This is the first Volvo 60 (previously Whitbread 60) to enter the Telstra Sydney to Hobart yacht race. Formerly Swedish Match, she finished 3rd in the 1997 – 98 Whitbread Race and 1st in this year's round Denmark Race. In a joint venture, local yachtsmen and 18 foot skiff champion Michael Spies has teamed up with a largely international crew.