Organisers of Abu Dhabi’s New Year hosting of the round-the-world Volvo Ocean Race fleet are calling on UAE sports enthusiasts to join it as it makes sailing history.
Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) - which is behind the UAE capital’s historic race fleet hosting, which takes place from December 31 until January 14, 2012 next year at a purpose-built ‘Destination Village’ on Abu Dhabi’s Corniche - is looking for volunteers to fill a wide variety of land-based roles.
These exciting roles range from overseeing many of the top village attractions, including the state-of-the-art, Volvo Ocean Race 3D cinema and ‘Life at the Extreme’ simulators, as well as accreditation officers, race operations, medical staff, activity leaders and race village experience support. Abu Dhabi will be the first Middle East destination to host the ‘Everest of Sailing’ fleet.
Volunteers will undergo full pre-event preparatory training, including a specialised Volvo Ocean Race mentor programme, and will receive official certification of their involvement. The volunteers – 250 are being targeted - will be provided with specially designed Volvo Ocean Race clothing from PUMA, free transportation and parking, a commemorative gift, meals and a chance to get up close and personal with Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing – the ADTA team which is contesting the race in the specially commissioned ‘Azzam’ Volvo 70 yacht.
“This is a great chance to be a part of history in the making and get up-close to the world’s greatest ocean race. We are progressing a full entertainment, attraction and hospitality programme to celebrate the Middle East’s first hosting of the race fleet and need enthusiastic and energetic volunteers to help make our stopover a race highlight this New Year,” said Faisal Al Sheikh, events manager, ADTA.
“This is also a fantastic opportunity for all sailing fans and outdoor sports enthusiasts to see the very best sailors in one of the world’s most exciting destinations and enjoy the fortnight stopover from an unrivalled position.”
Volunteers must be 18-years and over, be able to commit to at least three days, plus a half-day site orientation/training, and speak conversational English. All applications can be made via the event’s official website www.volvooceanraceabudhabi.com