Rad dismasted as winds batter L2H fleet

Three more yachts have retired from the Riversdale Estate Wines L2H ocean race as near galeforce winds batter the fleet off Tasman Island and in Storm Bay.

Rad, from Kettering Yacht Club, was dismasted off Tasman Island about 05:30 this morning in 30-40 knot north-westerly winds. At 04:40, Tasman Island recorded a gust of 66 knots. All the crew of Rad are OK and the yacht is motoring to Port Arthur. Rad had been third in fleet as she rounded Tasman Island.

Mischief and Illusion have also retired and are heading into Dunalley. 
Meanwhile, The Fork in the Road and Tilt continue to battle their way across Storm Bay with The Fork in the Road edging ahead in the duel for line honours. Their ETA is mid-morning.

Philosopher is now third in fleet, Filepro fourth and Heatwave fifth.

Words: Peter Campbell
Photo: Peter Watson
08:00/29 December 2018