Volvo Ocean Race Galway
The Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09 is the world's premier yacht race for professional racing crews, starting from Alicante in Spain the race spans some 37,000 nautical miles, stopping at 11 ports and taking nine months to complete. The Volvo Ocean Race sails its way into Galway Bay May 22nd - 23rd 2009 following the transatlantic leg, racing from Boston, it will stay in Galway for a two week stopover before leaving on the next leg to Göteborg in Sweden.
Spectators will be able to view the fastest sailing boats in the world up close, while they are moored in Galway Harbour. Among them is Ireland's own Green Dragon, constructed and built in China and financed by Irish and Chinese investors. The weekend from May 30 to June 1 sees a three day in port sailing competition, offering the competitors a chance to gather more points. Spectators can follow the races from the long prom in Salthill, which provides the ideal vantage point as it stretches for about 1.5 miles along Galway Bay and is situated within walking distance from the Race Village.
Volvo Ocean Race Galway Entertainment
Arrival weekend
May 22th 2009
- Live music in race village.
- Street theatre and children’s entertainment by day.
- Unique celebrations as each boat arrives.
- Official race village opening ceremony 22nd -24th May 2009
Midweek entertainment
May 25th 2009
- On water activities including sportsboat regattas, special interest boats and ‘Come and try Sailing’ event.
- Live entertainment in race village each night.
In Port Racing Weekend
May 30th 2009
- Live action viewing from Salthill Promenade.
- Late entertainment with local and international bands.
- Food and Wine Fair - Flavours of Galway and beyond.
- 30th May-1st June
Midweek Entertainment
June 2nd 2009
- On water activities including sportsboat regattas,special interest boats and ‘Come and try Sailing’ event.
- Food and Wine fair.
- Markets and Exhibitions - food, arts and crafts.
Departure Weekend
June 5th 2009
- Fireworks spectacular.Headline act concert.Departure of race yachts and ‘Parade of Sail’ spectacular.Farewell celebration in race village Saturday 6th.Food and Wine Fair.5-6 June 2009
For more information on this year's events visit www.letsdoitgalway.com or visit www.thp.ie
