Dear Sir,

I take great exception to Khalid Wasi’s sweeping statement about the America’s Cup in The Royal Gazette’s Opinion section (May 20) that “At first, there were the rumours and allegations that this was to benefit the elites only, and as we enter into the full brunt of the event, nothing has dispelled what was once the rumour”.

Nothing could be farther from the truth.

For example, Mr Wasi should familiarise himself with the superb America’s Cup Endeavour programme, which is here in Bermuda only because of the America’s Cup event being held here.

The America’s Cup Endeavour Programme is the event legacy for host venue Bermuda as part of the 35th America’s Cup. It is underwritten by the America’s Cup Event Authority and supported by its corporate partners: Orbis, PwC, Butterfield Bank, Appleby, Belco, BF&M, Hamilton Insurance Group, Hamilton Princess and Beach Club, and XL Catlin.

In addition, it has its marine and facility partners: AES, Blokart, Hobie, North Sails, O’pen Bic, RS Sailing, Dynamic Dollies and Racks, Harken, Magic Marine, VersaDock and VSR.

There have been many features in The Royal Gazette to highlight this exceptional Endeavour sailing opportunity for our youngsters. My own granddaughter has benefited enormously as a participant in the programme, through which more than 1,550 students aged 9 to 12 from government and private schools throughout Bermuda have been given a complimentary week of sailing instruction and Steam curriculum — science, technology, engineering, arts and maths.

The only qualification required of the students was to be within the age group ... not money, not prior sailing experience and no discrimination whatsoever. Let’s not forget Ahzai Smith and Christopher Raymond, who travelled with Leah Collis, the America’s Cup Endeavour instructor, to New Zealand and came home triumphant.

Mr Wasi has only to watch the media and read the excellent #ourAC supplements in The Royal Gazette to learn not only about Endeavour, but also about the many diverse community events that the America’s Cup participants have supported throughout their time here. Plus all the road resurfacing, painting, building restoration and general improvements throughout our island, which have been done to make Bermuda beautiful again for this event. The America’s Cup is a benefit to every one of us.

I hope Mr Wasi will reconsider his opinion.

VICKY HAMSHERE