Sydney to Hobart yacht race: Two sailors die after poor weather conditions plague annual competition

The famous yacht race – known as one of the world's most difficult – has taken place annually since 1945 - (Brendon Thorne / Getty Images)

Two sailors have died during a famous yacht race in Australia, with their deaths being blamed on poor weather conditions.

Taking place annually since 1945, the Sydney to Hobart yacht race is widely considered one of the world’s most difficult. With a 722-mile route from Australia to Tasmania, participants cross the Tasman Sea and the Bass Strait – the latter of which is renowned for its high winds.