The Sydney to Hobart yacht race has developed into a nail-biter with frontrunners sailing within a short distance of each other off Tasmania’s east coast.
As of 2:30pm Sunday, Master Lock Comanche is holding a narrow lead it passes Eaglehawk Neck, sailing between 15 and 21 knots.
LawConnect and Scallywag follow close behind, with Lucky also in contention for line honours in what has become one of the tightest races in recent memory.
Pulse images taken at sea around 1pm showed the leading pack sailing near Maria Island off Tasmania’s east coast, with analysts predicting the leaders may reach Hobart this evening.
The fleet has faced brutal conditions since the Boxing Day start, with more than a quarter of the 128 competing yachts forced to retire.
A total of 33 boats have withdrawn after battling rough seas, equipment damage and sea sickness.
The frontrunners have compressed following two punishing nights at sea.
Conditions are expected to improve later Sunday, potentially setting up a dramatic sprint to the finish line.
