Langman’s quest for victory
The 80th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race has notched up its 100th entry, with Sean Langman’s GP42 Back 2 Black securing the milestone spot.
For Langman, managing director of the Noakes Group and a veteran of 33 Hobarts, this campaign is deeply personal. Despite decades of racing on everything from maxis to historic restorations, he has never claimed the Tattersall Cup.
“The wonderful thing about ocean racing is everyone has an opportunity, from maxis down to Maluka [a 9.5m Huon pine gaffer],” Langman said. “But I do feel this is the boat.”
From forgotten racer to offshore machine
The GP42 was originally discovered by Langman in a UK shed, far from ocean-ready. He saw potential and, after a six-month rebuild, Back 2 Black emerged as a hardened offshore racer.
Her transformation was timed for the Admiral’s Cup and the 100th Rolex Fastnet Race earlier this year, where she placed eighth in class. “After that event I went, well what’s next?” Langman explained. “This boat has more to prove.”
Naming the yacht Back 2 Black is a nod to the late Amy Winehouse, whose 2006 hit of the same name struck a chord with Langman.
Crew of friends and family
Langman’s campaign is built on long-standing bonds. Many of the Back 2 Black crew are drawn from his earlier Moneypenny programme, and most balance sailing with full-time jobs on shore.
“I’m really looking forward to racing with old mates,” Langman said. “It makes the campaign that much more special.”
Path to the start line
Currently en route to Sydney by ship — alongside fellow entry SHK Scallywag — Back 2 Black will undergo final prep, including waterproofing work and tweaks to improve her IRC rating.
The crew will sharpen their teamwork in the Cabbage Tree Island Race on 5 December, using the event to test themselves against Australia’s top 40-footers.
RORC Admiral’s Cup 2025
Cowes
Photo: James Tomlinson
Langman came closest to overall glory in 2023 when Moneypenny placed third. Now, as the 80th edition of the Hobart looms, he’s determined to make this his year.
“This will be my 34th race and it feels exactly the same as the first time,” he said. “I get the same butterflies as when I was a kid. To win the Rolex Sydney Hobart is still a life-long dream.”
