Sailor Sean Langman is attempting to break the current world record of 49.09 knots (90.9 kph) using a vessel that is half sailboat and half sailplane, nicknamed a Wot Rocket.

Australia last held the title in 1993.

The team were out in the waters off Kurnell this morning with the forecast predicting westerly wind speeds of 15-20 knots, trying to get enough speed to lift the Wot Rocket up out of the water on its hydrofoils.

But, regardless of today's results, it still could be some time before the Wot Rocket team makes it into the record books. They are still waiting to hear from the World Sailing Speed Record Council on whether they can take their own time using a Trimble GPS receiver.

See Thursday's Leader for more.