The upcoming Volvo Ocean Race has become a visible presence in Galway city, with the opening of its office in the Eyre Square Centre.

Although it's a temporary headquarters for what will soon become a massive operation, Harbourmaster Captain Brian Sheridan said the office has already prompted increased public interest in the event.

The office, located in the Eyre Square Centre, will soon be home to a full-time Operations Manager and a Race Stopover Manager. Candidates have been found for the positions and will be announced in the next fortnight.

The 'Lets do it Ireland' committee held interviews during December and interviewed a number of candidates including people with sports management experience in events as large as the Olympic Games and the Admiral's Cup. Both positions are being funded by sponsorship raised by the 'Lets do it Ireland' committee.

The Operations Manager will have responsibility for the on-the-ground running of the race, "making sure the machine is well-oiled and organised". Logistics will be a major factor in an event, which will bring thousands of people to Galway and millions of euro to the local economy, with a lot of volunteers required to ensure visiting teams are looked after.

"I have already been in touch with NUIG in relation to getting volunteers for the race. It's about the time students will be finishing their exams so hopefully some of them will be at a loose end," said Capt. Sheridan. Members of local sailing clubs will also be heavily involved in the event.

Both positions will liaise with the harbour office, with local volunteers and with the city council in order to ensure the race runs smoothly at a local level.

Although the race itself will not begin until October this year, there is a huge amount of preparation to be done before the start date.

The next landmark date for the Galway organisers is an appearance on the Late Late Show, which will take place in March. The committee hopes that this, along with a nationwide tour by the Irish yacht, will raise awareness of the event among people countrywide.

The Irish yacht, which is currently being built, will arrive in the UK in May and will compete in the Round Ireland yacht race in June. The boat must sail 2000 nautical miles before competing in the Volvo Ocean Race. It will depart from Dublin in September to reach Alicante, the race's start point, for the start date of 11 October.

A replica of the boat will also be on display in Ballybrit during Race Week.

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