In one of sailing's most unique collaborations, three Chinese industrial companies come together to sponsor offshore sailing project originating from Ireland. The syndicates hope to show the world how countries greatly separated can come together and support each and gain great awareness for both business and tourism.
International Crew Delivers Global Message
The team concept began with Irish roots and backed by Chinese pride but it's the global network of sailors who lead the way around the world:
- Ian Walker, Skipper, GBR
- Ian Moore, Navigator, IRL
- Damian Foxall, Watch Leader, IRL
- Justin Slattery, Bowman, IRL
- Neal McDonald, Watch Leader, GBR
- Guo Chaun, Media Crew, CHN
- Tom Braidwood, Driver, Trimmer, AUS
- Andrew Mclean, Bowman, GBR
- Phil Harmer, Driver, Trimmer, Sailmaker, AUS
- Freddie Shanks, Bowman, GBR
- Anthony Merrington, Pit, Trimmer, Driver, AUS
British Skipper Ian Walker Takes on Volvo Ocean Race
Skipper Ian Walker is one of Britain's most decorated sailors possessing four world championships, two Olympic medals and two America's Cup campaigns under his belt, however this will be his first global offshore challenge. After years of racing around inshore courses, Ian hopes this experience will help him, "fall back in love with sailing in its purest form."
With a properly funded campaign, well built and prepared boat, gifted sailors to support him; Ian believes, "with the ingredients we have in place at the moment we have the potential to do well, a chance of winning, a realistic chance at a podium and a good chance at winning some legs." At the time of publishing, Green Dragon is leading the fleet to the first scoring gate off the coast of Brazil.
Chinese and Irish Ports Host Stop-overs
Another Volvo first is the addition of stop-overs in China and Ireland. With participation of Green Dragon Racing comes the inclusion of Quindao, China as a three-week stop-over, including a famed in-port race before the start of Leg Five. Quindao was the site for the 2008 Olympic sailing venue and well prepared to welcome these carbon fiber steeds due early 2009.
Towards the end of the event, after a stop in Boston, MA; participants will be warmly greeted in Galway, Ireland for about two weeks and sure to include the best of what Ireland has to offer newcomers and old. There will be no inport race and focus will be to recover from the transatlantic leg and celebration for nearly making it all around the world with just a few more legs to go. Three legs remain before conclusion in St. Petersburg, Russia.
For more information on the Volvo Ocean Race, please visit their site for emails from the boats, video and candid photos taken be each team's media crew.
Jennifer Langille - Jennifer had a career in research and development (Pfizer, Inc.) prior to stepping away from the corporate rat race to pursue a career in ...
