The Yachts

Wicked

Wicked

 

Wicked was launched in 2009 and is a sistership to 2009 Rolex Sydney Hobart winner, Two True, which she finished second to that year, less than an hour behind the winner after the two had virtually match raced the whole 628 nautical miles. She raced again in 2012 and finished 25th overall, one place behind Two True again. The Beneteau 40 last raced to Hobart in 2016 with a 25th overall finish and fourth in Division 3.

The father and son team of Mike and Mark have successfully raced together across a number of yachts over the last 35 years, winning over 20 Sandringham Yacht Club Championships. At 76, Mike insists that this is definitely his last Rolex Sydney Hobart, but Mark confirms that he has heard this before. This year, Wicked has undergone some major updates to bring the boat up to peak condition, including strengthening the mast; installing a new spreader system; upgrading instruments and navigation systems; new mainsail and jibs; and the replacement of various fittings, deck gear and halyards. With an experienced, close-knit crew assembled for this year’s race, Wicked is ready to give this one our best shot.

 

Competitor Details

Yacht Name Wicked
Sail Number SM4
Owner Mike Welsh
Skipper Mike Welsh (4) & Mark Welsh (6)
Crew C Disney (9), D Poole (2), M Rogers (1), K Goss (2), D Ford (6), A Ghattas (3), C Hauser
State VIC
Club SYC
Type Beneteau First 40
Designer Farr
Builder Beneteau
Construction Fibreglass
LOA 12.24
Beam 3.89
Draft 2.48