The Sydney to Hobart yacht race has been marred by tragedy, with authorities confirming the identities of two sailors who lost their lives in the grueling competition.
Nick Smith: An Experienced Yachtsman
Nick Smith, 65, from South Australia, was killed when he was hit by the main sheet and thrown across the boat, hitting his head on a winch. Despite attempts to revive him, Smith died at around 2am on Friday. The incident occurred on the yacht Bowline, which was escorted to Bateman’s Bay by police boat Nemesis.
Smith was an experienced yachtsman who had competed in many Sydney to Hobart races. His skipper, Ian Roberts, described him as a “great friend and a very fine and experienced yachtsman” who had completed four previous Sydney Hobart’s, numerous yacht deliveries, and the around the world ‘Clipper Race Yacht’ race.
Roy Quaden: A Western Australian Native
Roy Quaden, 55, from Western Australia, died on the yacht Flying Fish Arctos after being struck by the boom. The incident occurred around 30 nautical miles east/south-east of Ulladulla. Despite CPR attempts, Quaden could not be saved, and the yacht was diverted to Jervis Bay.
Rough Conditions Wreak Havoc
NSW Marine Area Command Superintendent Joseph McNulty described the conditions as “violent” and said the vessels were changing sails at the time of the incidents. “That creates a different set of circumstances. The hull moves, the sails move, and the booms are moving. It’s a technical change of sail at sea.”
Tributes Flow for the Deceased Sailors
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese extended his condolences to the sailors’ loved ones, saying it was “heartbreaking” that two lives had been lost during the race. Tributes have been pouring in for both Smith and Quaden, with their fellow competitors and friends mourning their loss.
Racing Continues Amidst Tragedy
Despite the tragedy, the race continues, with competitors facing 25-knot northerly winds and speeds of 25 to 30 knots. A total of 21 boats have retired due to damage or equipment failure so far. Conditions are expected to worsen as vessels head toward Bass Strait and Tasmania.