A participant believed to taking part in the Royal Escape Race lost his life after falling from a sailing boat in the English Channel. The incident occurred during the renowned race, which commenced on Thursday in Brighton Marina and covered a challenging 67-nautical-mile course from Brighton Marina to Fécamp.
Authorities in France were alerted at approximately 2 p.m to the incident on Friday, May 26th as the incident occurred in French waters. The French coastguard immediately launched a local coastguard response team to the scene in an effort to assist with the emergency.
The identity of the victim has not been disclosed pending notification of the next of kin. It is believed that the fatal incident occurred while the sailing boat was actively participating in the race, sailing through the waters of the English Channel.
In response to the tragic accident, the Sussex Yacht Club expressed deep sorrow and extended their heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased sailor. The club is working closely with the local police, the Maritime and Coastguard Agency, and the Marine Accident Investigation Bureau to provide full cooperation and support in their ongoing inquiries.
In a social media post, the Sussex Yacht Club shared their condolences and commitment to assisting the authorities: “We are deeply saddened by the tragic loss of one of our fellow sailors yesterday. Sussex Yacht Club is working with the Police, Maritime and Coastguard Agency, and the Marine Accident Investigation Bureau to assist with their inquiries. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family, friends, and supporting our sailors at this difficult time.”
We will bring you further updates once made available.
