A man from the Isle of Wight who was reported overboard during a cross-Channel race between Cowes and Deauville on Friday (26th May) has not yet been recovered, with the search now stood down.
The competitor – believed to be a 68-year-old man from the Isle of Wight – was reported overboard at around 21:30 on Friday evening around 15 miles from the finish line in the Seine Bay, off the North Coast of France.
2 helicopters as well as various French search and rescue vessels were said to have quickly arrived at the scene and were joined in the search by fellow competitor yachts.
These efforts were unsuccessful but the search was resumed by helicopter at first light on Saturday morning. However, the operation was then suspended and later stood down with it presumed that the 68-year-old has died at sea.
The yacht has been taken to Le Havre.
According to Yachting World, the Junior Offshore Group, which runs the Cowes-Deauville event, has said in a statement:
“JOG Yacht Racing are deeply saddened to announce that a competitor was reported overboard during the Cowes to Deauville race on Friday 26th May at approximately 21:30. The incident occurred some 15 miles from the finish in the Seine Bay off the Northern coast of France.”
“Following a Mayday call to the French rescue services, air rescue and lifeboats, together with nearby vessels and a number of competing boats, assisted in a search. At the time of this statement, no person has yet been recovered.”
Article continues below this advertisement “We are cooperating with French authorities, and all concerned in establishing the full details and assisting with enquiries. The competitor’s next of kin has been informed. Our thoughts and most sincere condolences are with the family at this difficult time.”
It is the 2nd man overboard incident to have occurred in cross-channel races this weekend, with a man from Greater Manchester found deceased in a separate race from the South Coast.
Very sad, but at least the guy died obviously doing what he loved to do.
This wonderful man is my father. He will be deeply missed, and is dearly loved by so many. He was a remarkable person who achieved so much in his life and did so much good for others – we are all so proud of him. From myself, my lovely mother, and all of his extended family we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to each and every person who tried so hard through the night to search for him. It gives us great comfort at this difficult time and we can’t thank you all enough. X
Karen truly sorry for you and your Mother. Decent people who are nice are an awful loss to everyone who knew them, but hopefully your closeness as a family will help you at this awful time.
Truly it does get easier eventually, and a loving family will go a long way to ease the hard times.
Karen, I am very sorry to learn of this tragic news. He was a lovely man who brought light and a sense of fun into many lives. My sincere condolences to your family. He will be fondly remembered.
This comment is beneath contempt.