Clipper fleet takes on 2015 Sydney Hobart26 Oct 2015Clipper Race fleet and Sir Robin Knox-Johnston to return in Rolex Sydney Hobart Race 2015CLIPPER RACE: Sir Robin Knox-Johnson and the international Clipper Race fleet will compete in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race (RSHYR) this December.Sir Robin is the founder of the world’s longest ocean race and the first man to sail solo, nonstop, around the world in 1968/9. He will race one of two Clipper 68 yachts that are taking part.The 76 year old said: “There is a real buzz amongst our Clipper Race crew about racing with the world’s best sailors again in one of the most famous offshore races. The crew will have sailed half way around the world to participate and will be excited to pit themselves against the best competitors in the sport.”The event will bring together sailors from 26 different countries. The fleet will arrive into Sydney around 11 December on the all Australian leg and will be half way into the race after having departed London on 30 August.John Cameron, the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CTCA) Commodore, added: “This year the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is shaping up to be a spectacular, our 71st race will be an event to watch.”“Added to the mix we have, for the second time, the Clipper Race yachts. They will bring an additional 14 boats to our race, with the added character that only Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and his yachts and crews can bring as part of their round the world race. We look forward to welcoming them back.” he ended.Other competitors include Wendy Tuck, the first Australian female skipper in the history of the Clipper Race. While skippers Peter Thornton and Huw Fernie, from Great Britain and Seattle respectively, will compete in their second Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race (RSHYR).

via Boating Business – Clipper fleet takes on 2015 Sydney Hobart.