VX40 action in Baltimore

Volvo catamarans draw their claws for more competition

There will be a unique sight on Baltimore’s Inner Harbour this week when it play’s host to the third Volvo Extreme 40 Grand Prix Series - an exciting sailing series that is part of the in-port entertainment package for the Volvo Ocean Race 2005-06.

From 28 April to 3 May the five Volvo Extreme 40 catamarans, representing Holland, Great Britain and America, will be locked in battle as they go head to head, providing an exciting spectacle for the public.

With the Volvo Open 70s, that are participating in the Volvo Ocean Race 2005-06, undergoing maintenance work this week after arriving into Baltimore on the 17th April from Rio de Janeiro, the Volvo Extreme 40s will provide the entertainment on the Inner Harbour.

The Volvo Extreme 40s will compete in up to four races a day with the series pausing on Saturday 29 April for the Volvo Open 70s to participate in the in-port race. The series will culminate in a final showdown on 3 May when the winner of the Baltimore round will be crowned, adding a valuable ten points towards their overall series points.

The Volvo Extreme 40 is a strict one-design catamaran that has already become one of the most dynamic multihulls on the inshore racing circuit. The boats are capable of reaching 35 knots in flat waters and in six knots of breeze can fly one hull, making them a must see for spectators.

Racing commences on Friday 28 at 14:00 (local).

Overall Series Rankings (after two events)
1st Tommy Hilfiger 16 pts
2nd Basilica 15 pts
3rd Motorola – CHR 12 pts
4th Volvo Ocean Race 12 pts
5th Holmatro 11 pts
Remaining Volvo Extreme 40 Grand Prix Series Dates
Portsmouth, UK 27 May – 3 June, 2006
Rotterdam, Netherlands 9-14 June, 2006