Third across the line was Jeff Otter’s Icefire followed some 47 minutes later by Laurie Ford’s Varta Spirit of Downunder. Next across the line was Richard McGarvie’s Addiction and David Phillip’s Hasta La Vista. Hasta La Vista was making gains on the two leaders last night in the heavy weather off Southern Tasmania when they shredded their mainsail. The next twelve hours of sailing were under a trysail, foiling any hopes of a top three finish. They did however match tacks with Elektra pipping them on the line by 2 seconds.
Bill Morgan’s Tevake came across next. A Crewed Interest skippered by Rookie skipper Eddie Ragauskas came in at 13:52:30 to provisionally take out all three handicap positions.
At least four of the original starters are expected to spend New Year at sea. Afrayed Knot, Apollonius, Joint Venture and Coogans Stores.
Race management will be water side tonight for the evening arrivals but particularly for the arrival of Robin Hewitt in his yacht Yoko. Hewitt will be completing his 25th Melbourne to Hobart race, not only raced consecutively but all in the same boat.
This race continues to present a unique challenge to its competitors, those who achieve the goal of reaching Hobart wear the yellow Westcoaster cap with pride.
