TNZ is to partner with the Motor Neurone Disease Association of New Zealand as the official charity of the Team for the 36th America’s Cup.

Motor Neurone Disease (MND) causes the muscles that enable us to move, speak, swallow and breathe to gradually stop working. New Zealand has the highest known rate of MND in the world, with an average of two people diagnosed each week and well over 300 people living with the condition.

ETNZ has first-hand experience witnessing the devastation of MND through team mate and current Director of America’s Cup Event Ltd (ACE), Greg Horton.

“Greg has been and continues to be an undeniable inspiration to the team while fighting MND,” says ETNZ CEO Grant Dalton.

“While the disease is having a devastating effect on him physically he has always remained so strong and optimistic despite his personal hardship. He contributed to our success in winning the Cup in Bermuda, and he still manages to undertake his vital role towards the planning for the 36th America’s Cup in 2021.”

Greg is also a member of the National Council of the not-for-profit charity MND New Zealand which supports people living with MND, their family and carers and health professionals to enable them to have the best possible quality of life.

MND New Zealand General Manager Carl Sunderland says it’s a huge honour to be the Official Charity of ETNZ.

“We rely almost completely on the generosity of the New Zealand community to continue to provide free, personalised support to people living with MND, their carers and families and this partnership will help raise awareness of this devastating disease and the vital work we do.”

To make a donation to MND New Zealand, visit www.mnd.org.nz