Jeanneau’s proven offshore pedigree front and centre as accomplished sailors, including Performance Boating Sales Director Lee Condell, back the brand.
Jeanneaun Sun Fast 3300 © Jeanneau
The 80th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race will feature a powerful showing from the Jeanneau Sun Fast fleet, with six Sun Fasts entered and four of those competing in the rapidly growing double-handed division. The Jeanneau Sun Fast range has forged an enviable reputation worldwide for offshore performance, versatility and reliability, making it a natural choice for sailors targeting success in one of the world’s toughest ocean classics.
Two Sun Fast 3600s will compete fully crewed: “Wyuna”, skippered by Hilary Arthure from Western Australia, and “Gizmo”, skippered by Australian expat Marc Michel. Both crews will be looking to capitalise on the 3600’s proven speed and capability across varying offshore conditions.
Jeanneaun Sun Fast 3600 © Jeanneau
In the double-handed division, Victorian offshore veteran Rod Smallman teams up with Alex Toomey on the Sun Fast 3600 “Beautemps”. Despite only racing this specific boat once, their experience and the platform beneath them set expectations for a strong showing. In the Sun Fast 3300 fleet, Hobart local Jean-Pierre Ravanet will co-skipper “Hip-Nautic” with Dylan Gore, a campaign that brings two previous Hobarts of valuable boat history into this year’s challenge.
Andy Offord will race the Sun Fast 3300 “Borderline” alongside highly experienced UK 3300 owner Ian Hoddle. While it will be their first race together, the pair have deep experience with the Sun Fast 3300 design and are expected to extract its full potential throughout the 628 nautical mile course.
Jeanneaun Sun Fast 3300 ‘Borderline’ © PBS
Edward Curry-Hyde will compete on “Toucan” with Lincoln Dews, who finished second in the double-handed division in 2022 with PBS Director Lee Condell. Their recent victory in the Cabbage Tree Island Race highlights both preparation and intent as they mount a serious push for the double-handed title in this year’s Hobart.
The confidence these teams place in the Jeanneau Sun Fast range reflects its global standing as one of the most successful production offshore racing platforms. Designed for performance, stability, and endurance, the Sun Fast models have earned podiums in major offshore races around the world, including Fastnet, Transquadra, Middle Sea Race and Sydney Hobart divisions.
PBS Director Lee Condell, himself a highly accomplished offshore and double-handed sailor with extensive experience at the helm of Sun Fasts, highlighted the depth of talent and commitment among this year’s Sun Fast entrants.
“The Jeanneau Sun Fast range has always been about delivering honest, reliable offshore speed in a package that rewards skill, preparation and teamwork,” Condell said. “It’s fantastic to see so many well-prepared campaigns lining up for this landmark 80th edition of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.”
Performance Boating Sales extends its best wishes to all Sun Fast crews for a safe, competitive and successful race south.
For more information visit www.performanceboating.com.au and www.jeanneauaustralia.com
