Tropical paradise stopover

Off the beaten track for Global Ocean Race doublehanders in 2008

Global Ocean Sailing Ventures have announced that Ilhabela, Brazil has been chosen to host the South American stopover for the Global Ocean Challenge 2007/08. After the toughest leg of the race, one that includes rounding the notorious Cape Horn, the sailors will be able to relax and enjoy the stunning beauty and warm hospitality of one of Brazil’s trendiest and most affluent vacation destinations.

Ilhabela, which means beautiful island in Portuguese, is located off the coast of Brazil near the port city of Santos and close to the thriving metropolis of Sao Paulo.

The major of Ilhabela, Manoel Marcos de Jesus Ferreira, welcomed the news. "As the mayor of the Archipelago of Ilhabela I am very pleased to extend to the Global Ocean Challenge our 'caisara' hospitality,” he said. “I am sure that this international event will bring to the island the charm, courage and the dedication of people committed to sail around the world. We invite the Global Ocean Challenge race, it's organizers, competitors and friends to enjoy the beauty of our island, it's people and the richness of our nature and culture.”

With 85% of the island set aside as a rain forest ecological reserve, the miles of tropical beaches and lush mountains will be a welcome respite for the sailors as they prepare for the final two legs of the race.

“In keeping with our mandate to create an event for our competitors, we chose Ilhabela as the South American stopover,” said Race Director Josh Hall. “We were looking for a safe sanctuary for the racers after they round Cape Horn. Ilhabela is the perfect place for them to bring their families and friends, as well as a superb place to entertain their sponsors. It has great facilities and is an ideal place for the teams to recharge before tackling the final stages of the race.”

The first yachts are expected to reach Ilhabela during the last week of February 2008, and the fleet will restart in two groups. The 40-foot solo and double-handed divisions will set sail on March 22, 2008, with the 50-foot divisions taking up the chase a week later.

For more information please go to http://www.gochallenge.net