Entries are now open for the 2019 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, with the just-launched Notice of Race (NOR) encouraging sailors from around the world to join the historic 75th running of the ‘Everest’ of ocean racing.

First conducted in 1945 from the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia in Rushcutters Bay, Sydney, the annual bluewater classic, which starts on Boxing Day each year, has evolved into a pinnacle sailing event, drawing interest and entries from around the globe.

Sydney Harbour will once again be a hive of action this coming Boxing Day. Credit - Rolex/Studio Borlenghi

The CYCA Sailing Committee anticipates a larger fleet than the average 95 entries of recent years with early indications of a bumper start on December 26, 2019 for between 120 and 140 boats. Organisers will accommodate as many starters that apply and meet the eligibility criteria.

Given the bigger fleet, the host club is in discussions with other Sydney yacht clubs and marinas, as well as Roads and Maritime Services, to devise a berthing plan to accommodate the anticipated influx of boats to Sydney Harbour pre-Christmas.

Longtime finishing partner the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania is going through the same process with additional berthing to be made available in Constitution Dock and Kings Pier marina.

With the world’s eyes turning to this year’s milestone race, the CYCA has undertaken a full review of the Notice of Race, the official document which stipulates entry requirements and, once published, signifies online entry is open. While the changes to the NOR are material, competitors should read the document carefully.

“The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is one of the greatest ocean races in the world and is the jewel in the CYCA’s crown,” CYCA Commodore Paul Billingham says.

“The 2019 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race marks the 75th race south and we are planning to celebrate with a calendar of events that pays tribute to one of Australia’s greatest annual sporting fixtures.

“We look forward to including entrants, supporters, media and the public from around the world to the 75th Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.

“We can’t wait for Boxing Day… and the party we’ll have throughout the year.”

The anniversary 2019 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is expected to lure a number of former overall winners back to the start line, one of the best-known being Simon Kurts’ magnificent Sparkman & Stephens design called Love & War, a triple Tattersall Cup winner, in 1974, 1978 and 2006.

Additionally, the CYCA is requesting expressions of interest from overseas competitors looking at shipping their boats as part of a group from the Mediterranean or East Coast USA in October to compete in the 75th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. Please email justine.kirkjian@cyca.com.au to express your interest.

Rolex’s partnership with the CYCA and its premier event began in 2002 and the Swiss luxury watch manufacturer is proud to be the naming rights sponsor of the 75th anniversary race.

The NOR and online entry is now available under ‘For Competitors’ on the official website. Entries close at 1700 hours on October 25.

As part of the 75th anniversary celebrations, the CYCA will host a range of events in Sydney and Hobart throughout the year, with more details to be released soon.