The names of the two sailors who died in tragic incidents during the Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race overnight have been revealed.
Roy Quaden, 55, from Western Australia, was a crew member on Flying Fish Arctos when he was struck by the yacht’s boom around 30 nautical miles east of Ulladulla.
Nick Smith, 65, from South Australia, was a crew member on Bowline when he was also struck by his yacht’s boom around 30nm east of Batemans Bay.
It is understood fellow crew members on both yachts attempted CPR but were unable to revive the sailors.
Both yachts have since retired from the race, along with 19 others.
Race organisers said their “number one priority” is the safety of all competitors and have arranged counselling support for the affected crews.
“We extend our deepest sympathy to the family and friends of the two crew members,” they said.
“Our thoughts are also with the crews and our sailing community affected by these tragic incidents.”
