Local yachts under pressure as overseas boats vie for Sydney to Hobart honours

With three-time winner Ichi Ban not competing and a favourable weather forecast, a crowd of challengers is likely for what is shaping up to be a fast race

Australia's recent domination of Sydney to Hobart overall honours is under threat from a high-quality contingent of overseas boats in this year's race.

With handicap colossus Ichi Ban not racing this year, Australia's recent ironclad grip on overall Sydney to Hobart honours could be loosened, with a number of high-quality overseas boats competing.