Malin Burnham of San Diego has been praised for his nearly three decades of enthusiastic hands-on involvement in America's Cup Competition. In 1977, he was helmsman and skipper of ENTERPRISE in defender trials. In 1980, he sailed frequently as helmsman of the trial-horse boat for Dennis Conner's winning FREEDOM Campaign. In 1983 he did likewise for the LIBERTY Campaign. In 1987 he founded and served as President/CEO of the Sail America Foundation, which funded and provided logistical support for Dennis Conner's winning STARS & STRIPES Campaign. In 1988 he chaired San Diego Yacht Club's successful defense.
An indefatigable civic leader with a passion for community involvement, Malin Burnham's philanthropic zeal is reflected in his support of numerous charities and benevolent organizations ranging from the Boy Scouts to the Burnham Institute for Cancer Research. He is a long-time member and supporter of numerous professional and civic organizations. His participation and leadership in America's Cup competition reached its zenith in 1992 when he served as General Chairman for the overall America's Cup Regatta in San Diego. Malin is a world-class sailor, who won the Star World Championship at the age of 17 and has been winning races ever since. Never content to watch from the sidelines, preferring active participation and hands-on involvement to make a difference, Malin Burnham's passion for sailing and love of America's Cup competition have helped him to make a unique personal contribution to the sport.