A crewman taking part in the Cape to Rio race has died as gales dismasted his boat
A crewman taking part in the Cape to Rio race has died and others were injured as a storm dismasted their yacht Bille.
Gales caused damage to at least seven boats in the yacht race from South Africa to Brazil.
The death and injuries were reported on Sunday, only a day after the competition began in Cape Town.
South Africa’s National Sea Rescue told Bloomberg News: “Various other yachts suffered damaged in what is reported as conditions of up to eight-metre swells and up to 60 knot gale force winds”.
It is believed that the fleet of 36 vessels had sailed into rough waters around 86 miles from the start.
Bille’s skipper suffered broken ribs as a result of the storm while doctors treated another crew member for cuts.
Six other yachts also taking part in the race reported broken rudders, flooded engines and communication breakdowns.
Rescue helicopters and vessels were called to assist with the emergencies as a number of boats made their way back to shore.
This year’s event is the 14th edition of the race, which ends in Rio de Janeiro.
Related articles