Kerryman may be part of winning Volvo Ocean Race team

The winners of the 2012 Volvo Ocean Race are expected to cross the finish line tonight - and an Irishman could be in their midst.

The French team 'Groupama' with Kerry-born Damien Foxhall on board, are in the lead. However, there are another four boats close on their tail.

The vessels departed Lorient in France yesterday and are expected to hit Galway Port tonight or early tomorrow morning.

Chairman of Volvo Ocean Race festival organiser Lets Do It Global Enda O'Coineen said: "These boats are very strong. They've been through every condition imaginable.

"(The conditions on the sea for this race) are nothing compared to what they have already experienced."