The Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority announced today that two-time British Olympic medallist and past Volvo Ocean Race skipper, Ian Walker, will take the helm for the emirate's debut in the next edition of the race.

British Olympian Ian Walker (40), most recently skippered Green Dragon in the 2008-09 race and his career spans two decades in sailing and coaching including Olympic campaigns, the America's Cup and TP52s.

Walker will also be design consultant on the specially-designed Volvo Open 70, capitalising on his years of experience to guide the campaign through the preparations and the race.

ADTA, which was behind the emirate's successful bid to become a 2011-12 Volvo Ocean Race home port, considers Walker's appointment to be a major coup for Abu Dhabi's first foray into the race.

"Ian is the lynchpin in the dream team we are determined to secure," explained Ahmed Hussein, Deputy Director General, ADTA. "His high profile sends a signal of the seriousness of our ambitions in a sport which will help us build international awareness of our long maritime pedigree and exceptional coastline and surrounding waters."

Knut Frostad, CEO of the Volvo Ocean Race is very pleased to have Ian Walker back in the race. "We believe he will be an excellent skipper and leader for Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing," he said. "The host city is an excellent venue for sailing and hopefully this project will encourage and ignite passion for sailing within the region."

Read the full story here: http://www.volvooceanrace.com/news/article/2010/abu-dhabi-announces-skipper-w...