Challenge

Having contested the 2011 Hobart on the Sydney 38 Mille Sabords, Chris Mrakas arrived at the 2015 Hobart a new class owner, after purchasing the late Lou Abrahams’ Challenge, and finished 19^th overall. They are back for Mrakas’ second Sydney Hobart and the team of amateur local and international crew, who embody the spirit of Hobart grass roots sailors, will be working hard to better last year’s result. Among them are Luis Brito and Frederico Melo, Portugese Olympic and Extreme sailors who bolster the strength of Challenge.

Challenge performs best uphill in tough conditions and does really well when weather suits the smaller boats. She was the most successful Sydney 38 in Australia, the one that came closest to winning the Hobart; third overall and a Division D win in 2006. At 80, 2007 was Abrahams final Hobart with this past Australian and Victorian champion. Challenge’s base remains Sandringham Yacht Club, where Lou was a past commodore and Life Member. 

Competitor Details