The Rolex Sydney Hobart is a 628nm yacht race which begins in Sydney Harbour and finishes in Hobart.

Each December on Boxing Day you can see the world's greatest yachts charging through Sydney Heads as they take part in the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.

Once through The Heads, they turn south knowing they are casting their fate to the might of the great Southern Ocean and the winds of the Roaring Forties. The 628-nautical-mile-course is described as one of the most gruelling ocean races in the world.

Since 1945, this blue water classic has thrilled Australians, and thousands line Sydney Harbour or form farewell flotillas to cheer the departing yachters.

Days later, in Hobart, the excitement builds as news of who will be the first boat to arrive comes...

Start Friday 26 December 2008 at Kings Pier Marina and finishes Thursday 01 January 2009 at Hobart.

The Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race will start at 1.00pm and will be broadcast live on Channel 7 from 12.20pm until 2.00pm.