At today’s close of entries for the 2006 Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race the fleet size stands at 83.

Taking a look at the competition Geoff Ross’ new Yendys could be a serious challenger for the Tattersalls Cup (overall winner trophy). This brand-new grand prix boat yacht was built in China and arrived in Sydney by ship from Hong Kong last Saturday. She is currently being assembled.

Other boats to keep an eye on during the 2006 event are Trevor Taylor’s two-time former overall winner Ausmaid who left Fremantle Yacht Club in Western Australia on Tuesday for the delivery trip to Sydney, Sean Langman’s Maluka which is being launched this Saturday at Woolwich Dock, Grant Wharington’s Skandia which is preparing to leave Melbourne soon, and Maximus and ABN Amro. These two, preparing to challenge the local boats for line honours, will arrive by ship from Malta.

From the original 87 boats nominated by the close of applications, four have withdrawn – Peter Mosely’s Local Hero from Sydney, Phil Chisholm’s NZ boat Compass Point, Michael Cranitch’s Broomstick from Sydney and Michael Graham and Darren Cooney’s Inner Circle from Lake Macquarie.

The race will start on Boxing Day – Tuesday 26 December – in Sydney Harbour at 1300 from two start lines off Nielsen Park.