According to reports, Jim Cooney, the captain of Comanche, predicts a fast yacht race from Sydney to Hobart. He anticipates that his super maxi yacht may set a new record for the 100-foot run for honours, a record that has stood since last year.
The Meteorology Bureau has forecasted light winds for the start of the race on December 26 in Sydney Harbour, with winds picking up to northeasterly gusts of up to 35 knots later in the day. The 630-nautical-mile race will see around 86 yachts competing along Australia’s southeastern coast, crossing Bass Strait and finishing in Hobart, the capital of Tasmania.
Cooney believes the organizers are hoping for a fast race, but he is skeptical about breaking the record as the winds are not expected to be as strong as last year. He suggests that unless there is a significant change, a record pace may not be achievable.
Comanche currently holds the race record of one day, nine hours, fifteen minutes, and twenty-four seconds, winning under controversial circumstances last year. Wild Oats XI, a super maxi with nine previous wins, was initially declared the winner but later stripped of the title due to a protest.
Comanche lodged a protest after a near-collision with Wild Oats XI as the boats left Sydney Harbour. An international jury imposed a one-hour penalty on Wild Oats XI, overturning their victory margin of around 30 minutes ahead of Comanche.
