Volvo Baltic Race 2004 to start in Göteborg

Last year's major Scandinavian offshore race, the Volvo Baltic Race, is coming back 2004 in a different form. More stop-overs and longer legs, more competition and more spectator-friendly events are just some of the changes.

See boats at close range
This time, the race will start in Göteborg, and continue via Copenhagen, Kiel and Warnemünde, to the finish at Sandhamn. During the race, the boats will also take part in Kiel Week, the Round Gotland Race and in several in-port races. The public will have a chance to see the spectacular V.O.60 boats, which have already circumnavigated the globe, at close range. This opportunity is otherwise only available at the starts and finishes of the Volvo Ocean Race.

Large leisure areas
One of the main changes is taking place on land. In Göteborg, Copenhagen and Stockholm, there will be large leisure areas with restaurants, beer-bars, live stage acts and giant-screen TV, which will also show Sweden's matches against Italy and Denmark in the European Cup in football. In Göteborg, Copenhagen and Stockholm, Joe Labero will be present with his own vessel, the "Ship of Illusions" and will offer world-class entertainment.

Offshore sailing at highest level
Just like last year, the main event is offshore sailing at the highest level. Last year's success has ensured that the reputation of the race has spread among professional sailors, and many are interested in taking part. So it is likely that several of the veterans of the Volvo Ocean Race will be on the starting line on 19 June in Göteborg. Three tough weeks later, on 7 July, the winner will cross the line in Sandhamn. Thomas Blixt with Sony Ericsson, and Mathew Humphries with Elanders have already accepted the challenge, and are two of the favourites in this summer's Volvo Baltic Race.

One of the toughest races
"Volvo has very quickly become perhaps the most important and long-term player in ocean racing, and with the Volvo Baltic Race they have neatly bridged the gap between the Volvo Ocean Races. Many have tried this before, but none have succeeded,” says Gurra Krantz, owner of the winning yacht in last year's Volvo Baltic Race. ”Last year's race was really dramatic, with storm-force winds and speeds over 30 knots. It was one the most enjoyable and toughest yacht races I have ever taken part in”, says skipper Matthew Humphries, Volvo Ocean Race veteran and second-placed in last year's race, who was beaten on the line by a single point.

More about the Racing Scene