Tasmanian entrants AdvantEdge and Just Farr Love will represent their home state in this year’s Melbourne to Devonport ‘Rudder Cup’ Yacht Race.
Despite being outnumbered on the start line by Victorian entries, the Tasmanian teams possess extensive ocean racing experience and youthful enthusiasm, positioning themselves as strong contenders in this challenging race across Bass Strait.
AdvantEdge, an Inglis 47 Australian designed racing keelboat, is skippered by Andrew Jones from Port Sorell, sailing primarily from the Port Dalrymple Yacht Club at Beauty Point. The team is currently racing against the clock to repair a torn mainsail, a casualty from the recent Hobart Brewing Company Channel Race, which featured winds up to 38 knots and saw several boats retire.
Jones has high praise for his crew, comprised of young dinghy sailors who are dedicated to preparing the boat for the season. They aim to improve upon their previous fourth-place finish among monohulls in the 2024 event. “We are excited to be doing the Rudder Cup again, it’s another good hit out for us,” Jones stated. He emphasised the importance of sailing in their home waters and the experience gained from previous races.
Doyle Sails Tasmania’s Nick Dineen has joined AdvantEdge for this race, bringing valuable experience and sail trimming expertise. Jones highlighted the tactical challenges of the Rudder Cup, considering it more than just a sprint, as the conditions can greatly influence navigation strategies.
Onboard are also navigator Nick Smart, Brent McKay, James McIndoe, Andrew’s son Josh Jones, and Michael Smart. Jones aims to compete fiercely against notable rivals such as Scarlet Runner and Chutzpah, both of which have experienced skippers at the helm.
Just Farr Love, a 51-foot Bruce Farr designed fast cruiser, is skippered by Scott Lovell, who has a deep connection to Tasmania’s northern waters. Although newer to offshore racing, Just Farr Love has proven performance, winning overall in last year’s Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race, and Lovell is eager to add the Rudder Cup to their resume.
Lovell and his crew are determined to overcome last year’s challenges, which forced them to withdraw before the race started due to mechanical issues. This year, they are committed to not letting the race defeat them. Just Farr Love is expected to perform well in heavier conditions and is crewed by seasoned sailors who have recently returned from retirement to compete again.
“We need a decent bit of breeze to get going, and if we can just get into that sweet spot and find our rhythm, we should go along quite nicely,” said Lovell, who is realistic about their chances but remains optimistic about the race outcome.
The 195 nautical mile Melbourne to Devonport race is part of the ORCV Offshore Championship and allows yachts to compete fully crewed, “autohelm plus 4,” or double-handed. Nearly 30 boats have registered for the 2025 Rudder Cup, Australia’s oldest ocean race, commencing at 2:30 pm on Friday, the 31st of October 2025. Entrants hail from Victoria, Tasmania, and South Australia.
For more information on the race, visit: https://www.orcv.org.au/devonport
#MelbourneToDevonport #RudderCup2025 #OceanRacing #TasmanianYachts
More Offshore Sailing stories: Click here
