The skippers of the Sydney to Hobart fleet are bracing for a punishing opening night, with forecasts predicting a strong southerly that could lead to boat damage, injuries, and early retirements in the iconic race's 80th edition.
Challenging Forecast for Boxing Day Start
The final weather briefing on Friday confirmed the 129-boat fleet will face a robust southerly wind moving down the New South Wales coast, persisting through the night after the Boxing Day start. Crews are set for a cloudy, potentially wet departure from Sydney Harbour, followed by a cold and bumpy first night at sea. The upwind conditions are expected to place significant stress on both gear and sailors.
While the conditions are not anticipated to be as deadly as the 2024 race, which tragically claimed the lives of two sailors, the warning from experienced competitors is clear. Sam Haynes, skipper of Celestial V70 and Commodore of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA), stated he believes retirements are likely.
"It's tough on boats in the early part of this race," Haynes explained. "The crash bang, the waves, the gear itself is going to be under stress... Also it's hard on crews: sea sickness and potentially some injuries. They can put boats out. I think there will be some retirements in these conditions."
Supermaxi Contenders Prepare for Gruelling Race
Among the leading contenders for line honours are the 100-foot supermaxis: Master Lock Comanche, LawConnect, and SHK Scallywag 100. Aboard Comanche, co-skipper James Mayo emphasised the importance of crew management over the long haul to Hobart.
"If you're not on watch and you've got an opportunity to get a break, over two days [on the water] is a long time," Mayo said. "It's very important that you get rest because the race starts again once you get towards the Derwent."
LawConnect, the reigning line honours winner for the past two years, is considered well-suited to rough seas. However, owner and skipper Christian Beck modestly downplayed his boat's chances of a historic third consecutive victory.
"It's a bit like [F1 driver] Max Verstappen likes it when it's raining, we like it when it's very rough," Beck said. "This forecast is a little bit rough but it's probably not rough enough to make it that likely that we'll win, unfortunately."
Fleet-Wide Tribute for Bondi Attack Victims
In a poignant moment ahead of the race, the CYCA reported a moving response to its call for a tribute to the victims of the Bondi terror attack. After initially asking 15 member boats to scatter rose petals as they passed Bondi Beach, the club found the entire fleet eager to participate. Extra rose petals were made available at the final briefing for crews to take on board.
The conditions are forecast to ease by Sunday as the leading supermaxis approach the finish line at Hobart's Constitution Dock. For now, the focus remains on surviving a demanding and potentially costly first night at sea.
