At 43, Thorpe is embracing the challenges of offshore sailing, beginning with his debut in the Cabbage Tree Island race. This event serves as the final major offshore competition before the 80th edition of the Sydney-Hobart race, scheduled to commence on December 26. The 630-nautical-mile journey is renowned for its demanding conditions, testing the endurance and skill of all participants.

Thorpe expressed his enthusiasm for this new venture, highlighting the mental and physical demands distinct from his swimming career. He views this opportunity as a chance to push his boundaries and contribute to an iconic Australian sporting tradition.

LawConnect, a formidable 100-foot supermaxi, is aiming for its third consecutive victory in the Sydney-Hobart race. The vessel's crew is optimistic about defending their title, especially with the addition of Thorpe, whose athletic prowess and competitive spirit are expected to be valuable assets.

The Sydney-Hobart Yacht Race is a cornerstone of Australia's maritime sports calendar, attracting global attention and participation. Thorpe's involvement is anticipated to draw increased interest to the event, bridging the gap between aquatic sports disciplines and inspiring a broader audience to engage with sailing.

As the race approaches, the collaboration between Thorpe and the seasoned sailors of LawConnect will be closely watched. This partnership exemplifies the dynamic nature of sports, where skills and experiences from different disciplines can converge to create new and exciting narratives.