The Nippon Challenge: Japan's Pursuit O

Five years ago, Japanese business executive Tatsumitso Yamasaki suggested that Japan enter the 1992 America's Cup yachting competition to show the world that Japan was willing and able to join in Western sports competition. Business and industry agreed to support the Nippon Challenge and in the campaign have hired foreign expertise to develop native talent and have designed and built boats at a cost of nearly $70 million. Smith, Tokyo bureau chief for the International Herald Tribune and New Yorker correspondent, examines preparations for the event from which he draws insight into the Japanese character and culture. With a New Zealand coach and skipper, a carefully screened crew and the latest technology, big-time ocean racing still presents problems for the Japanese team in terms of learning per original; clearer?/fine.gs individuality and responsibility. The crew, according to Smith, faces a different emotional and psychological experience than do competitors in other sports. This compelling story should appeal to both the business and yachting communities. (May)