CAPSIZE OF YACHTS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXXIII, Issue 22345, 17 February 1936, Page 10

CAPSIZE OF YACHTS

BEACHING OF MELITA MISHAPS IN SATURDAY'S RACES The 22ft. L class boat Melita. owned by Mr. A. W. Donald, jun., of Takapuna, capsized off North Head on Saturday afternoon, while taking part in the Victoria Cruising Club's race for L class boats. A fresh north-easterly wind was blowing and when spinnakers were brought into use the crews in the various boats had some anxious moments. Tho wind at times was equally and off North Head Melita experienced an extra heavy squall. This caused her spinnaker to sky and before the light sail could be lowered tho yacht capThe launch Nyria, owned by Mr. F. W. Jeffers, of Herne Bay, who was proceeding to Itangitoto, immediately went to the assistance of the crew, who were clinging to the yacht. Mr, Jeffers attached a line to the Melita and managed to tow her clear of the rocks. Unfortunately the towline snapped and the yacht settled on the ledge of a bank. The boat was now partly submerged and remained in that position throughout the night. The crew stood by ashore, and yesterday hauled her on to the beach at Cheltenham. Tho yacht sustained no damage. The 14ft. Y class boat Avenger and the 12ft. 6in. Z class boat Waterbeetle also capsized, while competing in the races for their classes on Saturday afternoon. Both crews were rescued.