Dubai: Abu Dhabi's state-of-the-art Volvo Open 70 racing yacht, which will become the first Arab entry into the Volvo Ocean Race this October, has been named Azzam defining the determination of the emirate's race ambitions.
"Azzam reflects our determination to deliver an outstanding performance in this race and to strive as best as possible for a podium place," said Shaikh Sultan Bin Tahnoun Al Nahyan, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA), and Team Principal.
"It also reflects the fortitude shown by the pearl divers and traders who shaped our ancient maritime heritage."
ADTA has awarded Luis Aguilar of Spain a VIP New Year stay in Abu Dhabi after his Alazan entry into the naming competition came closest to the choice.
Terrific response
"The competition received a terrific response with some 2,415 entries from 73 nations," said Dayne Lim, product development director at ADTA.
"Luis' entry was a close runner to Azzam and we look forward to welcoming him and his guest to Abu Dhabi for the New Year celebrations."
Azzam, developed by the USA's Farr Yacht Design and built by Italy's Persico SpA in Bergamo, is one of the most sophisticated ever constructed. It is the culmination of more than 7,000 design and 49,000 build hours. It made its international debut on Tuesday in Portofino, Italy.
Emblazoned with a striking falcon, the national emblem of the UAE, the yacht will carry the 11-strong Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing team through international waters in the 39,000 nautical mile race which begins in Alicante, Spain.
The team is skippered by double-Olympic medallist Ian Walker of Great Britain. Its crew represents five continents and boasts two UAE nationals, marking the first time an Emirati will compete in the race.
