Sydney to Hobart sailors Nick Smith and Roy Quaden honoured in memorial

ABC NEWS (Australia)

It was a tragedy that left a dark shadow over this year’s Sydney to Hobart yacht race. Today an emotional memorial service was held in Hobart to pay tribute to the two sailors who lost their lives during the opening night of this year’s edition.

Transcript

00:00United in grief for two sailors who didn't make it to Hobart.

00:07Today we gather with heavy hearts to honour two cherished members of our sailing community.

00:16Nick Smith and Roy Quaden tragically lost their lives after suffering fatal head injuries

00:21as the fleet headed south on the first night of the race.

00:25Both men embraced the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that defines our sport.

00:32In an emotional farewell on Hobart's waterfront, community members came to pay their respects

00:39as wreaths were placed on a pontoon and flowers scattered into the water.

00:44As we bid farewell, let us take a moment to reflect on their courage, their passion for the sea

00:51and the joy they found in the endless horizon.

00:54The ceremony concluding with a minute's silence.

01:01The sound of a bell marking the end of the service and the enormity of the tragedy

01:06for friends, family and the wider sailing community.

01:10We know Nick from Bowline, he comes from our club, the Royal South Australian Yacht Squadron.

01:15He was a mate, such always a happy smiling face.

01:19It's tragic when we lose a member of our sailing fraternity

01:24and we'll see what safety improvements can be made and see if we can avoid things in the future.

01:31Amid the tragedy, there's also been triumph.

01:34Crews on the winning yachts today receiving trophies and medallions for their achievements.

01:41Almost 70 yachts have now completed this gruelling race.

01:45The remainder of the fleet is expected to arrive here in Hobart in the early hours of New Year's Day.

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