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The waters off Vigo will provide excellent training and testing opportunities and Davila Sports Marina's facilities and support are first class. 'We have looked at several locations in Spain and other countries,' explains shore manager Dave POWYS, continuing, 'but in the end Vigo offered the best combination of accessible sailing, first-rate facilities and good infrastructure. And Davila Sports Marina is really getting its resources behind us. Their flexibility allows us to work on our yacht at any time, day or night, making this the right choice for our shore base.'

Robert BAER, general manager of Marina Davila Sport, said it was very important for the marina to have such a professional team at their facilities. 'It will help us to get known, with our brand new marina and all our work facilities, such as our great boat storage building, our paint shop and our own professionals. We are also getting help from the people at Nautic Supply and the Council of Vigo. We will help this team have the best preparation with the best stay here.'

POWYS also said the Ericsson Racing Team had been adopted by the Monte-Real Club D Yates Bayona. 'It is our intention to visit the club to meet and relax with the members and to sail from the club whenever possible,' he said. 'We thank the club for its support and generous offer of assistance to our campaign to win the Volvo Ocean Race.'

New watch captain, POWELL, 34, is no stranger to the Volvo Ocean Race, having completed the race three times, most recently as watch captain on Tyco during the 2001-2002 event. Born and raised in Great Britain, and with a strong background in dinghy sailing, POWELL embarked on his first Whitbread Round the World Race in 1993 on Dolphin and Youth. Four years later, he returned on Silk Cut with fellow Ericsson Racing Team team members Neal MCDONALD (GBR) and Steve HAYLES (GBR). He has been at the helm of many winning yachts, including a top scoring entry in the Admiral's Cup, and has twice won the Tour de France à la Voile, earning him a fierce reputation as one of the world's most experienced and competitive offshore helmsmen.

MCDONALD said: 'Tim POWELL is one of the best offshore helmsmen in the world and I am very pleased we have him with us. His experience in the last three races will prove invaluable.'