[MHml] Ross to the Rescue

[Gary Pearce]

The following from Ross's press release

Press Release - 01 November 2006                                           3
days into the race

Position at 15.00hrs GMT - 45° 37.4'N : 13° 02.8'W



News Flash - Ross Hobson and Ideal Stelrad to the rescue



This afternoon, 300 miles to the North West of Cape Finisterre Ideal Stelrad
and Ross Hobson were involved in a dash to rescue French yachtsman Chalie
Capelle after his trimaran, Switch FR capsized.

At 13.30 GMT, at the request of Falmouth Coastguard, Ideal Stelrad and Ross
Hobson temporarily left the Route du Rhum to assist fellow race competitor
Charlie Capelle after his trimaran Stitch FR capsized suddenly. Having
completely turned around onto a course of 026°T, Ross made swift progress in
rough seas to Switch FR's last known position which was 45° 37.4'N 13°
02.8'W.

Charlie Capelle is thought to have been temporarily trapped underneath his
trimaran for a period of time although he has now escaped and has been
picked up by Philippe Legros (skipper of Cotes d'Armor). .

The whole rescue situation was coordinated by Falmouth Coastguard (Newsroom
02380 329401) in liaison with Penduick, the Route du Rhum race organizers.

Ross Hobson and Ideal Stelrad acted as English coordinators throughout the
rescue and when they have been released by the race organizers and HM
Coastguard they will resume their race where they left off. Ideal Stelrad
will be given a time allowance at the end of the race to compensate for the
time they spent on the rescue.

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