Volvo Ocean Race

Cardiff University has been announced as a leading local partner in the Volvo Ocean Race, the world’s premier sailing series, as it arrives in the city on Monday 28th May.

Throughout the two week event, which will see thousands of spectators descend on Cardiff Bay to experience one of the last stopovers in the 45,000 nautical mile round-the-world race, Cardiff University will be taking part in a range of outreach and engagement activities.

Cardiff Bay and the newly developed Alexandra Head will be transformed into an impressive race village, hosting a free festival of live entertainment and music, water-sports, Volvo Ocean-Race themed attractions and food, drink and trade stalls.

Academics from across the University will be stepping on to a soapbox to broadcast their research to passers-by in the race village, similar to the hugely successful ‘Soapbox Science’ events that take part in the city each year.

As part of the Public Education Programme, academics will be speaking on a number of topics, from ocean currents and climate change to micro-plastics.

Indeed, the event itself will be heavily focussed on the growing problem of plastic pollution in our oceans, with a number of campaigns planned to raise the profile of this burdening issue.

In line with the event’s environmental theme, the University will also be outlining its commitment to a more environmentally friendly future by launching its Environmental Sustainability Strategy during the event.

“We are therefore delighted that the opportunity has arisen for not only the City of Cardiff to host this great event, but for the University to show its support in multiple ways to make it as successful as possible.”

Cabinet Member for Culture and Leisure, Councillor Peter Bradbury said: “Cardiff University is an establishment firmly rooted in the makeup of our city and I am delighted that it will have an integral presence when Cardiff plays host city to the Volvo Ocean Race later this month.

“With the ethos of the event surrounding sustainability and education of marine well fair, it is fitting that the University should have a place on the educational programme, offering its knowledge and research.

“Partnerships like these are essential so that Cardiff can continue hosting and delivering global sporting events which generate a substantial economic boost for Cardiff and Wales’ economy.  

As the event draws closer, we look forward to welcoming Volvo Ocean Race to Cardiff and thousands of new visitors to Wales, who are set to experience a vibrant capital city and a nation with a rich and diverse cultural heritage.”