Supermaxi LawConnect crossed the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race finish line at 2.35am, bringing home line honours glory for the second year running.
The 2024 Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race has been a wild ride. The victorious LawConnect supermaxi crew completed the Derwent River homeward stretch in the dark of night, crossing the finish line in first position at 2.35am.
“On board were all but one of last year’s victorious sailing crew along with Beck’s usual few from his business, each given the priceless opportunity of taking part in one of Australia’s greatest sporting events,” a statement from race officials reads.
The reigning line honours champions issued condolences to the crews of The Flying Fish Arctos and Bowline who suffered fatalities yesterday.
“Our thoughts remain with the crew and sailing community who have been impacted by this event. We would like to offer our heartfelt sympathy to all the family, friends and crew affected by this unimaginable loss,” a LawConnect spokesperson told Forbes Australia.
At least 25 yachts retired from the 628 nautical mile race amid challenging conditions. Celestial V70 will take second place in line honours, but first in the overall competition.
“Celestial V70, the Volvo Open 70, better known as Willow and chartered by CYCA Commodore, Sam Haynes, is the next yacht due over the line,” a statement from the Rolex Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race officials states. “The 70 footer, tailor made for the conditions in this race, was just over 20 nautical miles behind LawConnect when the latter crossed the finish line.”
Spectators have gathered together in Hobart to welcome the vessels home.
“Grant Wharington’s 100 footer, Wild Thing 100, with her short rig, is the third boat due into Hobart where the crowds are gathered on the water and ashore,” a statement reads.
LawConnect’s 100 foot supermaxi is skippered by Christian Beck, the CEO and founder of LEAP and free legal help platform LawConnect. Beck says that he takes a back seat during the race, and leaves the hard work to sailing master Tony Mutter who leads the crew.
“I used to try to help, but I realised later that the best thing I could do was just leave it to them,” Beck tells Forbes Australia. “And that’s probably where I have been helpful. Last year, we had a very bad boat, but we won, and it’s partly because I did nothing. I get on there on Boxing Day and get off two days later, and I spend time with the crew leading up to the race.”
Beck says there are parallels between leading a business and sailing.
“If you’re chairman of a company and have a good CEO, the best thing you can do is nothing. You have to support the CEO. But largely, the best thing to do is nothing, and most people struggle with that, because when it’s going well, you want to be involved.”
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