… December 26th, is also the start of the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Race 2013. This race marks the 68th anniversary for the event; continuing the tradition of racing from Australia’s Port Jackson/Sydney Harbour, south across the Bass Strait, along the east coast of the historic island of Tasmania and into Hobart.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KhMjlcE_UxQ&w=420&h=315]
This epic event has earned its reputation as being one of the worlds most dangerous regattas. This year, the ever more famous “Clipper-Around-the-World-Race” added to the entries by signing up their brand new fleet of Clipper 70’s, all 12 of them.
[youtube=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GyGDpvBzbZQ&w=560&h=315]
The big guns have just over 200 NM left to the finish of the 630 NM race course. Currently the “Line Honours” lead was changed overnight. Wild Oats XI (pictured below) overtaken Perpetual Loyal (pictured left), who seemed to have had the lead for most of the first half of the race.
The all new Beau Geste (pictured below) has not been seen a-top the leader board since the first buoy at the start. The current overall and IRC Div.3 handicap leader is a Beneteau First 40, Brannew.
There is still plenty of racing action to be had. As the tired teams turn up the Derwent River for the last 40 NM of the race, it is expected that the maze of currents and lake effect sailing will push the teams to their limits. These handicap and line honours positions are constantly changing so be sure to keep up to date with the latest action at http://rolexsydneyhobart.com/.