Kim Westcott, 24 Dec 2017, 10:50 PM UTC
Excellent conditions for the Sydney to Hobart
With the winds turning easterly in the morning it could be hard work getting out of the heads on Boxing Day, but the winds will shift again and we will see an exciting race unfold.
For spectators in Sydney, Boxing Day will be a mild and cloudy affair, with light morning showers expected to dissipate before midday.
By Tuesday evening, the winds will tend to a more favourable northeasterly and begin to pick up, making it a fast trip down the NSW coastline.
Winds will start to increase when the sailors get to 'the paddock', otherwise known as the Bass Strait, but they will still be in a tailwind.
Winds will remain moderate on Wednesday and early Thursday as the competitors slide down Tasmania's east coast before taking a right hand turn at Tasman Island. The winds will shift from southwesterly direction by Thursday evening as a front crosses the state.
For those working or watching at Sullivans Cove or at the Royal Yacht Club, both Wednesday and Thursday will be uncharacteristically t-shirt and shorts weather, in the high 20's for most of the day.
While showers are a risk on Thursday, it won't be nearly enough to dampen celebrations.
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