John sailed the Sydney to Hobart yacht race with his father. Now he’s passing on the tradition to his sons

The crew are all smiles before the race. From left to right: Simon Wilcox, Arthur Wilcox, John Townley and Matthew Townley. Photograph: Mostafa Rachwani/The Guardian

To John Townley, this year’s Sydney to Hobart race means so much more than just a chance to see his new boat in action.

This year, 35 years after he first sailed the race with his father, as a 16-year-old, he is now taking his two sons, 20-year-old Max and 18-year-old Matthew.