Sanya kicks off preparation work for Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012
Preparations for the Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012 are going according to plan. Local authorities have carried out activities to make full use of the race to promote its international image as a tourist destination, reports xinhuanet.com.
The Volvo Ocean Race, founded by the Royal Navy Association in 1973, was held every three years starting from the edition of 2008-2009. Earning its nickname as the Mount Everest of sailing, the tournament is the world’s toughest and longest sailing race.
This year, the Volvo Ocean Race will start in the Spanish port of Alicante in October 29 and ten cities on five continents have been confirmed as stopover ports.
The Volvo Ocean Race fleets will stay in Sanya from February 4 to February 19, 2012 and the number of expected visitors including professional sailors, sailing enthusiasts and tourists will total 350,000 to come together for the world’s largest sailing event.
During the event, Sanya Government will organize a series of activities including 2012 Fireworks Show, Beach Carnival and Ocean Environmental Protection.