One evening in May 1945, a small group of Sydney sailing enthusiasts decided that their planned post-Christmas cruise south to Hobart would be more enjoyable if they made it a race. And so began the story of a contest that quickly became ranked among the world's premier offshore racing events - a race that demands both immense physical and mental endurance of the individual sailor along with the coordinated effort of a close-knit team. It's a challenge where one mistake can lead to defeat, while success can deliver national and international acclaim. In its 75th year, the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race has become an icon of Australia's summer sport, ranking in public interest with such national events as the Melbourne Cup, the Australian Open tennis and the Boxing Day cricket test. And the 628-nautical mile course is often described as the most gruelling long ocean race in the world. The Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is the story of one of the world's greatest sporting challenges, an event where men and women from all walks of life are inspired and challenged by the beauty and power of nature.