As the computer age came into being in the 1980 a new stage evolved using cutting-edge design software. Specialist design companies and engineers designed prototype models of a boat. Using computer simulations, teams tested various forces acting on a sailboat. If designers could reduce the underwater hydrodynamic forces (resistance) that act on a boat’s hull, then a boat could reduce drag and turn more quickly. These technological developments brought the Australians, New Zealanders and Italians into the race, each with their own multi-million dollar team.