Volvo Race 'move to Cork' rumours quashed

The organisers of the Volvo Ocean Race stopover in Galway have rejected suggestions that the event could be relocated to Cork.

Let’s Do It Galway chairman John Killeen told Galway City Council last week that he was aware of such rumours in circulation. The stopover – the first round-the-world race to berth in an Irish port – would take place as planned in Galway from May 23rd to June 6th, he told councillors in a presentation to the local authority members. He did however admit there were “challenges” which stillhad to be addressed – including ongoing negotiations with both Topaz and Chevron Ireland in relation to the continued presence of a number of massive oil tanks on the docks, which were due to be removed some months ago.

The stopover is estimated to be worth in excess of €40 million to Galway’s economy, although there has been a drop in anticipated corporate sponsorship. With up to 350,000 visitors expected to be attracted to the event, which is being supported by the Government many in Galway are worried that any failure by the organising committee will result in a long term embarrasment for Galway and Ireland in general.