Grant Wharington, Barney Walker and Matt Allen have announced the formation of their Australian Volvo Ocean Racing Syndicate – Premier Challenge- for entry into the Volvo Ocean Race starting in 2005. All three syndicate constituents are highly prominent yachtsmen and both Wharington and Walker have been involved in previous Volvo races. Not only is there an abundance of yachting experience shared between these men, there is undisputed success in the business arena.

Wharington commented: “I believe our joining forces has created a formidable team, offering an exceptional mix of offshore yacht racing experience, sponsorship management and financial management. “Barney Walker is a professional sailor of international standing, a veteran of two previous around the world races, currently campaigning in the Star class, for an Olympic medal in 2004 – a consummate yachtsman and the perfect choice for our syndicate Sailing Master.”

Australian, Glenn Bourke, CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race says, “I am delighted that Grant and his team have put together this Australian challenge for the Volvo Ocean Race. The declaration of Premier Challenge is the first of many teams in the final stages of preparations for announcing their entry into the next Volvo Ocean Race. The introduction of the new VO70 has created plenty of interest and our team of designers are spiralling down into the final details which will be released in the form of the VO70 rule on 8 September this year.”