Sydney to Hobart race record-holder Wild Oats XI has been lifted from the water for hurried keel repairs ahead of the Boxing Day race start.
An underwater inspection of the supermaxi's hull showed the keel was damaged when it hooked onto a buoy and line attached to a fish trap.
Skipper Mark Richards says while the damage is only superficial it could cause a loss of speed.
Wild Oats XI is chasing an unprecedented fifth consecutive line honours win.
