The Volvo Ocean Race Fleet came into Galway Port in the early hours of this morning with French boat Groupama, crewed by Irishman Damian Foxall, finishing second in the final off shore leg and securing enough of a lead to land the title ahead of this week’s final racing around Galway Bay.
The final offshore leg was won by Camper / Emirates Team New Zealand who are now almost certain of overall second place in the race.
The arrival of the fleet was greeted by as many as 100,000, and is expected to generate millions in revenue for the local economy as well as many thousands of overseas visitors.
An eight day festival of marine, sport, culture and arts, entertainment and food kicked off on Saturday and will continue through next weekend.
 “The last Volvo Ocean Race stopover provided a dramatic boost for Irish tourism back in 2009, generating an estimated economic impact of €55m for Galway and Ireland with 650,000 visitors welcomed at the Race Village and Salthill,” said Minister of State for Sport Michael Ring, welcoming the event. “It was broadcast to a global TV audience of 1.3 billion and the race is a great opportunity for positive global media coverage for Galway and Ireland”
Fáilte Ireland has lined up an extensive list of displays and activities to showcase Ireland as a tourism destination.
“We want Galway and the region to be portrayed in the best positive light to visitors, media and participating teams during the Volvo Ocean Race,” said Fiona Monaghan of Failte Ireland.  “Making sure that local businesses are fully ‘on board’ to welcome visitors is a key part of that.  With over 100 local businesses signed up to our Value, Quality and Service Charter we hope that everyone will leave Galway having enjoyed a memorable experience that will remain with them for years to come.
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