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The Weather: The Great Equaliser

Home About The Race The Weather The Great Equaliser

What makes the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race truly formidable is its unpredictability.

Tasman Island.
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MINNIE, Sail no: 424, Owner: Michael Bell, Design: Jones 42, Country: AUS

Competitors can face anything from mirror-like calms to relentless gales within the span of a day. Success demands constant vigilance, sharp tactical thinking and the ability to adapt under pressure.

The notorious Bass Strait lies at the heart of the challenge,  shallow waters meet strong winds and powerful currents, often whipping up steep, confused seas that test even the most seasoned crews.

As the fleet nears Tasmania, rapidly changing winds and weather systems rolling in from the Southern Ocean can transform the race in moments.

Each year, the weather becomes the great equaliser. Wind direction and strength dictate sail choice, speed, and strategy, with every yacht, from high-tech maxis to smaller Corinthian entries, responding differently to the conditions.

Ultimately, it is the skies and seas that help decide who claims victory in The Great Race South.

The Recap for each race contains a summary of the weather experienced by the fleet, and for the most recent years a report by the navigator of the overall winner on their race, including details of the weather they experienced.  The Recap for the 2024 race (here) contains a report by Alex Nolan, navigator of the Overall Winner Celestial V70.