Team Prada received by New Zealand Prime Minister
by Prada Media Centre 9 Mar 2000 07:09 GMT
THE PRIME MINISTER OF NEW ZEALAND RECEIVES TEAM PRADA
Team Prada has been received yesterday in Wellington, together with Team New Zealand, by the Prime Minister of New Zealand, The Right Honourable Helen Clark.
Both two teams boarded a Royal New Zealand Air Force Hercules C130 at the RNZAF base in Auckland and flew to Wellington carrying the America's Cup.
At midday Prime Minister Helen Clark received both teams in Parliament and expressed her gratitude for the great competition and the sportsmanship showed by both crews during the 30th Match for the America's Cup.
Patrizio Bertelli, CEO of Prada, and Francesco de Angelis, skipper of Luna Rossa, saluted the Prime Minister manifesting their recognition for the incredible support shown by the people of New Zealand and congratulating Team New Zealand for their well deserved victory.
After the Parliament reception both teams paraded along Wakefield Street to the Civic Square where they were welcomed by Mark Blumsky, Mayor of Wellington. In recognition of their distinguished maritime achievement and eminent contribution to the spirit of our time, the Mayor proclaimed the team Honorary Citizens of Wellington City.
Later in the day team Prada and Team New Zealand were received as guests of Honour at a Reception hosted by His Excellency Dr Roberto Palmieri, Italian Ambassador to New Zealand.
In the evening both teams returned to Auckland on the RNZAF Hercules C130.
More Information: www.Prada-americascup.com