A British amateur sailor has died after being hit as he adjusted a sail while competing in a round-the-world yacht race.
The death of Andrew Ashman, 49, is the first in the 20-year history of the Clipper race, in which 12 yachts under the command of experienced professionals sail around the world from London.
Ashman was adjusting the sail of his team’s boat when he was knocked unconscious by the mainsheet – a heavy rope – and possibly the boom.
He received medical treatment at the scene but never regained consciousness, said race organiser Clipper Ventures.
The family of Ashman, who was a paramedic from Orpington, Kent, have been informed.
Clipper race founder Sir Robin Knox-Johnston said: “This is extremely sad news and my heart goes out to his bereaved family and friends, and to his fellow crew who have come to know Andrew with great affection during his training and the early days of this race.
“Safety is always our utmost priority, as our record shows, and we shall investigate the incident immediately in full co-operation with the authorities.”
Ashman was an experienced yachtsman, according to race organisers, who has sailed since he was 16.
His colleagues at the London Ambulance Service hazardous area response team paid tribute, tweeting: “Our thoughts and prayers to our old friend and colleague Andrew Ashman. R.I.P Buddy”.
His boat was about 120 nautical miles off the Portuguese coast heading towards Brazil in the first leg of the race when the incident happened.
It was just after midnight and the vessel was in moderate seas when it was hit by a force six strong breeze (between 24 and 30 mph) as Ashman reached to adjust the sail.
Anyone over the age of 18 with a good level of fitness can take part in the 40,000-mile race.
Its website emphasises the fact that it is a challenge taken on by “ordinary, everyday people”.
