Some sailors chase comfort. Others chase the hard things.

For Ella Sagnol, Sailing Manager at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, lining up on the start line of the 80th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race is about exactly that – choosing the challenge, and ticking off a dream that’s been building since childhood.

“I’ve always liked doing the hard things,” Ella says. “And the satisfaction I get from completing something tough. The Hobart has always been one to tick off the bucket list.”

Ella Sagnol (the one waving). 2024 RNZYS Helly Hansen Three Kings Race. Photo: Suellen Hurling / Live Sail Die

Like so many Kiwi and Aussie sailors, the Sydney Hobart was woven into Ella’s upbringing long before she ever thought she’d race it herself.

“Probably since I was an early teen,” she says. “Watching the start with my dad every Boxing Day.”

Fast-forward a few years and that familiar Harbour spectacle looks very different when you’re standing on the dock at CYCA, doing those last minute jobs and quietly wondering what Bass Strait is going to throw your way.

Ella’s opportunity to race aboard Brian Petersen’s V5 came together in early 2024, when she joined the crew ahead of the Three Kings Race – a baptism by fire that didn’t quite go to plan.

“We sadly had to pull out four hours in due to a breakage,” she recalls. “I remember the night before that race feeling very nervous. The forecast for the crossing from Cape Reinga to the Kings looked pretty nasty.”

TP52 ‘V5″ after the start of the 2024 Helly Hansen Three Kings Race. Photo: Suellen Hurling / Live Sail Die

But setbacks often builds the strongest foundations. Since then, Ella has clocked serious miles aboard V5, including her first ocean crossing from Auckland to Nouméa.

“That crossing built my confidence in myself, the boat, and the crew,” she says. “I’m feeling quite at peace heading into the Hobart, knowing we’ll work through whatever’s ahead as a team.”

That quiet confidence is often what separates good offshore campaigns from great ones.

Being the Sailing Manager at Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron, has given Ella some insights into a race like the Hobart.

Balancing offshore racing with her role as Sailing Manager gives Ella a unique perspective on what it really takes to get to a start line like this.

“Get onto your admin early,” she says. “Divide the tasks amongst the crew and lean on people’s strengths.”

The Sydney Hobart isn’t just about the race itself – it’s the months (and years) of preparation behind it.

Ella Sagnol and the V5 team

“It takes a hell of a lot of work to get a boat ready,” she says. “We’ve done a lot of events this year, and the learnings as a team have made a massive difference.”

With maxis charging, spectators lining Sydney Harbour, and one of the most iconic starts in sailing unfolding around them, Ella’s start strategy is refreshingly simple.

“Don’t get caught up in the chaos,” she says. “Noses clean and clear air – which will be a challenge given we are starting on the second line.”

“It’s a very short runway to clear the Sow and Pigs,” she explains. “So our position on the line needs to give us the best chance to navigate that cleanly.”

Offshore racing isn’t just about sails and strategy – it’s also about food and snacks!

Favourite freeze-dried meal? “Back Country onboard — probably the chicken carbonara or sweet and sour lamb.”

Best rail snack? “Beef jerky.”

What Comes After Hobart?

Once the dock lines are tied up in Hobart, Ella’s focus shifts back to shore – and to the next chapter.

The main goal is to “Recover financially from a massive year of yachting,” she laughs.

Upon finishing the Sydney Hobart, Ella heads back to Auckland.

“It’s time to get back to the real world and club land,” she says. “There are some really exciting events coming up for RNZYS through 2026 and 2027, and I’m looking forward to focusing on event management.”

The experience gained offshore won’t be left at sea.

“This year has been a huge learning curve, both personally and professionally,” Ella says. “I’m excited to bring those learnings back to the club.”

Other RNZYS members at the CYCA ahead of the Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.

From watching the start with her dad to sailing across the line herself, Ella Sagnol’s Hobart story is a reminder of why this race matters – and why sailors keep coming back for more.

Doing hard things is hard, but the satisfaction that comes from seeing them through is worth the pain and punishment.