper sails into corporate sexism row

By Suzanne McFadden

One of the world's top woman sailors is outraged at what she sees as blatant sexism on the Auckland corporate speaking circuit.

Dawn Riley, skipper of America True, was the first woman to head a campaign in the America's Cup - a sports domain dominated by men.

But yesterday she was insulted when her services as a corporate speaker for electronics giant Philips were rejected because, she was told, she was a woman.

Yachting commentator Peter Montgomery had not been able to make the speech to the Partners Club - a group of Philips' top customers.

Riley was then approached, only to be told yesterday that the organisers did not want a woman.

Yet Jillian Moran, whose company Captive Audience was organising next Tuesday's engagement at the Viaduct Basin, said sexism had nothing to do with the decision not to book the yachtswoman.

"There were lots of other issues involved. That was not one of the reasons. Probably the main one was one of budget.

"It's unfortunate that I gave her that impression, if I did. I work for the client and what they decide to do is what happens."

Riley said Ms Moran had been apologetic, and had told her that Philips had rejected her as a speaker because she was a woman.

"I'm livid - it is so insulting," she said.

"The woman said I shouldn't take it as an insult - but I am absolutely 100 per cent insulted."

Philips could not be contacted for comment last night.