Yachting: Konica Minolta fails Sydney to Hobart weigh-in

The New Zealand super maxi yacht Konica Minolta has failed the weigh-in for the Sydney to Hobart yacht race, effectively ruling its certificate invalid.

Three of the four top contenders for line honours did not conform to the weight on their certificates, with only brand new maxi Nicorette passing muster.

However, Konica Minolta, Skandia and AAPT are all expected to sort out their weigh-in problems in time to take their place in the 117 strong fleet.

The three super maxis, Skandia, Konica Minolta (the bookies' favourite) and the new Nicorette are likely to be engaged in the battle for line honours.

They are at the cutting edge of ocean racing technology and among the fastest sailing craft in the world.

Skandia, skippered by Grant Wharington, and the New Zealand flier Konica Minolta (previously named Zana) duelled throughout last year's race, with Skandia winning the final dash up the Derwent River by a mere 14 minutes.

The two have continued their intense rivalry since then, especially since Konica Minolta returned from a refit in Wellington.

However they will not get things all their own way this year, as they have to contend with Nicorette, which launched only nine days before the race.

The Sydney to Hobart race starts on Boxing Day and for 60 years has been one of the world's great bluewater classics.

- NEWSTALK ZB and AAP