International marine sport, leisure and event logistics provider GAC Pindar has extended its partnership with the Volvo Ocean Race ahead of the 2017-18 edition of the sailing event.
GAC Pindar will serve as the official logistics provider for the 2017-18 Race, which begins in Alicante, Spain on October 22. The company held the same position for the 2014-15 Race.
As part of the deal, GAC Pindar’s offices across the world will collaborate to provide its range of services for the event. Services will include customs clearance and the transportation of pavilions and hospitality infrastructure, broadcast and other support equipment.
“As a unique global event working under severe time pressures and facing unexpected obstacles, flexible logistics management is integral to operational delivery of the Volvo Ocean Race,” Race chief operating officer Richard Mason said. “The 2017-18 edition will see the sailors tackle one of the toughest race courses in recent history – and with 12 host cities on six continents, we’re facing a challenge on-shore, too.
“Working alongside a world-class, industry-leading player such as GAC Pindar, gives us great faith that we can not only meet those challenges, but over-deliver once again.”
GAC Pindar played a key role in assisting two teams getting back on track during the 2014-15 Race after their boats encountered difficulties. The company came to the aid of the Donfeng Race Team after its mast snapped en route to Brazil, while it also helped moved Team Vestas Wind’s boat after it ran aground on the Cargados Carajos Shoals near Mauritius.
GAC Pindar in November entered into a long-term partnership with World Sailing, the sport’s global governing body. The partnership will see GAC Pindar back sailing’s bid for a return to the Paralympic Games. It will serve as an official partner of World Sailing in the marine logistics and shipping sector.
GAC Pindar is also the official logistics provider for the Extreme Sailing Series, World Match Racing Tour and the M32 Series.