Irish sailor rescued after helping injured rival
AN Irish sailor who was evacuated from his vessel in the Indian Ocean after he raced to save another yachtsman, who was severely injured, has been praised for his bravery.
Dubliner Gregor McGuckin, 32, was almost 3,200km south west of the Australian city of Perth taking part in the Golden Globe Race when his mast broke.
However, he went to the aid of his injured Indian rival Abhilash Tomy. Mr Tomy, whose mast had also broken off during a storm, had suffered a ‘severe back injury’.
The 39-year-old Indian navy commander was ‘incapacitated on his bunk inside his boat’, race organisers said. Yesterday, it was confirmed that Mr McGuckin had been evacuated from his yacht Hanley Energy Endurance. Team Ireland released a statement to say Mr McGuckin was in good condition. ‘Gregor McGuckin and fellow competitor Abhilash Tomy are now onboard the French fisheries patrol vessel Osiris,’ the statement said. ‘McGuckin’s condition is good and has reported nothing more than bumps and bruises.’
The two men were to be taken to Amsterdam Island in the southern Indian Ocean where they would be given a full medical examination. Team Ireland outlined Mr McGuckin’s heroism, managing to steer his damaged vessel close to Mr Tomy’s. Team Ireland expressed its thanks to those who ran the evacuation.
‘Gregor McGuckin’s team, friends and family would like to express their sincere gratitude to all involved in the operation so far,’ a statement said.
It added: ‘Our thoughts are now with Abhilash and his family.’
Mr McGuckin’s actions were commended by race organisers.
The 2018 Golden Globe Race departed Les Sables d’Olonne, France, on July 1. Competitors are aiming to sail solo, nonstop around the world, via the five Great Capes and return to the French port.