Galway could be in line to host the last leg of the 2011/12 Volvo Ocean Race, the Galway Independent has learned. Both Lisbon and Lorient have now been announced as host cities for the race. However, because of a fall in the number of suitable Asian ports, hopes are still high that Galway will be chosen as a stopover, with the chances of holding the final leg a real possibility.

Should the race organisers decide to hand Galway the prestigious last port slot, Galway's application to incorporate a ‘Round Ireland leg' becomes a real possibility.

Speaking to the Galway Independent this week, Chairman of Let's Do It Galway, John Killeen said he is still confident that Galway will get the nod.

"It looks like we might be in direct competition with Amsterdam and Sweden to host the final leg now. We will probably find out on Tuesday next, but it is fingers crossed at this stage. All we can do is anticipate their decision now."

Mr Killeen also confirmed that as part of the initial submissions the Galway bid included plans to bring the boats into Galway Bay and then for them to complete a circuit of Ireland with the race finish back in Galway Bay.

"Should Galway be handed the final stop, it would be fantastic. To hold the grand finale of the event would be amazing. It would be a unique occasion, but we are not there yet," he said.

Knut Frostad, CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race, refused to comment on the status of the Galway application, however, he said "Galway did a very good job" when holding the event last.

"We will make an announcement once the decision has been reached," he said.

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