WDCS has partnered with Team Russia in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09 to raise awareness of the need for protected places in the sea for whales and dolphins. Together we are competing under the banner of 'We Sail for the Whale'.

Covering over 37,000 miles, lasting 9 months and competing in some of the most challenging environments on Earth, the Volvo Ocean Race is the premiere event in the sailing calendar and one of the most extreme endurance challenges.

Team Russia is the only privately-funded yacht in this Volvo Ocean Race. Funded entirely by St. Petersberg businessman Oleg Zherebtsov and skippered by long-time WDCS supporter and Olympic athlete Andreas Hanakamp, Team Russia have named their yacht 'Kosatka' (Russian for orca) in honour of the speed, agility and exemplary teamwork displayed by these animals. The name also honours the orcas of Kamchatka in Far East Russia and WDCS's long-term commitment to the study and conservation of this population.

Southern right whale footage courtesy of El Dorado Contenidos (www.eldoradocontenidos.com)

www.whales.org (less info)