Union Hall RNLI came to the aid of two sailors after their yacht suffered rigging damage during a race off the West Cork coast on Tuesday evening. The volunteer crew launched their inshore lifeboat at 8.53 pm following a request from the Irish Coast Guard. The incident occurred around seven miles south of Glandore Harbour.
The sailors were taking part in a race when the rigging in the foresail of their 6.5-metre yacht was damaged, leaving the vessel disabled. The inshore lifeboat, helmed by Tim Forde and crewed by Ríona Casey, Michael Limrick and Cathal Deasy, was launched and proceeded to the scene.
Conditions at the time were favourable, with a Force 2-3 south-westerly breeze and slight to moderate seas.
On arrival, the RNLI crew found both sailors safe and well and wearing lifejackets. While the yacht was still making progress under mainsail alone, the crew determined it would be unable to enter harbour safely without assistance. The lifeboat escorted the yacht to the harbour entrance before establishing a tow for the final stage of the passage into sheltered waters.
Speaking after the call-out, Union Hall RNLI helm Tim Forde praised the sailors' decision to seek help. “We would like to wish both sailors all the best as they continue in their race today,” he said. “They made the right call last night when they knew they were in difficulty and wouldn’t be able to make safe onward progress.”
Forde also reminded mariners to prepare carefully before heading afloat. “We would encourage anyone planning a trip to sea to always go prepared. Always wear a lifejacket, always carry a means of communication and always let someone know where you are going and when you are due back,” he said. “Should you get into difficulty or see someone else in trouble, call 999 or 112 and ask for the Coast Guard.”
