Clockwork, the Sydney 38 co-owned and skippered by South Australians Mary Ann Harvey and Andrew Lloyd, is set to compete in the 2025 Melbourne to Devonport ‘Rudder Cup’ Yacht Race on October 31. This marks the first participation of Clockwork in this historic race, which is the oldest yacht race in Australia.
After a busy eight-month sailing schedule last year, including major Australian regattas, the duo is excited to be on the start line. Harvey described the Rudder Cup as a bucket list race, highlighting their commitment to racing hard to win.
Clockwork achieved notable success in 2024, winning the Sydney 38 Division of the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race. With hopes of replicating that success, Harvey believes the right conditions could lead to victory in the Rudder Cup. She praises the Sydney 38 as a reliable and high-performing boat, noting its excellent capabilities in various wind conditions.
Clockwork will face competition from two other Sydney 38s from Victoria: Faster Forward and Loch Sloidh 3. Lloyd expressed hopes for a decent breeze during the race, indicating that reaching conditions would favour their performance, though they are prepared to handle challenging winds as well.
Both skippers are known for their camaraderie and commitment to growing the sailing community. They actively support initiatives like the ORCV’s Next Gen program, which offers opportunities for new sailors to gain experience in ocean racing. Harvey has recently been recognised as the 2025 Female Sailor of the Year in South Australia for her efforts in promoting gender inclusivity and leadership in sailing.
As they prepare for the Rudder Cup, both skippers acknowledge the challenges of navigating out of Port Phillip through The Rip, an area known for its tricky conditions. However, they remain optimistic and focused on the race ahead.
The 195 nautical mile race begins at 2:30 PM AEDT off Queenscliff in Port Phillip, with the longstanding record set in 1998 by Prowler at 19 hours, 32 minutes, and 56 seconds. The Rudder Cup is part of the ORCV Offshore Championship and is open to fully crewed yachts and double-handed teams.
For more details and to enter the race, visit: https://www.orcv.org.au/devonport
By Jane Austin/ORCV Media
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