Sawt Falasteen - Master Lock Comanche wins Sydney-Hobart ocean race for fifth time

It was the fifth line honours victory in the 628-nautical-mile bluewater classic for the 100-foot supermaxi Comanche crew, which was skippered by Matt Allen and James Mayo.

The crew crossed the finish line on the River Derwent in Tasmania's capital Hobart in two days, five hours, three minutes and 36 seconds, greeted by beaming sunshine and hundreds of supporters.

Comanche holds the race record set in its 2017 victory when finishing in one day, nine hours, 15 minutes and 24 seconds. Comanche also won line honours in 2015, 2019 and 2022.

Allen and Mayo navigated a tricky final day as the wind changed to a light north-easterly, the crew having earlier battled strong southerly winds over the first 24 hours after leaving Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day.

Early on Sunday SHK Scallywag 100 overtook Comanche and LawConnect to lead for several hours working down Tasmania's east coast, the three yachts within one mile of each other.

LawConnect, seeking a third-straight line honours title under skipper Christian Beck, suffered a tear to its sail during the second night.

Beck said he considered retiring as significant repairs were needed that cost LawConnect the chance of a hat-trick.

As the lead trio neared Tasman Island and rounded for home Comanche soared clear, building a nine nautical mile lead as they moved up the Derwent.

Allen and Mayo had to retire during the 2024 edition of the race due to significant mainsail damage.

This year's race saw initial southerly winds battering the 128-strong fleet and causing heavy seas.

More than a quarter of the field had retired from the race by Sunday morning either with boat damage or because their crews were suffering from severe sea sickness.

B.Mahmoud--SF-PST