07.04.07
Alinghi is a lot more than a dinghy
In the closest racing in decades, Alinghi successfully defended the biggest (and oldest) trophy in yacht racing during this past week. Their large sponsorship base and successful marketing helped raise significant funds of course, as did all the teams. But how much easier was it for them when they have such a powerful shorthand name and logo for their endeavor. Sure is a lot easier to call and represent Alinghi than Team Emirates New Zealand.
But what is an Alinghi? And where does the name come from? I instinctively love the name, but know it would have been a hard sell to management (at least this side of the pond). I can just imagine their criticism of the spelling and pronunciation.. as some wise cat also tells me it reminds them of a dinghy… and that is not the image they want to project.
When I find out more, I will surely put on my name critic hat and do a full analysis.. but you already know it is going to get a great rating.
Meanwhile, if for no other reason than to see one of the finest international websites anywhere, visit www.alinghi.com. It is truly beautiful to see (and right up to date the day after the final race) even if you are not fond of water, waves, wind and sails.
EbroRose said,
July 4, 2007 at 11:10 pm
A beautifully crafted abstract and coined name. It is just so perfect for the nautical world,where one is continually struggling wtith alignment (The prefix -aling-)of lines, ropes and sales, while keeping an eye on the compass. The suffix (-hi- or h1) denotes the height of the sail or waves, could also relate to the helm and the “i” is so graphically presented it could be read quite easily as H1..first at the helm, first across the line.
The name is easy to recall, clean and sharp with a swirl of flare, bringing elegance into nautical naming.