Rolex Sydney Hobart: Giacomo crowned race winner

Hobart, Tasmania - Jim Delegat’s Giacomo is confirmed as the overall winner of the 2016 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. Giacomo, a 70-ft yacht from New Zealand, becomes the first overseas yacht to win the race since 2007. Victory is reward for an excellent and consistent race and is a triumph of persistence. Onboard as navigator the Italian prosailor Francesco Mongelli.

Two years ago, Giacomo was forced to retire from the Rolex Sydney Hobart after she dismasted off the Tasmanian coast. After a year rebuilding the boat, the crew returned for the 72nd edition of the race determined to make amends for that disappointment. After finishing just under two hours behind line honours winner Perpetual LOYAL, and registering the second fastest time in the race’s history, overall victory was confirmed when the pursuing yachts hit fickle conditions in Storm Bay and along the Derwent River. Reward for this outstanding success came in the shape of the Tattersall’s Cup and a Rolex Oyster Perpetual Yacht-Master 40.