LOCAL sailor Dave Castleton had a festive season to remember, testing his mettle once more in the Sydney to Hobart yacht race.

Commodore of the Queens Lake Sailing Club, Dave received a late call up as Watch Captain aboard “Flat White” after his usual yacht, “Inner Circle”, was unable to participate.

The 2024 Sydney to Hobart, which started on Boxing Day, was the 79th running of the internationally renowned ocean race.

Despite beautiful scenes of white sails crisscrossing the sparkling blue waters of Sydney Harbour, the annual race is considered one of the toughest ocean races on the world’s sailing calendar.

The 628-nautical mile event kicks off in Sydney Harbour, tracking a course down the south-east coast of Australia and across the perilous waters of Bass Strait before culminating in a final stretch along the River Derwent to Hobart.

Dave, a seasoned sailor with six previous Sydney to Hobart races under his belt, was well aware of the weather conditions that lay ahead and the associated risks.

“After the first night we knew there were going to be a lot of wipe-outs,” said Dave.

“Everybody was running with the wind and that’s the most likely time to crash the boat.

“So we took it very conservatively to make sure that we looked after the boat and everybody on board, especially after hearing about the tragic incidents that occurred during the race.”

The race can be a difficult experience for family back on land too.

“It’s always a concern when they are out in the ocean competing without any means of communication,” said Chantelle, Dave’s wife.

“However, I have immense faith in Dave’s sailing prowess, which provides me with a sense of comfort.”

Despite frustrating detours, drenched clothing, wet sleeping conditions and tempestuous seas, Dave’s passion for sailing remains resolute.

He describes the Sydney to Hobart as an “incredible challenge” that allows him to push his limits.

“Being part of a team and contributing to something greater than myself is truly rewarding,” he said.

“But most of all, nothing beats sharing oysters from Dunbogan in celebration after crossing the Bass Strait.”

By Kim AMBROSE