Say it big, say it loud

By WAYNE THOMPSON

Devonport residents are preparing a message to cheer Team New Zealand on their way each day they head out to the America's Cup course.

"Devonport Says Go" has been painted on a 12sq m piece of spinnaker used on the team's boat during the 2000 cup defence.

The banner will be draped over a south-facing bank on North Head, making it clearly visible to the sailors as they pass by, says community co-ordinator Pam Chapman, who organised the message with boatbuilders Sue and Kevin Johnson.

Messages of goodwill are being written on the sail by residents of Devonport, which is home for several team members.

Many America's Cup sailors began their careers with local yacht clubs, including the late Team NZ head, Sir Peter Blake.

Across the harbour, the Black Boat will be spurred on by a haka party of watersiders at the Axis Fergusson container terminal.

Ports of Auckland says Ngati Whatua haka coaches are helping to prepare up to 200 men and women for a rousing send-off each race day.

nzherald.co.nz/americascup

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