Official announcement from the Cruising Yacht Club

Two Sailors, Nick Smith (65) and Roy Quaden (55), Die in Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race Amid Gale-Force Winds

Dec 27, 2024, 01:04 AM

The annual Sydney to Hobart yacht race, known for its challenging conditions, has been marred by tragedy as two sailors died during the event. The race commenced on December 26, 2024, with gale-force winds and high seas creating treacherous conditions. Both sailors were struck by sail booms in separate incidents. The deceased have been identified as Nick Smith, 65, from South Australia, and Roy Quaden, 55, from Western Australia. Smith was aboard the yacht Bowline, while Quaden was navigating the Flying Fish Arctos. The Cruising Yacht Club has faced scrutiny over its decision to proceed with the race amid severe weather warnings, and an investigation is currently underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the fatalities. This incident marks the first deaths in the race in 26 years, highlighting the inherent dangers of this prestigious maritime competition.