Two-time America's Cup Winner Joins ORACLE BMW Racing

New Zealander Craig Monk Gives Immediate Boost to the Team in the Battle for the Legendary Trophy

KIEL, Germany, July 1 -- "CEO Chris Dickson's concept convinced me. It provides the right platform from which to challenge for the 2007 America's Cup in Europe," stated Craig Monk, explaining his decision for joining the ORACLE BMW Racing team. The 35 year-old New Zealander is the second prominent sailor to sign on after helmsman Gavin Brady. The two New Zealand compatriots, Monk and Brady, are currently combining forces to take part in the Kiel Week Olympic Star Class boats as part of their preparation for an Athen's Olympics nomination.

Chris Dickson: "Craig Monk brings a tremendous amount of experience with him and he has a long list of successes. He has a terrific amount of energy and will strengthen the team in the main grind position as well as assisting with the team's fitness program."

Monk, who began sailing at the tender age of six, won an Olympic Bronze in the Finn Class in Barcelona in 1992. He celebrated his greatest sporting success in the America's Cup; winning the legendary silver-pot with Team New Zealand in 1995 and again in 2000.

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