Ctrl + Alt + Sail: My Sydney to Hobart Journey

Certain experiences stay with you long after they’re over. Sailing the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race is one of them.

From the moment we left Sydney Harbour, it was unlike anything I’d ever experienced before; the familiarity of desk life faded away, replaced by life onboard the LawConnect supermaxi.

Since moving to Australia from the UK, I followed the race from afar, never imagining I’d one day be part of it. Watching LawConnect compete had reignited my love for sailing, so being given the opportunity to step on board felt almost surreal. It truly was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

In preparation for the race, there was a lot to learn. Training days were fast-paced, covering everything from media software to keeping my hat on my head. The crew were incredibly welcoming and keen to involve me wherever possible, whether that meant calling the start countdown or helping stow lines.

What I had imagined to be the hardest part of the race then unfolded in an entirely different way. After racing under a bright full moon at Cabbage Tree Island, I’d been warned how dark Sydney to Hobart would be, and with the conditions we’d already endured, I prepared for the worst. Instead, the clouds thinned, and the stars appeared in remarkable clarity. It was unexpectedly beautiful. 

Nothing, however, could prepare me for the conditions. The Bass Strait is inescapable, and once you reach it, the only option is to keep going. The race tested me physically more than I anticipated, and despite never having experienced seasickness before, the nausea and lack of appetite were difficult to manage. Still, I’m proud that I could push through to keep the live stream running, even if I did spend more time off-colour than I would have liked.

Crossing the finish line brought everything together. Elation, adrenaline, exhaustion, combined in a cocktail shaker and served in waterproof socks. Being on the helm across the finish line was truly incredible. I felt so much love and support from the spectators’ boats and the crowd on the dock, pride in what the crew had achieved and gratitude that I’d been able to be a part of it. It was one of the most incredible moments of my life. 

If I weren't taking the spot from someone else, I would do it again in a heartbeat. To anyone who gets this opportunity: aim high and give it everything, but don’t let perfectionism overshadow the experience or let the fear of failure hold you back. Life is much more fun and interesting when you say yes.