Maybe you've previously read about the Volvo Ocean Race scheduled to take place between late October 2011 and July 2012. Contrary to what you might expect given Volvo is a Swedish automaker, it has nothing to do with cars. Rather, it's the world's ultimate offshore sailing competition, dating back to 1973 when it was known as the Whitbread Round the World Race. This year the Volvo Ocean Race will start in Alicante, Spain. 39,000 miles later, it will commence in Galway Ireland.

Unlike previous years, however, there have been some complications with the route. Namely, Volvo Ocean Race 2011-2012 organizers have been forced to redraw the second and third legs due to potential security breaches caused by pirates in the Indian Ocean. You heard that right, actual real life pirates. After all the reported cases of boat hijackings from Somali pirates earlier this year, we know that they are out there.

Now, instead of sailing through a risk-ridden East African corridor in the Indian ocean on the second and third legs, participants will travel through a 'safe haven' port. In an effort to keep the new course safe, organizers are refraining from disclosing details at this time.

"This has been an incredibly difficult decision," says Knut Frostad, Chief Executive, Volvo Ocean Race. "We have consulted leading naval and commercial intelligence experts and their advice could not have been clearer: 'Do not risk it.' The solution we have found means our boats will still be racing into Abu Dhabi and competing in the in-port race there."¹

Frostad goes on to explain that Abu Dhaubi represents the race's first stopover in the Middle East in its 38-year history. He also emphasizes the fact that the Volvo Ocean Race continues to be the only sailing event to visit five of the world's continents in nine short months.

Interested in more Volvo news - from new cars to new safety technologies - and even the Volvo Ocean Race? Stay tuned. Smothers European Volvo, located at 2881 Corby Avenue in Santa Rosa, CA, is dedicated to keeping you informed.

Source: ¹https://www.media.volvocars.com/global/enhanced/en-gb/Media/Preview.aspx?mediaid=39760