In 55 years of sailing, the only times I've needed or wanted help were on capsized racing dinghies, the last time 2 weeks ago after half a dozen capsizes in a Lazer in a wind gusting to 8, I was quite pleased to get a tow home, They are buggers for death rolls when you get hit by big gusts, the boom bends so much that the leech goes soft and the head od of the main frees and rolls you in to weather (Enterprizes are famous for it too!)

During all those years, I've consistently pushed boats as hard as I can, broken loads of masts, wrecked gear and run aground etc etc and I can promise everyone, while there's breath in my body I'll continue in that manner.

BUT I'm not expecting anyone to come and help me - that's the whole point - I'm pushing myself and my boat to the edge of my envelope, its my problem to get myself out of any situations I get myself into.

If I even thought someone was there guarding over me, there'd be no challenge, no envelope and therefore no point in doing it.

I'm reminded that Sir Peter Scott, he of the wild fowl, Sailing Silver Medalist in the 36 Olympics, helmsman in the America's Cup, inventor of the Trapeze (Int 14's in the 30s) and son of Scott of the Antactic, gave up sailing as he felt it didn't push him hard enough and took up gliding! Perhaps if we get over regulated at sea that's what we all need to do - a nice thermal over Heathrow's concrete ought to get the adrenaline pumping fairly hard!

Please please lets not have any more regulation or attempts to stifle such events as the RTIR. It was a fantastic event and whilst there are risks and calls made to the Coastguard overall it and other similar events should be encouraged. It gets our sport noticed, creates opportunity and employment, encourages competition and enables those who don’t normally race to enjoy the participation along with seasoned and celebrities alike,

I suggest if really concerned we ask members of the RNLI and coastguard what their opinion of it is. On a more general note I also suggest that by pushing the boundaries of sailing and racing better and safer products result. Out of the ’79 Fastnet tragedy I suspect many lives have since been saved as a result.

Unfortunatetly PC has entered into what RNLI and CG staff are allowed to say regarding matters like this...

W.

Just been reading The Crossing-that was James Cracknell(rower) and Ben Fogles winning row across Atlantic in 2005/6.

Except one of them nearly died in attempt.Boat turned over-no lifejacket,not clipped on;no personal epirbs- despite high levels of safety in boat itself-self righting.

Then one sat phone waterlogged;standby with flat batteries and wrong charger;onboard GPS waterlogged and emergency hand held which they clearly didnt know how to use.

As for accompanying rescue boats nearest was 700 miles away.

Do not blame the guys themselves but organisers who as I recall were obsessed with unneeded VHF licences.Also some sponsor/promoter-recall BBC were involved who thought a couple of celebs. including someone experienced at rowing on the Thames could just do it!

They were just very lucky!

A bit like  individuals who man haul sledges in the nude whilst blindfold to the south pole-if you get my drift.

Push it to limits of course but not if in the final estimation you can only do it because you know someone will bail you out-that is come to your rescue.

I have no problem with if for eg.If your mast breaks then cut it away and limp home BUT those who expect a tow from the RNLI in these circumstances!! or Coastguards to coordinate an airlift for someone who has broken his arm whilst racing!-that should be sole responsibilty of event organisers/competitors.

Phil 

In toal agreement Phil.

If people want an AA or RAC service you have to pay - quite reasonable. That's not what the RNLI is there for although I rather think some people think that's what it is!

Life & death situation then make that call, otherwise depend on your own resources!