UPDATE: Master Lock Comanche has officially claimed line honours in the prestigious Sydney to Hobart yacht race for the fifth time, triumphing over fierce competition from SHK Scallywag 100 and defending champion LawConnect. The supermaxi crossed the finish line near Constitution Dock in Hobart shortly after 6 PM on December 31, 2023, completing the grueling race in a time of two days, five hours, three minutes, and 36 seconds.
This victory marks a significant comeback for skippers Matt Allen and James Mayo, who faced challenges last year when their race ended prematurely due to a damaged mainsail. Comanche’s win is especially noteworthy as it comes during the 80th running of the Sydney to Hobart, and it is the first title for the team since 2022.
Earlier today, the race saw Comanche briefly lose the lead before swiftly regaining it during a strong passage up the Derwent River. The team extended their advantage, showcasing their resilience and strategy in challenging conditions.
In a dramatic turn of events, LawConnect managed to repair a broken mainsheet and halyard during the race, allowing them to pursue Comanche closely. They crossed the finish line in second place around 7 PM, demonstrating their tenacity despite the technical setbacks.
Not far behind, SHK Scallywag, which had taken the lead earlier in the race, secured a commendable third place. The competition was fierce, with a starting fleet of 128 yachts, but as of this afternoon, 33 yachts had retired from the race. Notably, two crew members suffered broken ribs, one each from Kraken 42S and Mistral, leading to their retirement and return to port.
The race began under challenging conditions, with LawConnect initially leading the fleet out of Sydney Harbour in pursuit of a third consecutive line honours victory. The overnight conditions on Friday were rough, but significantly less dangerous than last year’s storms.
In a moment of solidarity, the fleet paid tribute to the victims of the December 14 terror attack near Bondi Beach as they sailed past the area early in the race.
As the race concludes, the record set by LDV Comanche in 2017—of one day, nine hours, 15 minutes, and 24 seconds—remains unchallenged, with only strong downwind conditions posing a potential threat to that time in future races.
The excitement and resilience displayed throughout this year’s Sydney to Hobart yacht race will surely resonate with sailing fans worldwide. Stay tuned for further updates on the race and its implications for future competitions.
