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The 'Sailing the World' exhibition, produced by the Spanish bank La Caixa and the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Olympic Museum and organized in collaboration with ISAF and the Valencia City Council, opened in the historic Atarazanas building on 2 May, giving the spectators gathered for the 32nd America's Cup an opportunity to delve back into the origins of sailing. The origins of the Atarazanas or 'Royal Shipyards' go back to 1338 when the Council to decided to build a warehouse.

The exhibition will remain in Valencia until it moves to the International Olympic Committee's (IOC) Olympic Museum in Lausanne, Switzerland in September.

The exhibition examines the full spectrum of sailing's history, starting approximately 6,000 years ago when the first sails were invented. It traces the history of sailing as a means of transport and discovery and the vital role it has played in trading and the development of different cultures and societies right around the world. In parallel the exhibition examines the begins of sailing as a leisure activity and through to a competitive sport, and its growth in this area which now sees the worldwide exposure of such events as the America's Cup, Volvo Ocean Race and the Olympic Sailing Competition.

Free To The Public

Organized by the La Caixa Foundation, the exhibition is free to the public and combines visual data and information together with physical exhibits. The exhibition features scale models of ships from five continents, and ancient images of life on board. It also focuses on the development of sailing competitions in a section that brings together historical photographs and models of Olympic, ancient and new vessels. A series of audiovisuals, specially produced for the occasion, provides in-depth analysis and a better understanding of certain aspects of sailing.

ISAF President Göran PETERSSON who attended the official opening of the 'Sailing the World' exhibition on 2 May, commented, 'The 'Sailing the World' exhibition creates a unique legacy for sailing. The visitors who visit will gain an increased awareness of sailing. I hope that many will be encouraged to convert their experience at 'Sailing the World' to actually go sailing.'

Recognizing the commitment of the supporting partners, La Caixa, the Valencia City Council and the IOC Museum, PETERSSON added, 'Thank you for your support to sailing and this special collaboration between sport, culture, education and commerce.'

ISAF Centenary

Formed in 1907, ISAF will be celebrating its 100th Anniversary throughout 2007.

Amongst the highlights of ISAF Centenary celebrations will the 2007 ISAF Sailing World Championships and the 'Sail the World' weekend from 1-2 September. ISAF will also be publishing a 100 Years of Sailing commemorative book and launching the ISAF Sailing Hall of Fame.

Every ISAF event throughout 2007 will be an integral part of the Centenary celebrations. Whether a local regatta, or a World Championship event, everyone counts. ISAF would like your event to remember what a special year it is, so welcomes everyone to use the specially commissioned Centenary logo.

Find out more on about the calendar of Centennial Celebrations, relive our Highlights from 100 Years of Sailing and keep up to date with the latest news on the Centenary Celebrations at www.sailing.org/centenary.