Volvo Ocean Race

The construction of the Premier Challenge Volvo Open 70 began in October 2004, at Hart Marine in Mornington, Victoria. Hart Marine has a team of 25 talented boat builders working on the boat, with extra guys drafted in when required.

The construction is being project managed by experienced boat builder and proprietor Mal Hart, who is delighted by progress so far. "We are still on schedule and the project is going extremely well. The whole team are all motivated and excited about the Premier Challenge and we are looking forward to seeing the yacht sailing. It promises to be a very fast machine."

The yacht has been designed by experienced yacht designer Don Jones, Chief Designer for the Premier Challenge. "There is no doubt that this yacht will be extremely fast. Under racing conditions in environments such as the Southern Ocean, the yacht will have the potential of reaching speeds of 40 knots."
The new boat is due to be launched in Melbourne in June 2005.

The Premier Challenge has been joined by two major partners to date:
ING Real Estate joined the Premier Challenge in October 2004, as their "Official Construction Partner". Their investment as a major partner has alleviated any financial concerns during the design and build phase of this new Volvo Open 70.

Premier Challenge has been granted a Research and Development Grant issued by the Department of Innovation, Industry and Regional Development of the Victorian State Government. Such a grant has enabled the Premier Challenge investigate ground breaking techniques particularly in the areas of yacht construction, sail development, appendage design and weather analysis.