Sydney to Hobart Fleet Braces for Wild Weather and Potential Record Challenge

The 79th edition of the iconic race begins Thursday with favorable winds at the start but dangerous conditions forecast in the Bass Strait.

The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is set to begin on Boxing Day, with 105 boats, including four supermaxis, competing in the 628-nautical-mile event.
Initial conditions feature north-easterly winds and sunshine, but forecasts predict gale-force winds, thunderstorms, and a challenging southwesterly change in the Bass Strait by early Friday.
Supermaxi yachts, including race record-holder Comanche and last year’s winner LawConnect, are preparing for a fast start but prioritizing safety due to the risk of severe weather-related damage.
The 2017 race record of one day, 9 hours, 15 minutes, and 24 seconds set by Comanche may be under threat if early favorable conditions hold, though skippers emphasize caution over record-breaking attempts.
Race officials have warned participants to be 'risk aware' given the forecasted conditions, as emergency services may also be stretched by bushfires in New South Wales and Victoria.