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Wild Thing 100 Withdraws from 80th Sydney to Hobart Race

12/27/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The 80th Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race saw Wild Thing 100 retire due to rigging damage on December 27, 2024, with it returning to Sydney.
Master Lock Comanche led LawConnect, facing mainsheet issues but staying in contention.
By 8:30 AM, 122 boats remained, with Awen and Trouble & Strife retiring due to mechanical failures.
Conditions were rough but not as severe as previous year, when two sailors died in storms.

History

Historical Context

The 1998 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race was marked by tragedy when a severe storm struck on December 27, resulting in six fatalities and the sinking of five yachts. This disaster prompted significant safety reforms in maritime practices, influencing future races. The event remains a stark reminder of the risks in ocean racing, impacting competitors like Wild Thing 100 and Master Lock Comanche today.

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Story summary

The 80th Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race saw Wild Thing 100 retire due to rigging damage on December 27, 2024, with it returning to Sydney.
Master Lock Comanche led LawConnect, facing mainsheet issues but staying in contention.
By 8:30 AM, 122 boats remained, with Awen and Trouble & Strife retiring due to mechanical failures.
Conditions were rough but not as severe as previous year, when two sailors died in storms.

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