Doug Peterson, designer of America’s Cup-winning yachts, dies

SAN DIEGO — Doug Peterson, a prominent yacht designer who was to be inducted into America’s Cup Hall of Fame later this year, has died. He was 71. Peterson reportedly died June 26 – just as news of Emirates Team New Zealand’s America’s Cup victory over ORACLE TEAM USA spread around the world. Peterson’s death was confirmed by San Diego Yacht Club, of which he was a member, Associated Press reported. The yacht designer was part of the design team of two America’s Cup-winning yachts – America3 helmed by Bill Koch in 1992 and Team New Zealand’s Black Magic in 1995. “We’re sad to share the passing of one of our longtime members, Doug Peterson, known as one of America’s most accomplished yacht designers of his generation,” a post on San Diego YC’s Facebook page stated. San Diego YC announced Peterson’s planned induction into the America’s Cup Hall of Fame in March. He would be the club’s fourth member to be inducted into the hall, joining Malin Burham, Dennis Conner and Jack Sutphen. The induction ceremony was scheduled to take place aboard the USS Midway in October. His Hall of Fame induction was based on Peterson’s successful yacht designs and accomplished sailing record. “Doug Peterson is known...