The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, home of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, remains hopeful the ‘Great Race’ will return in 2021.
With 100 days until the start of the race, Noel Cornish AM, CYCA Commodore, provided an update on the Club’s plans amidst ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, including border closures.
Commodore Cornish has confirmed the CYCA is well prepared to host a COVID-Safe race if given the green light by the NSW and Tasmanian State Governments.
More than 70 boats have already entered the 2021 race.
“We were so disappointed to have to cancel the 2020 race due to the COVID-19 outbreak,” said Commodore Cornish.
“Of course, we are once again working through a number of challenges as we prepare for this year’s race. We acknowledge that some decisions will be out of our control, but we remain hopeful that the race will go ahead as planned on Boxing Day.
“We are in ongoing discussions with the NSW and Tasmanian State Governments to keep abreast of changes to policy.
“The CYCA is focusing on what IS in our control. An extensive COVID-safe plan is already in place and is being regularly adapted to comply with the latest COVID-19 restrictions.
“We are also encouraging competitors to consider their vaccination status, in the event this is a condition required by either State Government.”
The CYCA hopes to see the return of racing in October, subject to the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions by the NSW Government.
Given the Tasmanian border is currently closed to NSW residents, the Club is looking at options to modify the Rolex Sydney Hobart race course if it should become necessary.
“Contingency planning is underway and we are considering an alternative race if the border to Tasmania remains closed,” Commodore Cornish added.
“More information will be available over the coming months, but our priority will always be to preserve the route that has made the Rolex Sydney Hobart the pinnacle of offshore sailing over the last 77 years.
“I would like to thank our race sponsor, Rolex, all CYCA partners and competitors for their support and understanding as we navigate these challenges together.”
Entries for the 2021 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race close on Friday 29 October 2021.
For more information, see: www.rolexsydneyhobart.com
