Successful start for ocean race and Alicante

A WEEK after the Volvo Ocean Race was launched from Alicante port, those responsible for the Race Village and the Alicante experience said it was “the most successful edition in the history of the race in Spain.”

Adolfo Rodriguez, director of the Alicante Race Village, said attendance during the 10 days it was open “has been spectacular with both domestic and international visitors and they have not been disappointed.”

A total of 313,463 people visited the exhibitions and attractions for the Volvo Ocean Race at the port, along with delegates from 15 countries.

Hotel occupancy also received a boost recording an average of 90 per cent occupancy during the opening weekend which coincided with the in-port race.

Adolfo added: “Alicante has had a huge branding internationally, thanks in part to the 834 accredited journalists from 42 countries on five continents. Both the volunteer programme and the schools deserve special mention because of the great reception. More than 450 volunteers have been involved in the organisation, both at land and sea.” The school programme resulted in the visit of 2,800 schoolchildren from 57 schools.

Race latest

Dongfeng Race Team lost the lead at the weekend after the boat hit an unidentified object and broke their rudder. The problem enabled Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing to take the lead but the rest of the fleet were still hot on their heels. Follow all the race action at www.volvooceanrace.com