The Sydney to Hobart yacht race, nicknamed "hell on high water" has begun with maxi Brindabella leading the fleet out of the heads.

The 630-mile race has attracted 114 boats from around the world.

The Swedish Nicorette then overtook Brindabella as the yachts progressed further.

Two of the 12-metre yachts, She's Apples II, the overall Sydney-Hobart winner in 1991, and Weowa Winner, were forced to return home.

The two are reported to have collided just outside the heads but the skipper of She's Apples II's said a power boat had caused the damage.

A crew member suffered a slight concussion after She's Apples II was holed, while Weowna Winner was believed to be more seriously damaged.

The spectator fleet, which at about 3,000 craft was the largest for several years, hampered many of the yachts near the sea mark, one mile outside the heads.

One of the most impressive starters among the smaller craft was the new 14-metre Japanese entry Summer Boy, which rounded the first buoy in fifth place.

About 1,200 sailors, including junior media mogul Lachlan Murdoch and rugby international George Gregan, have been warned to expect a fierce thunderstorm.

Heavy rain and strong southerly winds are also forecast for the early part of the race.
 

Back to top | BBC News Home | BBC Homepage	©