Team seeks loyal young donor

Wherever you are and whoever you are, Team New Zealand wants to get in touch.

Moved by a letter from South Auckland this week, Team New Zealand has asked the Herald to help them find the young author, who didn't sign his full name.

Their new fan not only said he hoped they'd had a merry Christmas, but sent some of his pocket money to help them defend the America's Cup next month.

The team want to thank him, by inviting him to their Viaduct Harbour home so he can see their boats and meet the sailors and designers. If he is old enough, and his parents agree, he may even ride on a chase boat as the two black boats head out for training.

The illustrated letter arrived this week with a small but significant donation for the team. It was signed with a first name, but not a surname.

"To Team New Zealand, I hope you had a nice Christmas," the letter read. "I hope you win the America's Cup."

Syndicate head Tom Schnackenberg said the team received many letters from children, but this one stood out.

"It's not a school project, he's taken the time in his holidays. We'd just like to meet him to say thank you in person."

The letter's author is asked to telephone Team New Zealand on (09) 363-6900.

nzherald.co.nz/americascup

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