Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race 2023 – Race Start

The 78th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race got off to the usual rousing start today as 103 boats lined up in Sydney Harbour, raring to get to grips with the 628-nautical mile challenge ahead. Everyone on the water, including the traditional throng of thousands of spectators on hundreds of boats, was treated to a rotating succession of sunshine, heavy showers and rumbling thunder. In a legendary contest where nothing can ever be taken for granted, the outlook for the next two days is particularly uncertain with storms, erratic winds and even hail forecast. The ability to understand and adapt to the evolving weather systems will therefore be crucial for all competitors, which range from professional crews on 100-ft maxis to Corinthian sailors and 2-handed teams. Organised by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia in conjunction with the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania, Rolex has been partnering the iconic offshore race since 2002 as part of its near 70-year association with the sport of yachting. Discover more https://on.rolex.com/3NCJULt Rolex has always associated with activities driven by passion, excellence, precision and team spirit. The Swiss watchmaker naturally gravitated towards the elite world of yachting six decades ago and the brand’s enduring partnership now encompasses the most prestigious clubs, races and regattas, as well as towering figures in the sport, including ground-breaking round-the-world yachtsman Sir Francis Chichester and the most successful Olympic sailor o