2 dead in separate incidents during treacherous Sydney-Hobart yacht race

Two sailors have died in separate incidents in the treacherous Sydney to Hobart blue water classic, organisers said on Friday, while race favourite Comanche was forced to retire.

Both crew members – on Flying Fish Arctos and Bowline – were hit by booms as the yachts were making their way south along the New South Wales coast amid wild weather after setting off from Sydney Harbour on Boxing Day.

Other crew tried to revive them, but were unsuccessful.

“As these incidents are being dealt with by the Water Police and all family members are yet to be contacted, we cannot provide further details at this stage,” the race committee said in a brief statement.

“Our thoughts are with the crews, family and friends of the deceased.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese paid tribute to the sailors who died.