In 1957, J. Burr Bartram, Commodore of the New York Yacht Club, was instrumental in reviving racing for the America's Cup. Along with his colleagues, fellow flag officers of the Club, an appeal was made to the Supreme Court of New York to revise the Deed of gift to permit America's Cup racing in 12-meter yachts. When the 1958 challenge for a 12-meter match from the Royal Yacht Squadron was received, Commodore Bartram immediately appointed an America's Cup Committee to prepare for the first defense since 1937. The races between COLUMBIA and SCEPTRE, in the summer of 1958, were conducted largely through his efforts. In 1965, Commodore Bartram headed the syndicate that financed the design and building of INTREPID, the successful Cup Defender of 1967 and 1970. In 1974, Bartram had a financial interest in the successful defender COURAGEOUS. His dedication, enthusiasm, and support of the America's Cup Races made Burr Bartram a leader in the 12-meter era.
