Founded in 1945, the classic Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is one of the greatest offshore yacht races in the world. Very few other sailing races attract the attention paid to this event. Only the America's Cup and Volvo Ocean races attract more public attention. Running under the auspices of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA), the race has impacted the world of offshore yacht racing with its improvements to communications, vessel design, and ship safety.
