Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race

Press, Volume XCIV, Issue 28162, 28 December 1956, Page 6

Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race

(N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) (Rec. 10 p.m.) SYDNEY, Dec. 27. The largest yacht in the Sydney to Hobart race, Kurrewa IV. was leading the field today, according to latest reports from the mother ship, Lauriana. The reports said that the 57ft cutter, Solo, was overhauling Kurrewa IV. In third place is the 38ft cutter, Anitra. The last report received from Lauriana said that the leading yachts were near Duros inlet, and should pass Montague Island, about 250 miles south of Sydney, this afternoon. No reports of damage or withdrawals because of a southerly gale, which hit the yachts last night, have yet been made. Lauriana said the yachts were sailing well, but had been widely scattered by the gale. During the gale Lauriana had her main sheet torn to pieces, and is now using a storm main sail and her engines to keep up with the leaders. Cruising Yacht Club officals refused to allow the 55ft Victorian cutter, Roama, to. start in the race. Officials claimed that the yacht’s entry had been cancelled last week in a cablgram from the owner-skipper, Mr R. Tilley. They also said the entry could not be allowed at the last minute as measurements for the handicap rating could not be taken in time before the start of the race.