Stranded in Esperance a real test of perseverance

For some lucky skippers, heading out to the start of the Rolex Sydney Hobart on Boxing Day can be as convenient as stepping on to their boat berthed at one of the Sydney Harbour marinas and motoring to the starting area.

While all have to complete the rigorous entry process and prepare their crew and boat for the often treacherous Bass Strait crossing, by the time start day rolls around, one West Australian skipper will no doubt feel like he’s already completed the tough 628 nautical mile ocean classic.