CYCA Immediate Past Commodore Matt Allen’s Jones 70 Ichi Ban is always well campaigned in this tough 628 nautical mile race. After losing her mast on the return journey to Sydney from Hobart last year, Ichi Ban has spent most of the year on the hardstand at Azzura Marine in Newcastle and has recently installed a new rig. Ichi Ban’s best results include second across the line to Wild Oats XI in 2006 and third over the line in 2007 and 2008. She also took line honours in the 2008 Brisbane Gladstone Race. In the right conditions this modified Volvo 70 is capable of reaching speeds in excess of 35 knots - or 65 kilometres per hour.

Interviews with the crew of Ichi Ban:

Matt Allen - 28 December