Are we close enough?
Scenes from this year’s SOLAS Big Boat Challenge — a two-lap sprint around Sydney Harbour where the giants of the upcoming Rolex Sydney to Hobart race come out to strut their stuff, unveil new toys, and flex among the best. Hosted by the CYCA, this event is the perfect litmus test for who might claim line honours in Hobart.
Drifting at the top mark
Comanche and Infotrack were the heavyweights of this year’s fleet, leading the charge to the top mark until the wind literally vanished, allowing the mini maxis to reel in the 100-footers off Manly. For a few surreal minutes, everyone drifted — a full reset — but that calm didn’t last. Once the nor’easter filled back in, the fleet powered around the harbour one more time toward the Opera House finish line.
Down the harbour, Infotrack and Comanche traded blows in a classic cat-and-mouse duel, with Scallywag and Wild Thing not far behind. The close-quarters racing in this event creates a spectacular sight — and an equally tough challenge to capture.
The mêlée of spectator and media boats adds even more chaos, their wakes churning the harbour into a confused sea state. Within that battlefield, shooting the action from my modest photo boat was no small feat. Thanks to some clever driving by my son, Hugo, we managed to get up close and personal — perhaps a little too close at times.
The photos tell the story.
Comanche - winner on the day.
RP66 Mini Maxi Moneypenny- always pushing above her weight.
Majestic mid fleet yachts
In contention
