New Zealand entry Vixen Racing retired from the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race after a crew injury sustained in heavy offshore conditions, with skipper Sharon Ferris-Choat making the call with safety as the clear priority.

New Zealand flagged entry Vixen Racing retired from the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race at 5:20pm AEDT on Saturday, 27 December, when the boat was 48 nautical miles east of Montague Island. The decision followed a crew injury sustained during heavy offshore conditions.

Vixen Racing retires from Sydney Hobart after crew injury

Crew member Deb Steele, a two time Sydney to Hobart participant, suffered fractured ribs after a heavy impact earlier in the race. The incident occurred as Vixen was navigating steep seas, with the crew under sustained pressure and little relief in the conditions.

Despite the team’s desire to continue, the call was made with safety as the clear priority.

Vixen Racing entered this year’s Hobart with a well prepared and committed crew. The decision to retire reflects sound seamanship in a race that has again proven unforgiving.