Tragedy at sea: Sydney-Hobart race claims two lives
During the 79th edition of the Sydney-Hobart race, two sailors lost their lives. They were crew members of the boats "Flying Fish Arctos" and "Bowline". Due to unstable weather, many crews decided to withdraw from the race.
According to the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia, both sailors were struck by the boom during a storm. Despite resuscitation attempts by fellow crew members, they could not be saved. "Our thoughts are with the crews, families, and friends of the victims," the organizers wrote in a statement.
This is the first fatal incident during the race in over 25 years. The last similar tragedy occurred in 1998, when six sailors died in storms. In subsequent years, regulations were changed to enhance the safety of the event.
Due to unstable weather, many crews, including the favourites "Master Lock Comanche", withdrew from this year's race.
Tradition and challenge
The race, organized by the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia and the Royal Yacht Club of Tasmania, has been held since 1945. It starts in Sydney on Boxing Day, and the finish line is in Hobart, Tasmania.
Sailors cover 390 nautical miles, which is about 720 kilometres. It's one of the most prestigious events in the sailing world.
Source: PAP. WP News, X, Facebook
