A ‘clever pig’ is also a ‘cunning ham,’ and a cunningham is one of the sail controls that is critical for going fast in almost every sailboat. This device got its name from Briggs Cunningham, a longtime resident of Southport, CT (home of the Southport Sailing Foundation, founders of CleverPig.org), who was the helmsman of Columbia when she defended the America’s Cup against Sceptre in 1958.

Briggs was also a huge supporter of youth sailing. This web site is designed for ‘clever pigs’ who want to take the next step in their sailing careers, whether it’s the America’s Cup or the Optimist Nationals.

Photo: Briggs Cunningham was the helmsman of Columbia when she won the America’s Cup off Newport, RI in 1958.