yacht race 2023

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Sydney to Hobart yacht race: LawConnect wins Sydney to Hobart line honours after two-way river battle

Topic: Sailing

In a finish for the ages, LawConnect has sensationally overtaken Andoo Comanche in the final moments to snatch line honours in the 2023 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

Andoo Comanche held the lead a lot more comfortably when rounding the Tasman Peninsula and entering the River Derwent for the final sprint, but LawConnect started to rapidly gain on them.

LawConnect and Andoo Comanche racing to the finish line. ( ABC News: Maren Preuss )

The two crews could wave to each other, if they wanted to. ( ABC News: Maren Preuss )

The speedier LawConnect closed several nautical miles between them along the river until they were neck and neck to a nail-biting finish. 

LawConnect's finish time in the end was 1 day, 19 hours, 3 minutes and 58 seconds. Andoo Comanche's was just 51 seconds behind.

If you're new to the Sydney to Hobart race, we've got a shortcut guide at the bottom of the story. Tap the link below to get the gist of the race: Explained: Common Sydney to Hobart yacht race questions 

The LawConnect crew celebrate their win. ( ABC News: Maren Preuss )

LawConnect owner Christian Beck described their dramatic win as a dream come true.

"I can't believe that result. Honestly, it's a dream come true," he said.

"I never thought it was possible, actually."

Despite trailing by a significant margin as they passed the Iron Pot on the final approach, LawConnect had the advantage of being able to watch Andoo Comanche to see where the slow spots were.

LawConnect entered with a protest flag flying, after being on standby for about 30 minutes during the race due to concerns Andoo Comanche was in distress, but a formal protest was not lodged.

There was also some interference from a spectator boat in the final moments, with a catamaran passing close to Andoo Comanche and the crew being seen yelling and gesturing.

Tasmania Police said this afternoon action would be taken against a 57-year-old man for "allegedly breaching" marine and safety regulations.

"The man was skippering a private vessel when it reportedly encroached into the exclusion zone set by Marine and Safety Tasmania," it said in a statement. 

The offence carries a fine of up to $3,900.

Sailing master Tony Mutter said spectator boats were something the competitors had to deal with.

"It's pretty fair that everyone had troubles with the spectator boats. That's part of it when it's so busy," he said.

Andoo Comanche skipper John Winning Jr said they only had themselves to blame for the last-minute loss.

LawConnect is racing to the Sydney to Hobart finish line. ( ABC News: Megan Whitfield )

"We should have been miles ahead of them with our boat," he said.

"The conditions suited us, I think they just outsailed us."

First local boat home

URM Group has claimed third place line honours, crossing the finish line at 3:07pm to record a race time of 2 days, 2 hours, 7 minutes and 19 seconds.

The first Tasmanian yacht to finish, Alive, crossed the line almost 12 minutes later.

Alive is currently in first place to win overall handicap honours.

Four yachts have now docked at Kings Pier, with Moneypenny and Wild Thing 100 expected to be the next to arrive.

Live Moment

Join us for the finish of the 2023 Sydney to Hobart yacht race.

Possible problem?

In the final moments, a catamaran appeared to cut in front of Andoo Comanche as the boat turned into the finish.

Eyewitness accounts say crew on Comanche were yelling at the catamaran to move as they tried to turn.

Could this make for an official race protest? We'll have to see.

After leading all the way into the River Derwent, Andoo Comanche won't make it back-to-back Line Honours wins. LawConnect snatched it away from them at the last moment!

How incredible. These boats set off together three days ago and it came down to mere seconds to the finish.

Andoo Comanche was in the lead when it approached the Tasman Peninsula this morning. ( Supplied: Andrea Francolini )

It has been a testing 78th edition of the Sydney to Hobart, with a man overboard, stormy seas, damaged yachts and rapid wind changes.

Eleven boats have retired, including race favourite SHK Scallywag, which broke its bow sprit on the first day.

The skipper of two-handed Rum Rebellion, Shane Connelly, was sent overboard at 6pm on Boxing Day after encountering rapid wind changes off the coast between Cronulla and Wollongong.

Two-handed Currawong also retired, after facing various issues in rough conditions off New South Wales.

Owner Kathy Veel said they were disappointed but believed they made the right decision.

"Last night was quite difficult and there was a lot more of that ahead of us in a long race," she said.

They were the last boat to cross the finishing line at last year's event, making a well-received arrival in Hobart at midnight on New Year's Eve.

Your questions answered

Here are the answers to some of the most common questions.

Who won Sydney to Hobart 2023?

When we talk about the Sydney to Hobart race, there are two major "winners":

• Line honours: This is the order in which boats cross the finish line.
• Overall winners: The order of winners once race times have been calculated to take into account the differences between boats (handicaps). This is because the boats aren't exactly the same — adjustments have to be made for things like the weight and length of the boat.

Line honours will always go to the biggest, fastest yachts (supermaxis) but is likely one of the smaller vessels will be crowned the overall winner (which is seen as the more prestigious of the two prizes).

Here's the line honours as of Thursday morning:

• Andoo Comanche

The difference between the two was just 51 seconds. 

But the overall winner won't be decided for days. 

Until then, we can only wait.

However, before the race, there were a few main contenders for the overall title – here they are listed in alphabetical order:

• SHK Scallywag

Who owns LawConnect?

Christen Beck. 

Mr Beck is the founder of a legal software company, which he created off the back of building a system for his father's legal firm in the 90s. 

In 2017, he was named EY Entrepreneur of the Year and in 2018, he was ranked 99th on the Financial Review's Rich List . 

Who owns Andoo Comanche?

John 'Herman' Winning Jnr.

He's the chief executive of Winning Appliances, a company started by his great grandfather in 1906. 

Mr Winning Jnr took over the role from his father in 2011. 

How far is the Sydney to Hobart distance?

It's a 628-nautical-mile course – that's  1,163 kilometres .

Starting at Sydney Harbour, the course runs down the south-east coast of Australia, across the Bass Strait before turning into the Derwent River to finish in Hobart. 

It usually takes about 48 hours for the first boat to cross the finish line.

What is a nautical mile?

A nautical mile is the equivalent to 1.852 kilometres .

It's an internationally used standardised term used for maritime navigation, based on the Earth's latitude and longitude coordinates.

A nautical mile is the equivalent of one minute of latitude. 

Because of this, a nautical mile is slightly longer than land mile. 

How many boats are in the Sydney to Hobart race?

There's 103 this year. 

What is the prize for Sydney to Hobart?

There's no prize money – just trophies. Here's the two main ones:

• JH Illingworth Challenge Cup: This is for the line honours winner – which is the first boat to cross the finish line.
• Tattersalls Cup: This goes to the overall winner.

What's the Sydney to Hobart record?

The line honours record is 1 day, 9 hours, 15 minutes and 24 seconds .

It was set in 2017 by LDV Comanche.

If you've got even more questions, go read out Sydney to Hobart explainer  or tap the link below to jump back to the top of the story.

Take me back to the top to read the recap

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27 Mar 2024

Our Isles and Oceans wins Race 9: Sailing City - Qingdao Cup

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Latest News: 2023 McIntyre Ocean Globe Prize giving!

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× The live OGR tracker and app will be available from 1 August 2023. In the meantime, we are including a link to the live tracker page of the Golden Globe Race as an example. This is the 2022 edition but all of the features are still active if you have never seen a live map before. You can play/experiment with the top bar features and if you look at the sliding bar at the bottom you can actually replay the video of the race tracker from start to finish. We will have tutorial videos later on how to get the most out of this live tracker.

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• Digital Edition

The Ocean Race 2023 preview: What’s in store for the new race

• Matthew Sheahan
• January 4, 2023

Finally the new crewed lap of the planet, The Ocean Race is set to start this month, with 5 fully-crewed IMOCA 60s on the startline

It’s been a long wait for the next fully crewed lap of the planet since the last one finished in 2018, but finally The Ocean Race will start from Alicante on 15 January. The total fleet is expected to comprise 11 boats in two classes, including the VO65 one-designs from the previous two events and a fleet of five fully crewed IMOCA 60 s.

Compared to the previous race around the world under former sponsors Volvo, there have been several key changes. The course now has fewer stopovers and some significantly longer ocean legs. But the most recent alteration is that not all the boats are going all the way round.

While the IMOCA 60s will complete a full lap of the planet, including seven legs to finish in Genoa, Italy, the VO65s will sail just the first and last two legs in what the organisers have called The Ocean Race VO65 Sprint Cup .

A new trophy will be awarded to the VO65 team which accumulates the best score across three legs of the race; Alicante, Spain, to Cape Verde; Aarhus, Denmark, to The Hague, the Netherlands; and The Hague to the overall finish in Genoa, Italy.

The VO65 and IMOCA 60 fleets will both compete in the in-port races scheduled in those cities, although points scored in the in-port racing will only come into play for the overall trophy in the event of a tie-break.

IMOCA 60s go crewed

The last two years have been particularly difficult for the organisers of The Ocean Race. Finding a title sponsor has proved elusive, while enticing existing IMOCA 60 teams to consider reconfiguring their boats for a fully crewed round the world race has been challenging.

The biggest hurdle has been the global pandemic and the year long postponement that was required. This not only created a huge level of uncertainty for the organisation and teams alike, but the delay presented a potential clash between The Ocean Race and the single-handed French classic, the Route du Rhum , in which 38 IMOCA 60s took part.

Even with the will to do so, competing in both races was always going to be difficult for teams given the short time frame between the Route du Rhum finish in Guadeloupe and the start of The Ocean Race just a few weeks later. Getting the boat back across the Atlantic and correctly configured for a full crew was seen by many as being ambitious at the least.

However, four of the five-boat fleet, including three of the newest IMOCA 60s – Paul Meilhat ’s Biotherm Racing , Boris Herrmann ’s Team Malizia and Kevin Escoffier ’s Holcim PRB – returned relatively unscathed from the solo transat and headed straight to Alicante to be made ready for their circumnavigation.

The fourth was Benjamin Dutreux and Robert Stanjek’s GUYOT Environment-Team Europe , formerly Hugo Boss from the 2016-17 Vendée Globe Race and therefore more proven, which has helped to shuffle the odds in this fleet.

Previously, having been first in the water and having completed far more sea miles than any of the others, Charlie Enright’s 11th Hour Racing Team was considered the outright favourite. But having not competed in the Route du Rhum means that the boat has not lined up against those that it will face from January onwards in a long offshore race.

The IMOCAs are sailed by a complement of five crew, including an onboard reporter (OBR) that takes no part in the sailing. Each IMOCA 60 team has to include at least one female sailor.

VO65s no longer go for a third lap of the planet. Photo: Robin Christol

VO65s Sprint

Although not delivering the original objective of getting two fleets around the world, the late addition of The Ocean Race VO65 Sprint Cup has provided incentive to teams that had been in the wings for some time but unable to commit to a full circumnavigation. A flurry of activity in recent months has resulted in six teams signing up.

The 65s will have a crew of 11 including an OBR. At least three of the crew must be female and at least three of the crew has to be under 30 – the youngest, Polish sailor Mateusz Gwóźdź who is just 17 and competed in the Ocean Race Europe , is returning with the Wind Whisper Racing Team .

The Ocean Race 2023 teams IMOCA 60s

Photo: Amory Ross/11th Hour Racing

11th Hour Racing Team

First to sign up and with way more current sea miles under the keel than any of the other teams, 11th Hour Racing Team skippered by Charlie Enright has been the favourite for some time. Designed specifically for this race and with plenty of runway to refine and develop the boat including four transatlantic crossings, this is the best prepared team. The crew line up is impressive too.

Photo: Malizia – Seaexplorer

Team Malizia

Skippered by Boris Herrmann, who finished 5th in the 2020 Vendée Globe on his first attempt, his team launched their brand new, radical 60 with its distinctive central accommodation area last July.

The boat was designed by VPLP to not only compete in the Ocean Race but also for Herrmann’s 2024 Vendée Globe campaign. Little is known about the true potential of this boat as Herrmann was forced to nurse the boat across the Atlantic after a problem with the mountings for one of the daggerboards.

Photo: Eloi Stichelbaut/polaRYSE

Biotherm Racing

Another brand new boat is Paul Meilhat’s Biotherm Racing , which launched in August 2022. Having co-skippered with Charlie Dalin, Sam Davies and others, Meilhat is fully up to speed with the latest generations of IMOCA 60.

While Meilhat and his crew, which includes Paralympic champion and IMOCA sailor Damien Seguin , have had little time to refine the new Biotherm , they will have gained a great deal of confidence in the boat following Meilhat’s 6th in the Route du Rhum.

Team Holcim – PRB

Designed by Guillaume Verdier for an Ocean Race team that fizzled out, Kevin Escoffier’s Holcim PRB is a modified version of the original design that Escoffier will also solo race in the Vendée Globe. Finishing 4th in the Route du Rhum has not only validated the boat’s potential in a very competitive fleet, but has underlined Escoffier’s credentials as a skipper.

Having finished 3rd and 1st in his two previous fully crewed round the world races with Dongfeng , Escoffier also knows how to get to the front in this long-haul competition.

Photo: ILP Vision/Charles Drapeau

Guyot Environment Team Europe

Winning the Ocean Race Europe in 2021 in an older, non-foiling IMOCA 60 provided the catalyst for Robert Stanjek and crew to compete in The Ocean Race.

Co-skippered with Benjamin Dutreux their boat may not be the latest but as the former Hugo Boss it finished 2nd in the 2016-17 Vendée Globe and is widely considered to be both quick and proven.

The Ocean Race 2023 Sprint teams – VO65s

Ocean Race Europe winners Mirpuri Foundation Racing Team return with an all-Portuguese team skippered by António Fontes who competed as a sailor in the 2017-18 edition of the Volvo.

Dutch Team Jajo is led by 27-year-old Jelmer van Beek with offshore legend Bouwe Bekking as a watch leader, an addition that must surely increase expectations.

Polish Wind Whisper Racing Team is skippered by Pablo Arrarte.

Viva Mexico is led by Erik Brockmann – aiming for a Mexican comeback of sorts after Sayula II ‘s historic win in the first edition of the race in 1973.

Austrian Ocean Racing also returns, along with the Lithuanian Ambersail 2 team, led by London 2012 Olympian sailor Rokas Milevičius.

The Ocean Race Course

The course for The Ocean Race has a new first stopover mid-Atlantic at the Cape Verdes, before an extra long Southern Ocean leg of 12,750 miles from Cape Town, South Africa, to Itajai, Brazil. This new stage passes south of all three Great Capes and is expected to take 34 days.

After this mammoth Southern Ocean leg, the fleet then moves onto a series of much shorter legs. From Brazil they head to Newport, USA. They then cross the Atlantic to Aarhus, DEN. After that a very short hop from Aarhus to The Hague, NED fore a race from The Hague back to Genova, ITA.

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The Ocean Race 2022-23 by the numbers

With 3 Legs now completed, we take a look at the crews that have so far been involved in the current edition of The Ocean Race

Broken down to its fundamentals, the 2022-23 edition of The Ocean Race is a fully-crewed, 32,000 nautical mile (37,000-mile / 60,000-kilometre) six-month, seven-stage, nine-city, around-the-world yacht race, contested by five of the world’s best professional sailing teams racing aboard 60-foot state-of-the-art ocean racing yachts.

But, when we dig a little deeper into the numbers, there are plenty more fascinating facts and figures to be revealed... beginning with fact that the current edition – which started in Alicante, Spain in January, 2023 and finishes in Genova, Italy in July – is the 14th time the race has been staged since its inception 50 years ago in 1973.

An international line-up

The Ocean Race has always attracted the top sailors from across the globe keen to become part of the yacht racing elite who have raced around the world.

The five IMOCA teams competing in the 2022-23 edition come are racing under the national flags of four nations – France (Biotherm), Germany (Team Malizia); Switzerland (Team Holcim - PRB); United States (11th Hour Racing Team) – as well as Europe, represented by GUYOT environnement – Team Europe.

Beyond that, the teams’ sailing squads are made up of 29 sailors representing 10 nationalities: Australian (1*); British (7*); Dutch (1); French (12), German (4); USA (1); Italian (1); Portuguese (1); Spanish (1); Swiss (1).

*11th Hour Racing Team’s Jack Bouttell is a British and Australian passport holder.

The disproportionate number of French sailors should come as no surprise given the country’s fearsome reputation for nurturing top flight ocean racing talent. Four of the five squads include at least two French sailors, with the American 11th Hour Racing Team the only crew not to have any French representation.

Onboard Reporters

Only one of this cycle’s crop of onboard reporters (OBR) is a veteran of previous editions of The Ocean Race. Indeed, having chronicled the adventures of three around-the-world campaigns prior to this one 11th Hour Racing Team’s Amory Ross (USA) is arguably the most experienced OBR in the race’s history.

Ross was onboard PUMA Ocean Racing powered by BERG (USA) in the 2011-12 edition, with Team Alvimedica (USA/TUR) in 2014-15, and with Vestas 11th Hour Racing in 2017-18. Amongst the first-timers in this challenging role are five from France – Charles Drapeau on GUYOT environnement – Team Europe, Anne Beaugé and Ronan Gladu on Biotherm, Julien Champolion on Team Holcim - PRB, as well as the French/German Antoine Auriol on Team Malizia, and China’s Minghao Zhang completing the three-person rotation on Biotherm.

Age is just a number

There is a 24-year age range between this edition’s youngest sailor – 25-year-old Tom Laperche (FRA) on Team Holcim - PRB – and the oldest – 49-year-old Yann Eliès (FRA) on Team Malizia.

Laperche – along with the Netherlands’ Rosalin Kuiper (27), France’s Amélie Grassi (28) on Biotherm, German Phillip Kasüske (28) on GUYOT environnement - Team Europe, and Britain’s Will Harris (29) on Team Malizia, make up a group of five sailors aged under-thirty when this edition of the race began.

As under-28 first-time competitors in The Ocean Race Kasüske, Kuiper, Laperche are each eligible for the Hans Horrevoets Rookie Trophy, which is awarded to the best young newcomer judged to have delivered the most outstanding performance during the 2022-23 edition. The trophy was first presented in 2009 to commemorate Horrevoets’ death after the young Dutch bowman was lost overboard from ABN AMRO TWO during the 2005-06 edition.

When the skippers are ranked by age GUYOT environnement – Team Europe’s co-skipper Benjamin Dutreux is the youngest at 32, ahead of 11th Hour Racing Team’s Charlie Enright at 38, Biotherm’s Paul Meilhat (FRA) at 40 and Team Malizia’s Boris Herrmann (GER) both at 41, with Team Holcim - PRB skipper Kevin Escoffier the oldest at 42.

When it comes to the average age of the teams’ sailing squads, GUYOT environnement – Team Europe are the youngest at an average of 35.6, a fraction ahead of Team Holcim - PRB at 35.8, followed by Team Malizia at 36.3, 11th Hour Racing Team at 37, leaving Biotherm, at 37.2, as the oldest squad based on average age. Veterans and Rookies

The Veterans

Only one entry – 11th Hour Racing Team – features a sailing squad made up entirely of veterans of The Ocean Race.

The American team’s Simon Fisher (GBR) has the most past participations to his name having raced with ABN AMRO TWO (NED) in 2005-06, Telefónica Blue (ESP) in 2008-09, Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing (AUH) in 2011-12 and 2014-15, and Vestas 11th Hour Racing (DEN / USA) in 2017-18.

11th Hour Racing Team skipper Charlie Enright (USA) raced the 2014-15 edition as skipper on Team Alvimedica, and in the same role with Vestas 11th Hour Racing in 2017-18, while Justine Mettraux (SUI) raced the 2014-15 edition with Team SCA (SWE), and with Dongfeng Race Team (CHN) in 2017-18, Francesca Clapcich (ITA) raced with Turn the Tide on Plastic (UN) in 2017-18, and Jack Bouttell raced in both the 2014-15 and 2017-18 editions with Dongfeng Race Team.

Other returning The Ocean Race competitors are:

Biotherm: Sam Davies (GBR) – 2014-15 with Team SCA Anthony Marchand (FRA) – 2014-15 with MAPFRE

GUYOT environnement – Team Europe: Annie Lush (GBR) – 2014-15 with Team SCA and 2017-18 with Team Brunel (NED) Támara Echegoyen (ESP) – 2017-18 with MAPFRE

Team Holcim - PRB: Abby Ehler (GBR) – 2001-02 with Team Amer Sports Too, 2014-15 with Team SCA, and 2017-18 with Team Brunel Sam Goodchild (GBR) – 2014-15 with MAPFRE (ESP) Fabien Delahaye (FRA) – 2017-18 with Dongfeng Race Team

Team Malizia: Nicolas Lunven (FRA) – 2014-15 with MAPFRE and 2017-18 Turn the Tide on Plastic

Meanwhile, 13 competitors from the inaugural edition of The Ocean Race Europe in 2021 are competing in The Ocean Race 2022-23 around the world.

Team Malizia: Will Harris – AkzoNobel Ocean Racing (NED) Nicolas Lunven – Mirpuri Foundation Racing Team (POR) Rosalin Kuiper – AkzoNobel Ocean Racing (NED)

GUYOT environnement – Team Europe: Benjamin Dutreux – Offshore Team Germany Robert Stanjek – Offshore Team Germany Annie Lush – Offshore Team Germany Phillip Kasüske – Offshore Team Germany

Biotherm: Mariana Lobato – Mirpuri Foundation Racing Team

11th Hour Racing Team: Justine Mettraux – 11th Hour Racing Team Simon Fisher – 11th Hour Racing Team Charlie Enright – 11th Hour Racing Team Jack Bouttell – Mirpuri Foundation Racing Team

The Rookies

In total there are 15 sailors who are taking on The Ocean Race for the first time during the 2022-23 edition.

Team Malizia: Yann Eliès (FRA) Will Harris (GBR) Boris Herrmann (GER) Rosalin Kuiper (NED) Axelle Pillain (FRA)

GUYOT environnement – Team Europe: Benjamin Dutreux (FRA) Sébastien Simon (FRA) Robert Stanjek (GER) Phillip Kasüske (GER)

Biotherm: Paul Meilhat (FRA) Amélie Grassi (FRA) Damien Seguin (FRA)

Team Holcim - PRB: Susann Beucke (GER) Tom Laperche (FRA)

Olympians and Paralympians

The Ocean Race has a well established reputation for attracting the very best sailing talent from across the globe. The current edition is no different and the crew lists include three Olympians (GUYOT environnement - Team Europe’s Robert Stanjek and Annie Lush, along with 11th Hour Racing’s Francesca Clapcich), two Olympic medallists – Támara Echegoyen from GUYOT environnement - Team Europe (gold at London 2012), Olympic silver medallist Susann Beucke on Team Holcim - PRB (silver at Tokyo 2020) – as well as Biotherm’s Damian Seguin (Paralympic gold at Athens 2004, silver at Beijing 2008, and gold at London 2012) dotted throughout the fleet.

Vendée Globe Veterans

The latest edition of The Ocean Race is the first time in which the 60-foot offshore foiling IMOCA yachts are being raced in fully-crewed configuration. Previously, this class was best known for offshore solo sailing in events like the Vendée Globe – so it is no surprise to see eight past competitors in that infamous non-stop around-the-world race amongst The Ocean Race 2022-23 teams.

GUYOT environnement – Team Europe: Benjamin Dutreux 2020-21 Sébastien Simon 2020-21

Team Malizia: Boris Herrmann 2020-21 Yann Eliès 2008-09, 2016-17

Biotherm: Paul Meilhat 2016-17 Sam Davies 2008-09, 2012-13, 2020-21 Damien Seguin 2020-21

Team Holcim - PRB: Kevin Escoffier 2020-21

Design and Build

When it came to choosing a naval architect capable of conjuring up an IMOCA design fast and resilient enough to win The Ocean Race 2022-23 it seems that the teams were all fishing in the same small talent pond.

French foiling maestro Guillaume Verdier has had a hand in the design four out of the five boats – having worked exclusively on 11th Hour Racing Team’s Mālama, Holcim - PRB, and Biotherm – as well as in conjunction with Marc Van Peteghem and Vincent Lauriot-Prévost French design house VPLP on GUYOT environnement – Team Europe’s IMOCA, which was originally Alex Thompson’s HUGO BOSS and later 11th Hour Racing Team’s training boat Alaka'i. The design for Team Malizia’s Malizia – Seaexplorer was created by VPLP.

Although the GUYOT environnement – Team Europe IMOCA was originally launched back in 2015, it was in August 2010 that 11th Hour Racing Team’s Mālama became the first of the new generation of The Ocean Race 2022-23 boats to be launched. May 2022 saw the Holcim - PRB 60-footer float for the first time, with Malizia – Seaexplorer and Biotherm following suit in July and September respectively.

Entry List & Results Tracker

April 24, 2023

2023 Race , Press Release

2023 Program

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22 yachts representing 14 countries line up for the 2023 Ocean Globe Race

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Rose Climbs the Heights to Win Superyacht Cup Palma 2023

Three days of inspiring racing at Superyacht Cup Palma 2023 concluded today with the 24m Farr-designed Rose becoming the first Wally Yacht to win Europe's longest-running superyacht regatta.

The St. Regis Race Day finale delivered another instalment of the excellent race conditions that the Bay of Palma is famed for, with 10 to 12 knots of wind and bright sunshine.

With two wins in Class B already on account, Rose began the final day in pole position and was able to claim a third race victory — but only by five seconds on corrected time in front of the well sailed Swan 100 Onyx , who finished second in class .

Speaking at the celebratory Prize-Giving on the terrace of the Real Club Náutico de Palma Rose's tactician Jesper Radich said : "This year was amazing for us — at times it was difficult but by the end we had super conditions. It was windy, it was sunny, it was shifty, so not a straightforward course and you really had to make decisions on every leg.

"So really challenging and we came out on the winning side. Today we only won by five seconds, and it doesn't get any closer than that after two hours of racing. I've done a lot of match racing and that was what it was like out there, a lot of fun."

Meanwhile, in a similarly closely contested Class A the venerable and elegant J Class classic Velsheda claimed victory with two race wins, finishing a point ahead of her J Class rival Svea , who posted a 2-2-2 scoreline. Both were clear of the modern 33m Ribelle — who won day 2 — and her Malcolm McKeon-designed Vitters Yard stablemate Pattoo .

"We have just come out of a major refit, so it was great to be here, one hundred percent," said skipper Barney Henshaw-Depledge .

"We had a good first day and then the second was more painful as we were OCS, but today I guess we got lucky. We have had ups and downs in Palma but it's great and the conditions are so good. It's been great."

Superyacht Cup Palma 2024

Announcing that Superyacht Cup Palma 2024 will be held between June 19 to 22 next year, and reflecting on this year's 27th annual celebration of sail, SYC Event Director Kate Branagh said : "We have had a fabulous few days with fantastic racing and great weather, and everyone has enjoyed it. It's been terrific to again welcome boats back to Palma and we are looking forward to seeing them again next year."

Branagh also repeated her gratitude for the support of long-running partners such as Preferred Hotel Partner St. Regis Hotels & Resorts, Destination Partner New Zealand, and Official Timepiece Jaquet Droz.

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Further information about the population structure:

Located in:

• Irkutsk Oblast

34 Facts About Irkutsk

Written by Aimee Brunson

Modified & Updated: 27 Jul 2024

Reviewed by Sherman Smith

• Culture And Traditions Facts
• Geography Facts
• Historical Facts
• Russian Architecture Facts
• Siberia Facts
• Trans-siberian Railway Facts
• Travel Destinations Facts

Irkutsk, known as the “Paris of Siberia,” is a fascinating city located in eastern Russia. With a rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene, Irkutsk has become a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique and immersive experience. Situated near the banks of the Angara River and surrounded by the picturesque Siberian taiga, this city offers a remarkable blend of old-world charm and modernity.

In this article, we will explore 34 intriguing facts about Irkutsk that will give you a deeper insight into this captivating city. From its role in the Russian colonization of Siberia to its architectural gems, Irkutsk has a wealth of stories to tell. Whether you are planning a visit or simply interested in learning more about this hidden gem of Russia , these facts will surely pique your curiosity and inspire you to discover all that Irkutsk has to offer.

Key Takeaways:

• Irkutsk, the “Paris of Siberia,” boasts stunning natural beauty, vibrant arts scene, and rich history. From wooden architecture to the Trans-Siberian Railway, it’s a city of diverse cultural treasures.
• With its continental climate, Irkutsk offers a mix of cold winters and warm summers. Visitors can explore the city’s diverse culture, enjoy outdoor activities, and experience the unique Baikal Ice Marathon.

Irkutsk is the capital city of the Irkutsk Oblast in Russia.

Irkutsk is a vibrant city located in Siberia, known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty.

The origins of Irkutsk can be traced back to 1661.

This city was founded as a settlement for fur traders and quickly grew into a major trading post in Siberia.

Irkutsk is often referred to as the “Paris of Siberia.”

With its charming streets, picturesque buildings, and cultural attractions, Irkutsk has a romantic and European vibe.

Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world, is located near Irkutsk.

This natural wonder is a must-visit destination for tourists and offers breathtaking views and unique wildlife.

Irkutsk is famous for its wooden architecture.

The city is home to numerous beautifully crafted wooden houses and churches, showcasing traditional Russian craftsmanship.

The Trans-Siberian Railway passes through Irkutsk.

Irkutsk is a major stop along this iconic railway route, attracting tourists from around the world.

Irkutsk is known for its vibrant arts and cultural scene.

The city is home to many theaters, art galleries, and museums, showcasing both traditional and contemporary Russian art.

The Irkutsk State University is one of the oldest and most prestigious universities in Siberia.

It is renowned for its academic excellence and offers a wide range of courses and programs to students.

The Angara River flows through Irkutsk.

This picturesque river adds to the city’s charm and offers opportunities for boating and recreational activities.

Irkutsk is surrounded by stunning natural landscapes.

From majestic mountains to vast forests, there is no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had in the region.

Irkutsk has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers.

Visitors should pack accordingly, as temperatures can reach below freezing in winter and rise above 30 degrees Celsius in summer.

The Transfiguration Church in Irkutsk is a prominent architectural landmark.

Its unique design and colorful exterior make it a popular attraction for tourists and locals alike.

The Circum-Baikal Railway, a historical railway line, starts in Irkutsk.

This scenic route offers stunning views of Lake Baikal and is a popular tourist attraction.

Irkutsk is known for its delicious cuisine.

Try traditional Siberian dishes like pelmeni (dumplings) or omul (a type of fish), and indulge in hearty Russian meals.

The Museum of Wooden Architecture in Irkutsk showcases the city’s rich heritage.

Visitors can explore traditional wooden buildings and learn about the history and culture of the region.

Irkutsk is a gateway to exploring the vast wilderness of Siberia.

Adventure seekers can embark on hiking, camping, or wildlife spotting expeditions in the nearby national parks.

The Decembrists Museum in Irkutsk tells the story of the exiled Decembrist revolutionaries.

Learn about their struggles and contributions to Russian history at this fascinating museum.

Irkutsk is home to the annual “Baikal Ice Marathon,” a unique race on the frozen surface of Lake Baikal.

Participants from around the world brave the extreme conditions to compete in this challenging event.

The famous Baikal-Amur Mainline (BAM) railway passes through Irkutsk.

This railway route is a symbol of Siberian resilience and connects the region to the Russian Far East.

Irkutsk has a lively nightlife scene.

There are plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants where visitors can enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and indulge in local drinks.

The Znamensky Monastery is a spiritual and architectural gem in Irkutsk.

Its intricate frescoes and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit destination for history and culture enthusiasts.

Irkutsk is known as a center for ice sculpting.

The annual International Ice Sculpture Festival attracts talented artists from around the world to showcase their frozen masterpieces.

The Geological Museum in Irkutsk displays an impressive collection of minerals and fossils.

Explore the wonders of the Earth’s history and learn about the geological significance of the region.

Irkutsk is a hub for winter sports.

From skiing to ice skating, there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy during the winter months.

The Trud Stadium in Irkutsk is home to the local football team, FC Irkutsk.

Catch a game and cheer on the home team in this lively sporting atmosphere.

Irkutsk has a rich literary history.

Many famous Russian writers, such as Anton Chekhov and Fyodor Dostoevsky , have been inspired by this enchanting city.

The Angara Icebreaker Museum in Irkutsk offers a unique insight into the world of icebreaker ships.

Step aboard and learn about the important role these vessels played in Siberia’s transportation history.

Irkutsk hosts the Baikal International Film Festival.

This acclaimed event brings filmmakers and cinema enthusiasts together to celebrate the art of storytelling.

The Taltsy Museum of Wooden Architecture and Ethnography showcases traditional Siberian village life.

Explore reconstructed wooden buildings and get a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural heritage.

Irkutsk is home to several prestigious theaters, including the Irkutsk Drama Theater and the Irkutsk Opera and Ballet Theater.

Experience the enchanting world of performing arts and enjoy a night of cultural entertainment.

Irkutsk is a popular destination for ecotourism.

Explore the region’s diverse ecosystems, spot unique wildlife, and contribute to sustainable travel practices.

Irkutsk has a thriving craft beer scene.

Visit local breweries and taste a wide variety of craft beers, brewed with passion and creativity.

The Sacred Cross Exaltation Church is a magnificent Orthodox church in Irkutsk.

Admire its grand architecture and explore the spiritual side of the city.

Irkutsk is a melting pot of cultures.

The city’s history of trade and exploration has led to a diverse population and a unique blend of traditions and customs.

With its fascinating history, stunning natural landscapes, and vibrant cultural scene, Irkutsk offers something for everyone. Whether you’re exploring the wooden architecture, immersing yourself in the arts, or embarking on outdoor adventures, this city will surely captivate your heart. Plan your visit to Irkutsk and uncover the hidden treasures of this remarkable Siberian gem.

In conclusion, Irkutsk is a city with a rich and fascinating history, stunning natural landscapes, and a vibrant cultural scene . From its founding as a trading post to its pivotal role in the Trans-Siberian Railway, Irkutsk has emerged as a thriving hub for tourism and commerce in Siberia . The city’s unique architecture, including its wooden houses and ornate cathedrals, adds to its charm and allure.With its proximity to Lake Baikal, the deepest lake in the world, Irkutsk offers opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to explore its pristine beauty through activities like hiking, boating, and ice fishing . The Baikal Museum provides valuable insights into the lake’s ecological significance and diverse marine life.Visitors to Irkutsk can also immerse themselves in its vibrant cultural heritage by attending the International Baikal Festival or exploring the local cuisine, which features hearty Siberian dishes and locally produced vodka.Whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, or a lover of arts and culture, Irkutsk has something for everyone. Its unique blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and warm hospitality make it a must-visit destination in Siberia.

Q: What is the best time to visit Irkutsk?

A: The best time to visit Irkutsk is during the summer months from June to September, when the weather is mild and conducive for outdoor activities. However, if you wish to experience the magic of winter and witness the frozen beauty of Lake Baikal, visiting between December and February is recommended.

Q: How do I get to Irkutsk?

A: Irkutsk is well-connected to major Russian cities and international destinations. You can reach Irkutsk by air through Irkutsk International Airport or by train via the Trans-Siberian Railway, which has regular connections to Moscow, Vladivostok , and other cities.

Q: What are the must-visit attractions in Irkutsk?

A: Some of the must-visit attractions in Irkutsk include the Irkutsk Regional Museum, the Decembrists’ Museum, the Church of the Savior, the Znamensky Monastery, and of course, the nearby Lake Baikal.

Q: Can I take a day trip to Lake Baikal from Irkutsk?

A: Yes, it is possible to take a day trip to Lake Baikal from Irkutsk. There are organized tours and public transportation options available to visit popular destinations such as Listvyanka, which is located just 70 kilometers from Irkutsk.

Q: What is the local cuisine like in Irkutsk?

A: The local cuisine in Irkutsk is a delicious blend of Siberian and Russian flavors. Some popular dishes include pelmeni (dumplings), omul (a type of fish), borsch ( beet soup), and pirozhki (stuffed pastries). Don’t forget to try some locally produced vodka!

Irkutsk's captivating history, stunning architecture, and breathtaking natural surroundings make it a truly unique destination. From the iconic Lake Baikal to its thriving arts scene, this Siberian gem offers endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. If you're curious about other fascinating places in the region, why not learn more about the intriguing city of Bratsk ? With its own set of remarkable facts and attractions, Bratsk promises to be an equally engaging and enlightening read.

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Our commitment to delivering trustworthy and engaging content is at the heart of what we do. Each fact on our site is contributed by real users like you, bringing a wealth of diverse insights and information. To ensure the highest standards of accuracy and reliability, our dedicated editors meticulously review each submission. This process guarantees that the facts we share are not only fascinating but also credible. Trust in our commitment to quality and authenticity as you explore and learn with us.

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Aug 16, 2024 Lorie Orum

Nina Kraviz Net Worth, Age, Height, Bio, Birthday, Wiki!

Explore Nina Kraviz net worth, age, height, bio, birthday, wiki, and salary! In this article, we will discover how old is Nina Kraviz? Who is Nina Kraviz dating now & how much money does Nina Kraviz have?

Nina Kraviz Biography

Nina Kraviz is one of the most popular and richest DJ who was born on October 12, 1982 in Irkutsk, Irkutsk Oblast, Russia . Electronic DJ and producer of dance music who is renowned by her contribution to genres of techno and tech-house. 2017 saw her release her debut album Pochuvstvui via Her own Trip record label.

She as well as Both she and John Digweed performed at the CRSSD Fest in 2018. performed at the CRSSD Fest in 2018.

The girl was raised in Russia.

Ethnicity, religion & political views

Many peoples want to know what is Nina Kraviz ethnicity, nationality, Ancestry & Race? Let's check it out! As per public resource, IMDb & Wikipedia, Nina Kraviz's ethnicity is Not Known. We will update Nina Kraviz's religion & political views in this article. Please check the article again after few days.

Nina Kraviz Net Worth

Nina Kraviz is one of the richest DJ from Russia. According to our analysis, Wikipedia, Forbes & Business Insider, Nina Kraviz 's net worth $5 Million . (Last Update: December 11, 2023)

She received her doctorate in dentistry.

She performed during CRSSD Fest in 2018. CRSSD Fest in San Diego, CA.

Height, Weight & Body Measurements

Nina Kraviz height 5 ft 7 in Nina weight Not Known & body measurements will update soon.

Who is Nina Kraviz Dating?

According to our records, Nina Kraviz is possibily single & has not been previously engaged. As of December 1, 2023, Nina Kraviz’s is not dating anyone.

Facts & Trivia

Nina Ranked on the list of most popular DJ . Also ranked in the elit list of famous people born in Russia . Nina Kraviz celebrates birthday on October 12 of every year.

What did Nina Kraviz do?

Russian DJ Nina Kraviz Dropped From Three Music Festivals Amid Criticism Over Perceived Pro-Putin Stance. Three festivals have dropped the Russian DJ Nina Kraviz from their lineups due to Kraviz’s perceived support for Russian president Vladimir Putin, Time reports.

Where does Nina Kraviz live now?

Her life is shaped by the self-confidence of a successful artist who’s permanently on the road and whose home is the world. Kraviz hasn’t been back to her Berlin flat for a while. She’s been hunkered down in Moscow since September.

What type of music does Nina Kraviz play?

Her range of sounds is astounding – from pure house music, ambient, minimalistic techno and songs , but all delivered with the unmistakable Kraviz twist.

Does Nina Kravitz support Putin?

Kraviz, one of the most famous Russian pop musicians on a global scale, has been called out by Ukrainian and Russian electronic music artists over the past couple months for previous social media posts that appear to support Vladimir Putin , as well as her public silence once the invasion began.

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