With only 99 days remaining until the start of the 79th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race , this year’s field of competitors is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory. A total of 75 yachts have already registered, ranging from seasoned campaigners to first-time entrants - all gearing up for the 628 nautical-mile challenge. Yachts from all states will descend on Sydney Harbour.

At this stage: 40 are from New South Wales 11 from Victoria 8 from Tasmania 7 from Queensland 3 from South Australia, and 2 from Western Australia As the countdown continues and entries remain open until Friday, 25 October, more competitors are expected to join, eager to test themselves against the elements in one of the world’s most prestigious ocean races. Christian Beck after winning Line Honours in the 2023 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race Photo: Salty Dingo Maxis and Mini-Maxis The race will once again see the fierce rivalry between some of the largest and fastest yachts in the world, with a strong fleet of Maxis and Mini-Maxis already confirmed. Among the headline entries are several 100-foot giants, each with their sights set on the coveted Line Honours title.

These ocean racing powerhouses will be racing not just against the weather, but also against each other, as they push their boats to the limit in pursuit of the fastest time to Hobart. Last year’s Line Honours winner, LawConnect, is once again firmly focused on defending its title, while Comanche aims to reaffirm its do.