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The running of the 2005 Marblehead to Halifax Ocean Race (MHOR) is preceded by a long and prestigious history. The race began in 1905 as an informal competition among sailors from the Boston, Eastern, and New York Yacht Clubs. The race was run sporadically until 1939, when the Boston Yacht Club (BYC) joined with the Royal Nova Scotia Yacht Squadron (RNSYS) to formalize a biennial event. Since that time, the Marblehead to Halifax Ocean Race has run regularly on alternate years from the Newport Bermuda Race, as one of the pre-eminent ocean races of the North Atlantic.

The 2001 Halifax Race attracted over 110 boats, racing in five different divisions: International Measurement System (IMS), Performance Handicap Racing Fleet (PHRF) Racing Class, PHRF Cruising Class, Multihulls and Classic Yachts. Over 20 perpetual trophies are awarded, recognizing many special accomplishments including team challenges, the fastest double handed yacht, and the fastest all-women's yacht, in addition to division and class winners.

The 360 nautical mile race course runs slightly north of due east when leaving Marblehead, Massachusetts, USA and sailing past Cape Ann. Early tactical decisions and diligent attention to sail trim allow yachts to make major gains or losses during these early hours of the race. During the night, the fleet separates across the wide course to Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

Early decisions have to be made regarding positioning for crossing the Bay of Fundy. The tacticians all try to determine if the wind will hold, increase or diminish so they can steer the course to put them in position to take advantage of the tremendous tidal currents.

Land is a welcome sight after passing Brazil Rock and sailing up the coast of Nova Scotia. This represents the final stretch of the race, where yachts play current and wind hoping to slip ahead of the competition.

This year HILL and Titan 12 came out on top, crossing the finish line 36 hours and 59 minutes after leaving Marblehead to take the Grand Prix Trophy and help the USA to take the Race Committee Trophy in their national competition with Canada.