Her Royal Highness was greeted upon arrival.
The private reception was held to mark the launch of Britain's attempt to win the America's Cup for the first time, led by four-time Olympic gold medallist Sir Ben Ainslie. Considered Britain's finest Olympic sailor, Sir Ben was a tactician with the victorious American team last year, but said, "The America's Cup is the one last sporting achievement we are yet to conquer as Brits. That is definitely the goal.'
However, Sir Ben's aim depends on the development of design and technology skills in the UK to ensure Britain has the expertise to build a boat capable of winning the famous cup. An enormous £100 million sponsorship is required. Kate's appearance at the event is expected to help raise awareness about the effort.
Kate chatting with a little girl.
We know the Duchess is a keen sailor who beat her husband 2-0 in a head-to-head aboard America's Cup yachts in Auckland during their tour of New Zealand and Australia in April.
It was a delightful event - perhaps the most fun one of the tour - so it must be wonderful for the royals to have the opportunity to support their interests in their official roles.
The America's Cup, the oldest trophy in sport, was first offered as the hundred pound cup in 1851. Queen Victoria watched the inaugural British team lose the America's Cup around the Isle of Wight. For the next 163 years the trophy - known as the Auld Mug by the sailing community - eluded the UK and was won by teams from the US, Australia and Switzerland. Below we see the yacht 'America' winning the international race by Fitz Henry Lane in 1851.
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| Wikipedia |
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| Wikipedia |
The trophy is currently in London (and travelled over in its own seat) for a visit, and no doubt the British entrants are hoping it will make a new home here if their bid is successful.
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| Ben Ainslie Facebook Page |
The cup has attracted attention from public figures all over the world. Below we see President Kennedy and his wife Jackie watching America's Cup in 1962.
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| Wikipedia |
Last year' proud winners Oracle Team USA.
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| America's Cup |
The Duchess met supporters, crew and boat designers before viewing an America's Cup class boat at the museum.
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| Emily Andrews Twitter Feed |
Kate posed in front of the cup and a twin hull racing boat.
Kate and Sir Ben.
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| Clarence House Twitter Feed |
A couple of our readers noted how handsome Sir Ben is. Here's another one just for you ladies :)
What do you think of Kate's chic look today? Let's take a look at what she wore.
The Duchess gave a nod to sailing her in her Crepe Dress with Navy Trim by Jaeger. The short sleeved, crew neck shift dress is an elegant piece and worked very well for Kate. This style of garment is an excellent choice for engagements combining style with professionalism.
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| Jaeger |
A closer look at the dress.
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| Jaeger |
It originally retailed for £150 before going on sale for £99, it was almost completely sold out before today's appearance. If you're hoping to purchase the dress don't despair, Jaeger revealed they will have more stock soon.
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| Jaeger Twitter Feed |
Kate opted for minimal jewellery today, wearing her sapphire and diamond earrings and Asprey charm pendent.
And completed the look with navy suede Alexander McQueen pumps.
There's been a slightly change of plan to Kate's schedule. She was supposed to attend The Queen's Garden Party on Thursday, instead she will attend today's to celebrate Prince Philip's 93rd birthday. We'll be back with another post later covering that event.
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