Battling Bass Strait
The fleet has faced harsh conditions crossing the infamous Bass Strait, with its unforgiving swells and gusting winds. Many boats, including the Volvo 70 Celestial V70 and Wild Thing 100, have navigated these treacherous waters with remarkable skill. As the race progresses, strategic decisions will become critical, especially with the forecasted variable winds along the Tasmanian coastline.
Close contenders
While LawConnect crossed the finish line early this morning, competition remains fierce for IRC Overall honours. Celestial V70, skippered by Sam Haynes of NSW, holds a commanding 4.5-hour lead on corrected time, ahead of Caro (NZ), No Limit, and Whisper. The Corinthian IRC division sees Denali, Happy Wanderer, and Sirene battling for top honours.
The PHS standings highlight Ted Tooher’s Beneteau First 40 Chancellor leading, followed by Charles Parry-Okeden’s Beneteau 40.7 Crystal Cutter 3 and Scott Lovell’s Farr 51 Just Farr Love. Meanwhile, Double-Handed division bragging rights are still hard to call. On DH IRC, the Northshore 38 Inukshuk, led by Robert Large and Stuart Watson, currently holds the top spot on corrected time, with Mistral and Kismet close behind. These crews demonstrate extraordinary seamanship as they tackle the race with minimal crew, a testament to their skill and endurance.
Inspiration amidst adversity
For many sailors, this race is not about winning but finishing. The strength and perseverance displayed by all participants deserve recognition. As Lynne Blair poignantly noted on the Rolex Sydney Hobart Facebook page, “I don’t think it is about winning anymore, just about finishing. All these amazing sailors deserve to be recognised and applauded.”
