LawConnect claims back-to-back Sydney to Hobart line honours
Defending champion LawConnect secured consecutive Sydney to Hobart yacht race victories, achieving line honours in a race overshadowed by tragedy.
Skippered by Christian Beck, the supermaxi completed the 628-nautical-mile course, finishing in Hobart at 2:30 am on Saturday, December 28. LawConnect clocked a time of 1 day, 13 hours, 35 minutes, and 13 seconds, comfortably ahead of Celestial V70 and Wild Thing 100, paying $2.90 with the leading Australian bookmakers.
Despite applause and cheers greeting the crew as they arrived in Hobart, onboard celebrations were subdued out of respect for two competitors who lost their lives on rival yachts during the race.
Crew member Tony Mutter reflected on the sombre atmosphere, stating the crew were informed of the deaths on the morning of day two. “We were absolutely surprised and just felt for the other competitors,” Mutter said. He explained that the team had been intensely focused on the race and was notified at an appropriate moment.
The race presented challenging conditions, particularly on the first night, when strong winds caused 28 yachts to withdraw. Mutter described the conditions as some of the roughest he has experienced in his 11 Sydney to Hobart races.
“We came through OK and didn’t break too much stuff — people have got a few bumps and bruises,” he said. Mutter was also “surprised” that LawConnect suffered no sail damage despite the harsh conditions.
The crew’s cohesion, a significant factor in their success, was evident throughout the race. “Crew continuity is a big help for us,” Mutter remarked. “Once you know how everyone is going to react in a situation, it makes a massive difference.”
Last year, LawConnect narrowly edged out Andoo Comanche by 51 seconds in a thrilling finish. This year, the race unfolded differently, with no significant challengers in the final stretch down the River Derwent.
Beck was absent from the post-race press conference due to suspected food poisoning, leaving Mutter to represent the team.
Reflecting on the overall journey, Mutter acknowledged a “rookie error” early in the race when unfurling the wrong side of a sail caused complications. However, the team quickly regrouped and executed a flawless performance afterward.
While their victory marked a moment of triumph, the team plans to honour their achievement with a private celebration, keeping in mind the tragedy that marred this year’s event.
