Supermaxi Comanche claims another record in Sydney to Hobart omen

As omens go it’s a pretty good one for a crew of sailors hoping to win the Sydney to Hobart yacht race.

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As omens go it’s a pretty good one.

Sydney supermaxi Comanche has claimed line honours in the final lead-up race to the Sydney to Hobart and a race record to boot.

The last yacht to achieve the line and race record double in the Bird Island race - Stephen Ainsworth’s Loki - went on to win the Sydney to Hobart overall in 2011.

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Skipper Jim Cooney’s focus is claiming the line honours in the 74th edition of the Sydney to Hobart after last year awarded the fastest time honours and new race record when Wild Oats incurred a time penalty which dropped the multiple winner back into second place.

Supermaxi Comanche on her way to victory in last year’s Sydney to Hobart: Pic: Stefano Gattini/Rolex.

To this end Cooney has raced every major offshore event before the Boxing Day race to bring both his crew and boat up to speed.

Last year he had only days to familiarise himself with the yacht after buying it in mid December.

“The big change this year for us is all about our preparation,.’’ Cooney said.

“We have all be working really hard on the boat and our sailing and I think that has been the difference.’’

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In her lead-up to the Sydney to Hobart defence, Comanche has now won four major training races for three new race records.

The Bird Island milestone follows on from the 100-footer setting race records in both the Newcastle Bass Island and Cabbage Tree Island races.

Also showing top form ahead of he Sydney to Hobart who won the Bird Island race overall;; and will take four wins and a second into her Hobart defence,