During the Sydney-Hobart yacht race, two participants died in separate incidents shortly after each other. Both individuals, aged 55 and 65, were Australian and were fatally struck by the boom during the race.
The annual Sydney-Hobart race covers over 1100 kilometers, running from Australia’s largest city to the capital of Tasmania. This year, 104 boats started the race yesterday.
Around midnight local time, an incident occurred on the Flying Fish Arctos, where crew members unsuccessfully attempted to resuscitate a colleague. Over two hours later, a similar incident happened on the Bowline, where another crew member was injured, possibly breaking a shoulder.
The organizers expressed their condolences at a press conference in Sydney. “The sailing world is a close-knit community.
About a thousand sailors participate in this race, and losing two is terrible.” Australian Prime Minister Albanese called the race an Australian tradition, describing the loss of two lives as “heartbreaking” during what should have been a great moment. The Sydney-Hobart race is known for its danger.
Despite being held during the Australian summer, the open sea course can be treacherous. This year, strong winds and high waves were present, and the organizers had predicted a challenging night for participants.
So far, sixteen yachts have withdrawn due to various issues, including broken masts, torn sails, or technical problems. Remaining participants are expected to arrive in Hobart later today or early tomorrow.
This is not the first time fatalities have occurred in the race, which has been held since 1945. In 1998, six people died when five yachts sank in severe weather.
Minimum age and experience requirements were implemented afterward.
Source: NOS