UPDATE: The annual Sydney to Hobart sailing race just took a heartwarming turn as the small coastal town of Eden celebrates its cherished “loser’s prize.” This unique trophy, awarded to the first yacht crew to retire and reach Eden, has provided a much-needed boost of joy to crews facing disappointment in the fierce race.
Since the early 1990s, the Twofold Bay Yacht Club has facilitated this lighthearted tradition. Vice-commodore Robyn Malcolm confirmed that this year’s trophy was presented to the crew of the luxury superyacht Maritimo 100, who arrived on December 28 after grappling with significant mechanical issues. “They came in to try to fix some problems with its hydraulics and electronics systems,” Ms. Malcolm stated, highlighting the challenges faced by such a large vessel.
Upon reaching Eden, the crew realized the problems were more extensive than anticipated and opted to call it quits. “One of them asked me, ‘does this mean we get the trophy?’” Ms. Malcolm recounted, adding a note of humor to the situation. “Really, the last thing they need is a plastic trophy, but it’s a fun way to lighten the mood.”
Following Maritimo 100, the URM Group yacht arrived around 10:30 PM, with other vessels slowly trickling in throughout the night and into Monday morning. The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia has confirmed additional retirements, including Wots Next, V5, Kraken 42S, Ambition, Silver Fern, and Minerva.
The community of Eden rolled out a warm welcome for the crews, even as temperatures dropped significantly due to the southerly winds. Ms. Malcolm shared the challenges of accommodating the incoming crews, stating, “I was down there until 3 AM trying to organize places for them to go.” Remarkably, local residents opened their homes, ensuring that the sailors had a place to rest. “I know the crews were very, very grateful,” she added.
The emotional impact of this tradition cannot be overstated. “It’s all about changing the mood a little,” Ms. Malcolm emphasized. With some prestigious sailors’ names etched on the perpetual trophy, the event serves as a light-hearted reminder of the spirit of camaraderie within the sailing community.
In a poignant moment, Ms. Malcolm reflected on past winners of the Eden trophy, recalling the joy of handing it to her son in 2019 when his crew aboard Minerva was the first to retire. This year, several crew members from Minerva returned, along with new faces, including international sailors who traveled specifically for the race.
As the Sydney to Hobart race continues, all eyes will be on the crews still competing, but Eden’s refreshing approach to retirement offers a unique blend of competitive spirit and community support. This tradition not only brings smiles to disappointed sailors but also strengthens the bonds within the sailing community.
Stay tuned for more updates as the Sydney to Hobart race unfolds, and watch for more crews to arrive in Eden seeking solace and camaraderie in this coastal haven.
