3 Chinese boats set sail in Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race

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Eight-eight yachts have set sail down under on Boxing Day, vying for glory in the annual Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race.

The fleet is expected to arrive in Hobart, Tasmania on Wednesday, a distance of 1,170 kilometers.

ARK 323. [File photo]


Three Chinese boats are taking part, ARK 323 and UBOX from the Chinese mainland, and Scallywag from Hong Kong.

UBOX captain Wang Lei said his team came to Sydney one month in advance to prepare for their maiden entry.

"We have been ready up to now, waiting for the race to start at any time. Our goal is try our best to complete the race."

Yacht racing is not a traditional strength for China, so team UBOX have been learning and training with European sailors. Four of the yacht's 10-member crew are from France, including navigator and former Olympian Marie Riou.

The Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is considered to be one of the most difficult yacht races in the world, with storms, tropical airflows, strong headwinds, and contrary water flows just some of the challenges.

The Chinese participants said they hope to uphold the spirit of Guo Chuan, the Chinese sailor who went missing off the coast of Hawaii two months ago, while on an world record-breaking attempt.

Guo was China's first-ever professional sailor and held two world records, including becoming the first Chinese sailor to circumnavigate the earth solo.

The 2015 winner Balance, skippered by Paul Clitheroe, is hoping to win the title for a second year in a row, although no boat has won two straight victories for nearly half a century.

Perpetual Loyal has taken an early lead, followed by eight-time winner Wild Oats XI.

 

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