Event Opening Ceremony of the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-2009 Singapore Stopover
Organiser ONE15 Singapore Ocean Race
Venue Sentosa Cove
Agency Silver Bullet 
Group size 3,000 (public), 200 for hosted reception 
Date January 8 

THE BRIEF
ONE15 Singapore Ocean Race, and sponsors of the Singapore Stopover, wanted a memorable event for guests and the public at the opening of the first Volvo Ocean Race Village. 

CHALLENGES
The biggest challenge of the event was planning for wet weather. The seating area for the VIPs in front of the stage was not covered. Good weather was also important because the skippers of the seven yachts were to enter the reception area in trishaws and meet the public. The organisers’ chief operating officer, Rob Turnbull, says: “Fortunately, the weather was kind and we had a  dry evening with a cool breeze.”

EXECUTION
The triennial Volvo Ocean Race made its first stopover in Singapore and the Race Village at Sentosa Cove was full of activity. The casual set-up and ‘Uniquely Singapore’ welcome theme had to factor in security concerns, due to the presence of a local government minister, top corporate heads and VIPs. With the help of security personnel, members of the public were able to observe proceedings beyond the reserved area.

The opening ceremony included an acrobatic lion dance performance accompanied by Chinese, Malay and Indian percussion instruments to highlight Singapore’s multicultural society. Cakes, canapés and sponsored Tiger Beer made catering simple.

VERDICT
Turnbull says: “The entrance of the skippers was fantastic, as it was something new and exciting for them and also unique to the Singaporean culture. The sailors and their visiting families were enthralled by the special lion dance performance. For some, it was their first visit to Singapore and Asia. “Everyone was very enthusiastic and enjoyed the celebration — an official opening, yet  relaxed and entertaining.”