Penalty points for Race 5 collision damage

Race Director Justin Taylor has informed GREAT Britain skipper Simon Talbot of the Clipper Race Committee’s decision to levy a two-point penalty against the team in relation to the damage caused to the yacht in a racing incident shortly after the start of Race 5 from Albany to Sydney on 3 December. 

Justin Taylor said: “This is in relation to the collision just after the start of Race 5 and is allowed for in the Clipper Race’s Sailing Instructions. This is a separate decision from the one made by the CYCA protest committee who found in favour of PSP Logistics and awarded them redress based on average points from the previous four races. GREAT Britain was disqualified at the same hearing by the Protest Committee.

“A penalty is appropriate in these circumstances in line with Clipper Race Sailing Instruction 29 in relation to boat damage.”

The affect of this penalty is to reduce GREAT Britain’s overall points to 39, but it remains in fifth place on the leader board.