The annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race commenced on Thursday, with the supermaxis Comanche and LawConnect leading the charge. Right from the start, Comanche took command, sailing with agility over its rival LawConnect, who faced unexpected sail issues, allowing Comanche to stretch its lead by eight nautical miles early on.
LawConnect, which had previously clinched line honors last year after edging out Comanche by just 51 seconds, initially led the fleet of 104 boats out of Sydney Harbor. After the race began with cannon blasts signaling the start, the crew of LawConnect dealt with sail issues, causing them to relinquish their advantage.
Notably, this race received considerable attention for featuring the first all-Filipino crew—a group of 15 sailors led by veteran helmsman Ernesto Echauz aboard Centennial 7. Composed of members from the Philippines' national team as well as the navy, they quickly put on impressive performance, sitting mid-fleet around four hours after setting off.
Unfortunately, the prestigious race's glamour was marred by the retirement of reigning overall handicap winner Alive. Just before 4 PM on Thursday, Alive bowed out of the race off Wollongong, New South Wales, due to engine and electrical malfunctions, leaving 103 boats competently racing. Alive had recently undergone repairs after suffering damage to its canard board, meaning they had every intention of competing for the coveted title.
With Alive out of contention, focus shifted back to the remaining competitors as they braved the conditions of the Tasman Sea. Though buoyed by the northeast breeze during the early hours of racing, all eyes were still on how teams would handle the anticipated wind shift expected to impact the Bass Strait overnight, which could provoke strong gusts and showers, especially challenging for smaller yachts.
Experienced sailors participating have learned from past races; the challenge is exacerbated by the harsh weather conditions typical of the Bass Strait. “We have to sail smartly, look after the boat, and care for the crew,” said Comanche co-skipper James Mayo, highlighting the need for vigilance amid fierce competition.
Meanwhile, alongside Comanche maintaining its lead, LawConnect and other competitors strategized to regain ground—though it would not be easy. The famous 'Doldrums' of the race are notorious, with changing weather conditions leading to unpredictable outcomes. The 628 nautical miles (722 miles or 1,160 kilometers) race culminated on the Derwent River, ending at Hobart, Tasmania's capital.
Last year, Comanche had put up quite the fight against LawConnect, narrowly losing the title upon the finish line. With finish times so close to one another, it is no surprise the race record of 1 day, 9 hours, 15 minutes, and 24 seconds set by Comanche remains unbroken since its win back in 2017—a challenge the supermaxis continue to chase.
The camaraderie within the racing community was emphasized by the inclusion of diverse crews, including Centennial 7, symbolizing not only participation but also national pride. Apart from the spectacle of speed on the water, the race nurtures connections across various cultures, fostering inclusivity and sportsmanship.
While Comanche and LawConnect vie for supremacy, the remainder of the race promises excitement and rivalry, echoing stories of passion and commitment from all competitors. Touches of drama swept through with incidents such as Wild Thing 100 nearly capsizing as it maneuvered during the initial tack, exemplifying the unpredictable nature of the sport. Adding another layer to the race, URM Group dealt with its penalty turn after failing to keep clear of nearby boats amid harbor traffic.
Competitors understand well the stakes. The race not only pushes them to their physical limits but calls on the power of teamwork and strategic thinking to endure through challenges. Whether by sailing smartly or adapting to rapidly changing conditions, sailors know survival depends on diligence and preparedness.
Comanche and LawConnect are set to battle fiercely to achieve glory on the tumultuous waters fueled by pride, stakes, and aspirations. Only time will tell whether this Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race will write another compelling chapter for the great event, reinforcing its place as one of the most elite challenges on the maritime calendar.
