Volvo Ocean Race
The Volvo Ocean Race fleet were in Wellington 16 - 19 February, 2006 for a 'pit stop' between legs of this round-the-world race. While in Wellington, there were free events at Queens Wharf to celebrate, including live performances and ceremonies to mark the yachts' arrival and departure.
Arrival
The arrival of the fleet delivered the closest finish of any leg in the history of the Volvo Ocean Race. After racing more than 2,200km, over 3 days, and 22 hours from Melbourne, only nine seconds separated the first place Spanish entry, Movistar, from the second place Dutch yacht ABN AMRO. The US entry Pirates of the Caribbean took third.
Departure
On 19 February the fleet started the fourth leg of the race to Rio de Janeiro. Thousands of people filled Queens Wharf, the surrounding bays, and spectator boats to catch a glimpse of the fleet as they raced out of Wellington harbour.
The fleet jostled for the best position on the start line all within 200 metres of the engrossed local spectators. Then the fleet picked up speed in the 16 knot gusts and headed out towards Cook Straight.
Conclusion
After 225 days at sea the Volvo Ocean Race has concluded in the Swedish port of Gothenburg. ABN AMRO One, skippered by New Zealander Mike Sanderson, took overall first place. Pirates of the Caribbean took second, and Brasil 1 took third.
Results - Volvo Ocean Race website
The next race will be in 2008.
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