YACHTING MISHAPS.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXVI, Issue 20241, 29 April 1929, Page 10

YACHTING MISHAPS.

WINDWARD LOSES MAST. CAPSIZE OF THF, SCEPTRE. The keel yatch AVindward, owned by Mr. M. D. Gra yson, carried away her mast while competing in the official closing races of the yachting season on Saturday afternoon. When the yachts started a moderate breeze was blowing from the north-east and most of the boats carried topsails. After reaching the Rangitoto Channel the wind increased in strength and the skipper of the Windward decided to lower the topsail. One of her crew, Mr. S. Colvilie, went aloft , and was taking the lashing off the gaff when the cross-trees doubled tip and, without warning, the mast snapped off about 10ft. above the deck. Mr. Colville was thrown overboard and fortunately missed the deck. He was smartly picked up and after recovering from shock helped the crew to clear the wreckage.

Tho yacht Ladye Wilma, owned and sailed by Mr K. Lidgard, immediately went to (lie assistance of the Winchvard. A lino was passed to the Windward and lieiped by the strong breeze Ladye Wilma (owed her charge to her moorings in Mechanics' Bay. Tha yacht Scout also withdrew from the raco and stood by the Windward, but her services were not required.

Competing in the race for 16ft. open and half-decked boats tho Sceptre capsized near Dovunport wharf. Mr. Iv. L. Stewart's launch Duchess went to the assistance of tlie crew and towed the Sceptro into Stanley Bay.