This holiday season, the excitement of the 2024 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is set to captivate sailing enthusiasts as it sails off on December 26. This iconic race, now in its 79th year, promises to showcase fierce competition among 104 participating yachts, including last year's champions and some ambitious newcomers.
The race is described as one of the most challenging ocean events globally, crossing 628 nautical miles from Sydney Harbour to Hobart. The anticipated start time is 1 PM AEDT, marked by the firing of the traditional cannon.
Among the contenders is the Newcastle Cruising Yacht Club's entry, Mako, skippered by Greg Busch and navigated by Adrian Kiely. Last year, they claimed the second place in the PHS division, and aim to achieve even greater success this time around.
“We’re all eager to improve on our last result,” said Busch, whose team also includes crew members Adam Manders, Emily Sellens, and Samuel Wood, among others. Mako, originally built for the 1999 Admiral’s Cup, is now based out of Newcastle after being purchased by NCYC CEO Paul O’Rourke.
Another unique story this year features 30-year-old nurse Olivia Gates, racing on the bow of her first Sydney to Hobart aboard the Hanse 505, Ciao Bella.
This year's race may also be marked by unpredictable and severe weather phenomena, potentially challenging even the most skilled sailors. Meteorologists predict favorable start conditions with gusty north-easterly winds for the fleet’s outset. Yet, as they head toward the notorious Bass Strait, the mood is expected to shift dramatically. Forecasts indicate strong-to-gale force winds, thunder, and swells reaching up to four meters (approximately 13 feet).
Christian Beck, skipper of reigning line honours champion LawConnect, commented on the severity of the recent weather forecasts. “These conditions are probably the worst forecast I’ve ever had to go through,” Beck stated. “The odds of boat damage are obviously very high.”
While breaking the race record of one day, nine hours, and 15 minutes set by Comanche remains plausible, achieving this goal seems secondary to ensuring their vessel remains intact during the stormy stretch. Beck's co-skipper James Mayo echoed this sentiment, noting, “Our job is to get there in one piece, get the boat there intact and hopefully get there first.”
Further complicate the challenges, Beck highlighted the risks associated with the size and power of the supermaxis. “Often when you do get breakage on the boat, it sort of multiplies,” he mentioned, emphasizing the need for crew familiarity and teamwork, especially under pressure.
The historical significance of the Sydney to Hobart race is underscored by its roots dating back to 1945 when it began as more of a casual cruise. Now, with more than 100 yachts expected to compete, the event has evolved dramatically, becoming steeped in tradition and competition.
Last year’s race featured one of the closest finishes on record, with just 51 seconds separating LawConnect and Andoo Comanche. Competitors hope to see more thrilling finishes this time around, but safety will remain the priority, as harsh conditions could lead to racers retiring from the event early.
Two-time Hobart winner Craig Smith suggested it’s tricky to predict which boats will fare best under unpredictable conditions, especially with some smaller boats among the favorites for the Tattersall Cup based on their handicap.
“It just depends how they manage the sea state and get out of the blocks,” he claimed, alluding to the strategies teams must employ to handle choppy waters and swift winds effectively.
The Sydney to Hobart race continues to generate enthusiasm beyond just its immediate competitors. Spectators can enjoy the live broadcast through Nine Network and 9Now this year, marking a change from previous broadcasting rights.
The race becomes not only about competition but also about resilience, teamwork, and the spirit of adventure. Despite not offering prize money, the opportunity for glory remains significant, bringing together veterans and newcomers alike, all poised to face the challenges of the sea.
With many notable competitors entered this year, including yacht names like Comanche, Wild Thing 100, and Alive, each team sets sail with its own hopes and stories. The winner of the 2024 race will be determined not just by speed, but by skillful navigation of the often treacherous conditions, making every moment of the race matter.
Ready or not, the 2024 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race promises to be another exhilarating chapter in the storied tradition of this legendary ocean race. And as the start draws nearer, excitement grows not only among those vying for glory but also among the numerous fans around Australia and beyond.
