Champion again! The Beneteau First shines in the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race

January 21, 2013, Shanghai – The exciting news from the recently closed Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, the Beneteau First 40 “Lunchtime Legend” steered by the owner Robert Roberson has gained the championship in category IRC 3. After 40 years of competitive sailing completing a number of Sydney Hobart races, Bob has proudly announced his retirement from racing. “It was mentally and physically a tough race”, said Bob, “We knew we had a good boat, and that we’d always have the speed to challenge for the lead!”

It is also a big triumph for Beneteau which again proves the leading position in the sailing world. The brand’s yachts dominated the fleet in Division 3 with 9 out of the 14 entrants, and the French marque took 4 of the top 5 positions. In Division 2, the Beneteau First 47.7 Kioni came in a credible 4th.

About the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race: The Australian Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race has grown over the decades, since the inaugural race in 1945, to become one of the top three offshore yacht races in the world; it now attracts maxi yachts from all around the globe. The Race is known for the high winds and difficult seas. Even though it is held in the Australian summer, "southerly buster" storms often make the Sydney–Hobart race cold, bumpy, and very challenging for all crews.

About Beneteau First range: The First Range is born in 1977 by launching the legendary First 30. Ever since, First has created a unique spirit in the sailing world – courage, challenge and distinction. In a First, every innovation delivers greater cruising pleasure and even more impressive race performance: it’s the pedigree and the reference in the market for more than 35 years.