Big 2019 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race fleet builds; one week until close of entries
by Di Pearson, RSHYR media 18 Oct 2019 05:32 BST
26 December 2019
Bruce Taylor's Chutzpah, multiple divisional podium finisher, will once again be one to watch © Rolex / Studio Borlenghi
A total of 157 entries have been received one week out from close of entries for the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race - and, in addition to a smattering of international entrants, nearly half the field is made up of yachts representing Australian states outside of New South Wales.
Queensland has emerged as the frontrunner with 22 boats, while Victoria (21) and Tasmania (14) are closing in. There are currently seven entrants from Western Australia.
Chutzpah is the standout Victorian entry. Owner Bruce Taylor has stood the test of time, with 38 Sydney Hobarts behind him, the first four as crew for others. Since, the yachtsman has skippered half-a-dozen boats he named Chutzpah, and all have delivered outstanding results.
From 1987 through to the 2018 race, Taylor has scored eight top-five overall places, inclusive of a trio of second places. He has only missed a divisional placing four times, but the overall win persists in eluding the Melbournian. Hopes are that his favourite Chutzpah, a Caprice 40, will do the job.
Chutzpah last year won the Noakes Sydney Gold Coast Yacht Race. "Winning is important, but sailing well is just as important," Taylor insists. "It gave us satisfaction to beat the TP52s and others."
CYCA Commodore Paul Billingham said the 75th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is shaping up to be an incredible event.
"To have more than 150 boats entered already in the 2019 Rolex Sydney Hobart is fantastic - a great result," Billingham said.
"There is still a week to go until entries close on 25 October, so if you're considering entering the race and haven't yet done so do it now!
"We can't wait to celebrate with everyone and look forward to an outstanding celebration marking our 75th race to Hobart."
Entry for the 75th Sydney Hobart closes on Friday 25 October at 1700 hours.
To enter and for all information visit www.rolexsydneyhobart.com