Master Lock Comanche the favourite, weather forecast, start time, results, how to watch
Palm Beach XI is making groundbreaking improvements aimed at making the most successful yacht in history, sailing from Sydney to Hobart, better than ever.
But his closest rival remains skeptical that the 30-metre supermaxi, formerly Wild Oats XI, is actually in contention for bench honors in its long-awaited Hobart comeback.
The champion yacht was sold by her long-time owners, the Oatley family, and has been fully rebranded and refurbished since the last race with Hobart in 2022.
Captain Mark Richards (left) aboard the Palm Beach XI (formerly Wild Oats XI) sailed the refurbished ship only three times.Credit: Louise Kennerley
New owner Mark Richards, who captained the Wild Oats
But sweeping changes have curtailed the Palm Beach XI’s preparations for the 80th running of the iconic yacht race, which starts today.
As of Christmas Day, the crew had only traveled together three times; one of which was after the official race briefing on Christmas Eve.
“We spent a lot of time on the boat, but he was in the cabin,” Richards joked.
The massive upgrade project caused the crew to postpone the yacht’s christening earlier this month; It hit water for the first time on December 10.
2022 Sydney to Hobart Wild Oats XI. Credit: Getty Images
Palm Beach XI also opted not to install the revolutionary c-foils it plans to transport to Hobart to further reduce ocean drag.
“We’re not quite ready, which is a real shame,” Richards said.
Line captain Matt Allen, who honored heavyweight Master Lock Comanche, was doubtful that the Palm Beach XI could challenge the line honour.
“You don’t delete them, but that’s probably not their ideal prognosis.”
AAP
