Rowers from across the world are heading to Australia for last-minute training leading up to the Indian Ocean Rowing Race 2009. This pioneer race will be the first competition to cross the Indian Ocean and the first ocean rowing race to take place in the Southern Hemisphere.

Rowers will depart Geraldton, Western Australia on April 19, 2009. The fastest teams may be able to cross the 3,100 nautical miles in under 60 days. However, organizers anticipate that some boats may need over 100 days to reach their destinations.

The race will conclude in glamorous island of Mauritius. Racers, fans, and media will find a number of luxury hotels Mauritius available to celebration the completion of this water marathon.

Racers will compete in teams of pairs, fours, and eights. There will also be a solo class. Solos and Pairs are expected to take the longest to arrive in Mauritius. Some of the Fours and Eights may need only 40 – 50 days to complete the course. Most racers have received extensive corporate sponsorship and have been training for the event for several years. Many teams are also raising money for charity.

Organizers expect about 30 boats to compete and are only providing one support yacht for the race. Racers are expected to have their own water and food and have been warned to prepare for dehydration and sunstroke as well as water hazards such as sharks and waves as high as 60 feet.