SAILING: Race favourite Wild Oats XI were on track to smash their own record for the Sydney to Hobart yacht race as they crossed the treacherous Bass Strait yesterday.

The Mark Richards-skippered super-maxi was being pushed along by strong northerly winds and reaching speeds of 24 knots with about 240 nautical miles to reach the finish line in Tasmania.

They were about 33 nautical miles ahead of last year’s winner Ragamuffin Loyal.

Wild Oats set the record of one day, 18 hours, 40 minutes and 10 seconds in 2005 when they not only took line honours but also won the overall handicap title as well.

Wild Oats are seeking their sixth victory in the 628-nautical mile classic.