The 2024 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is set to make waves as it embarks on its 79th edition this Boxing Day, featuring 108 yachts competing over 600 nautical miles from Sydney to Hobart. This year, Nine will broadcast the race live, marking the first time the iconic event is featured on this channel.
The excitement will radiate from North Head, where the starting cannon will fire at 1:00 PM AEDT, launching yachts including the defending champion Law Connect, and powerful contenders like Master Lock Comanche, known for narrowly missing out on victory last year. The race promises high stakes and fierce competition.
Hosting the coverage for Nine will be Gordon Bray, with commentary from former Olympic sailor Lisa Darmanin and seasoned races veteran Peter Shipway, ensuring viewers receive insights and updates throughout the event. The broadcasters are also planning regular updates and features linking viewers back to the harbor with live coverage of the finish line festivities.
Among the impressive fleet is the Maritimo yacht brand, entering two vessels, with one aiming to create history by fulfilling exceptional design and performance. This premium luxury boat manufacturer from the Gold Coast showcases the evolution of yachting entries, blending craftsmanship with competitive spirit.
Anyone who has participated knows the importance of sustenance at sea. Many crews have shifted from traditional military-style meals to more creative culinary experiences, integrating morale-boosting dishes prepared by loved ones. Participants are enriching their voyages with meals ranging from bacon and egg rolls to Vietnamese spring rolls, showcasing how important food has become for crew morale.
“I’ve got a pie warmer on board so we have hot pies, which is quite a treat,” said Anthony Johnston, co-owner of the URM Group yacht, highlighting the comfort food trend afloat. “We do bacon and egg rolls... we have minimum of the dried stuff.” The URM crew is focused on maintaining warmth and energy with satisfying meals as they anticipate rough weather conditions expected during the race.
For other crews, such as the team aboard Active Again, the kitchen is also about family connections. They swear by the pineapple fruitcake prepared by skipper Stephanie Kerin's mother, which the crew believes has brought them good luck through their previous races. “We're powered by Stephanie's mum's fruitcake,” stated Kerin's husband, contributing to the narrative of how personal relationships can make culinary delights memorable on the high seas.
This year's race is also notable for the participation of newbie sailors like Ron Epstein, who is venturing out with his new boat, Bacchanal. Having previously only engaged in informal sailing, he is eager to test his new yacht against seasoned competitors. Once dedicated to casual racing, Epstein is now steadfastly preparing for what he calls the “premier event” for amateur sailors, providing excitement and prestige on his first entry.
“It’s not about just racing for the glory; it’s about the sheer joy of sailing and exploration,” Epstein noted. His vessel has already proven itself as highly competitive, having won its division and placed high overall early during the competitive season.
The blend of new talents and seasoned racers lends diversity to the competition, exemplified by Tommy Dickens of Another Chapter. Dickens seized the opportunity to participate by joining his father, James, creating a rare and rewarding opportunity for shared experience. “It’s pretty iconic,” he remarked, as both prepare to witness Sydney's beauty from the water against the backdrop of the Sydney Harbor Bridge and Opera House.
Meanwhile, veteran sailors bring their expertise to the race, such as Adrian Stead and his crew on the New Zealand yacht Caro, who are ready for the challenges of the course, having honed their skills through various preparatory races. The anticipation of challenging conditions and tight competition promises to keep spectators and participants alike on the edge of their seats.
With the race quickly approaching, the excitement is palpable and buoyed by the rich traditions and camaraderie developed over decades. This unique blend of family, friendship, and fierce competition remains the hallmark of the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, making it more than just another sailing competition.
