New Zealand and France will stage a round-the-world yachting event, it was announced today by French news agency AFP.
The Soloceane race is the brainchild of renowned race organiser Yvan Griboval and comprises a tour of the world in two stages, from France to New Zealand and back again, for52-feet monotype monohull boats.
The event will begin on October 25, 2009, and four ports are competing to host the starting point in France, while either Wellington or Auckland will be chosen from New Zealand, according to the AFP report.
New Zealand's vice-consul in France, Bridget Gee told AFP: "When we were informed of this project, we were very enthusiastic. It will make us a topical part of the world."
