Owner Craig Watson named Coopers, a Jeanneau 53, after his generous sponsor. The boat is easily recognised when the big green ‘Coopers’ spinnaker is hoisted. The boat is new to the Hobart, but Watson has spent a lot of time racing her at Hamilton Island, Airlie Beach and SeaLink Magnetic Island race weeks, where he began flotillas from the University of Queensland in 1983. Watson also competed in the 2018 and 2021 Brisbane to Gladstone races, handling the conditions well, winning PHS Modern both years and finishing fifth overall in 2021.