Sydney to Hobart tragedy: Two sailors lose lives in storm
During the 79th edition of the Sydney to 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, the boom struck both sailors 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 said 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 favorites "Master Lock Comanche," withdrew from this year's edition of the 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 the day after Christmas, and the finish line is in Hobart, Tasmania.
Sailors cover 390 nautical miles, which is about 726 kilometers. It's one of the most prestigious events in the sailing world.
Source: PAP. WP News, X, Facebook
