Ruth Harvey’s claims that she suffered sexual discrimination and harassment while taking place in the Clipper round-the-world yacht race have been rejected by the courts
Clipper sailor Ruth Harvey has failed in an attempt to sue Sir Robin Knox-Johnston and race organisers over sexual discrimination and harassment claims.
The 50-year-old, who is an employment law specialist, had her case thrown out of court after trying to argue that she should be classed as an employee for being part of a crew.
Following a preliminary hearing, the case was rejected over several legal points, including whether Ms Harvey could be classed as an employee and whether Mr Knox-Johnston should be a named defendant.
None of the allegations were directed at Mr Knox-Johnston personally, despite being named on the claim as the founder of Clipper.
Ms Harvey, who raced on board Jamaica Get All Right, paid £40,000 to compete in the annual race but dropped out at the end of October last year.
In a statement Ms Harvey said: “This ruling is a missed opportunity to consider the international law provisions that apply to these kinds of races and to put in place much needed protections for all Clipper crew.
“There is a real need to curb the excesses of the male-dominated sailing culture and it remains a non-inclusive sport.”
While a spokesperson for Clipper Ventures told the Telegraph: “This case should never have been brought following Ms Harvey deciding to leave the race after competing only two of the eight legs around the world.
“It was totally vexatious and without foundation.”
Related articles