The women behind the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race

Behind one of the world's most iconic offshore yacht races is a team of people whose dedication, leadership and expertise bring it to life.

Two of those people are Justine Kirkjian, CEO of the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia (CYCA), and Tara Blanc Ramos, the club's Sailing Manager. Their stories show another side of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race, away from the spectacle of the start and the fleet heading south.

Their work covers the year-round planning and coordination that make the race possible, along with the people and passion driving it forward. It is a look at the women working behind the scenes, their contributions to offshore sailing and the effort that makes this extraordinary event possible.

The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is organised by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia and starts on Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day, 26 December 2026.