Francesco de Angelis receives New Zealand Royal Honours
by Prada Press 5 Jun 2000 08:34 BST
Francesco de Angelis, skipper of team Prada winner of the Louis Vuitton Cup 1999-2000, has been made today an "Honorary Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit (ONZM)" in recognition to his services to yachting and Italian-New Zealand relations. His sportsmanship and the high profile of team Prada considerably enhanced the profile of Italy in New Zealand. This title is part of the New Zealand royal honours system; there are two lists a year and this one is to celebrate the Queen's birthday. The Order of Merit is for people who "in any field of endeavour, have rendered meritorious service to the Crown and nation or who have become distinguished by their eminence, talents, contributions or other merits".
It is the first time that anyone outside New Zealand has been given an award. "I am very honoured to accept this award" said Francesco de Angelis. "I was taken by surprise, especially by receiving such an important title from an overseas country. I am very grateful to the people of New Zealand who have shown such high esteem and appreciation for the work and effort of team Prada over the past three years".
Russell Coutts, skipper of Team New Zealand, has been made a "Distinguished Companion of the NZ Order of Merit" (which replaces the "knight" honour which Sir Peter Blake
received). Alan Sefton also received an ONZM, like Francesco de Angelis.