RNLI tows yacht in Rolex Fastnet Race to Poole marina

Poole lifeboat was called to assist Swanage RNLI with towing the vessel at 8.20pm on Saturday, July 22.

The 40ft yacht was one of 450 racing from Cowes in the 50th Rolex Fastnet Race.

The event sees participants race from Cowes down to the Fastnet Rock off the southwest coast of Ireland and then to the finish line in Cherbourg.

The RNLI described conditions in the harbour as “lively” with south westerly winds gusting seven to eight with “relentless” heavy rain.

Both lifeboats met at the entrance of Poole Harbour where Poole took over the tow as Swanage volunteers rushed to respond to a ‘Mayday’ callout.

The vessel was then taken to Port of Poole Marina where it was safely moored.

Picture: Poole/RNLI (Image: Poole/RNLI)

The lifeboat then retuned back to station, refuelled, and was made ready for service at 10pm.

Volunteer helm Jonathan Clark said: “With the challenging conditions out their tonight, RNLI lifeboats from Yarmouth, Swanage and Weymouth are being kept very busy, helping to keep people safe and there are a lot of vessels in Poole tonight, seeking safe haven.

“The forecast seems to be quieting down a little tomorrow, we wish all vessels and especially Medallia safe passage in the race down to the rock.”