Sydney To Hobart betting preview & yacht race tips | December 26

Sydney To Hobart best bet

2024 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Preview

The iconic Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race returns for its 79th edition on Boxing Day, December 26, with a fleet of 105 yachts poised to tackle the 628-nautical-mile journey from Sydney Harbour to Hobart. The race is one of the world’s premier offshore sailing events, and this year promises high-stakes drama with a star-studded lineup.

Master Lock Comanche enters as the top online bookmaker favourite at odds of $1.45. Rebranded from last year’s Andoo Comanche, this 100-foot maxi is determined to go one better after narrowly missing the title in 2023 by just 51 seconds. The team, led by Matt Allena and James Mayo, boasts the speed and pedigree to dominate both out of the Heads and across the Bass Strait.

Defending champion LawConnect, priced at $2.90 with Neds, seeks to replicate last year’s thrilling victory, with skipper Christian Beck at the helm. The yacht’s remarkable 2023 performance proved its resilience and tactical prowess, especially in the latter stages of the race.

Another contender is Wild Thing 100, listed at $15. Grant Wharington’s expanded vessel aims to disrupt the rivalry between Comanche and LawConnect. Though an outsider, Wild Thing 100’s formidable size and crew experience make it a credible threat.

An inspiring highlight of the 2024 race is the entry of the all-Filipino crew aboard Centennial 7, helmed by Ernesto Echauz. This team of 15 sailors, including members of the Philippine Navy and national sailing squad, marks a milestone in the race’s history. Sailing aboard the former Celestial, which won overall honors in 2022, they hope to finish strong and make their mark in Australian waters.

Sydney To Hobart 2024 Line Honours Betting Odds

Top Markets as of December 24, 2024 – Courtesy of Neds

• Master Lock Comanche Win $1.45
• LawConnect Win $2.80
• Wild Thing 100 Win $17.00
• URM Group Win $21.00
• Alive Win $21.00
• Celestial Win $34.00
• No Limit Win $67.00
• Whisper Win $67.00
• Caro Win $67.00
• Smuggler Win $67.00

Sydney To Hobart Betting Predictions

Defending champion LawConnect returns with momentum, aiming to replicate last year’s thrilling victory. Skipper Christian Beck led the yacht to an exhilarating win in 2023, edging out Andoo Comanche by just 51 seconds in one of the closest finishes in the race’s history. Despite strong competition from Master Loch Comanche, LawConnect’s tactical acumen and ability to perform under pressure make it a strong contender. At $2.90 with Neds, this bet offers value for those backing a proven champion.

Master Loch Comanche is the clear favourite to lead the fleet out of Sydney Harbour, reflecting its unmatched speed and strong history of commanding starts. Rebranded from Andoo Comanche, the 100-foot maxi is optimized for the early sprint and boasts an experienced crew ready to capitalise on its strengths, with PlayUp offering $1.60.

The two-time overall handicap winner, Alive, enters the race with a reputation for strategic sailing and consistent performances. Known for leveraging its design to maximise time corrections, the yacht has the credentials to challenge for the overall handicap title. Its odds of $6.50 at Bet365 reflect its underdog status, but Alive’s history of success and adaptability make it a worthy choice for those seeking a high-value bet in this category.

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