Seven-time world surfing champion Layne Beachley will be tackling new waves on Boxing Day, joining the Loyal team en route from Sydney to Hobart.
The star surfer but novice sailor returns to skipper Anthony Bell's team 16 years after they were second across the line in the blue-water classic.
The 2010 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race was far from a relaxing cruise for Beachley, who battled seasickness for 36 of the race’s 59 hours.
“Sailing with Loyal in 2010 was one of the most extraordinary experiences of my life," the surfing legend said.
"It was brutal, exhilarating, humbling and unforgettable. Sixteen years later, the opportunity to be part of this incredible campaign again is something I just had to be a part of."
While being the fastest boat is the ultimate goal for the team, their official "Loyal Lady'' has extra motivation for her return appearance on the supermaxi.
“At 54 I’m very conscious of what it means, both mentally and physically, to take on something this epic, and that’s precisely why I wanted to do it," the Australian Sports Hall of Famer said.
"I want to keep showing women, young and old, that our age, gender and other people’s expectations must never define what we’re capable of.
"If we can help raise vital funds for sick children while doing something as exhilarating as taking on the Sydney-Hobart, that’s a legacy I’m incredibly proud to be part of.”
Loyal will again be supporting the Humpty Dumpty Foundation, which provides infant medical equipment to hospitals nationwide.
The cause is incredibly important for the team's owner and skipper Bell, who is delighted to bring Beachley back on board.
“She is an Australian sporting legend, an absolute champion at every level, a great mate and someone who brings so much strength, heart, determination and energy to everything she does," Bell said.
"Having her back with us in 2026 just feels right. She knows what it takes to push yourself beyond your limits, and understands that this campaign has always been about something much bigger than sailing.”
Beachley is part of a star-studded team, with sailing master Tom Slingsby joining already-confirmed celebrity sailors Phil Waugh and Anthony Minichello in returning to the Loyal line-up.
