London yachtswoman who died in round the world clipper race buried at sea

The London amateur sailor Sarah Young who died during the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race has been buried at sea, the organisers said in a statement issued Sunday from their headquarters in Gosport.

The decision was taken because of the time it would take the yacht to reach land. It was more than 5,200 kilometers from its destination in the USA.

The crew of the IchorCoal gathered on board for the solemn ceremony led by skipper Darren Ladd.

Sarah Young, the 40-year-old crew member, was tidying the cockpit after reefing the mainsail in 35-40 knots of wind, when she was knocked from her position by a wave. She fell back toward the guard wire and was swept under it by another wave. She was not tethered onto the yacht at this time and was swept away in strong winds.

The incident happened on day 12 of the ninth race in the 14-stage race, as the fleet headed from Qingdao in China across the Pacific Ocean to Seattle, USA. at 39 North, 160 East, approaching the International Date Line.

Although resuscitation was attempted when Young was recovered from the ocean she never regained consciousness.

Crews on the other 11 yachts taking part in the challenge held a minutes silence on board their own yachts as the funeral ceremony took place at 1am UK time.

An official statement issued by the Race Officer stated that following guidance from medical advisors and consultation with the Maritime Coastguard Agency, plus Sarah's partner, friends, family and the crew, the decision was made to proceed with a burial at sea because of the long time it would take to reach closest landfall.

The burial took place in the fleet's current location in the North Pacific.

"Details of the burial at sea ceremony, used for centuries by mariners, were sent to the IchorCoal, along with some personal readings from her loved ones," said the statement.

"We appreciate that this will be a difficult and emotional time for the crew, the entire fleet and the whole Clipper Race family. Our thoughts remain with them all and with Sarah's partner, family and friends at this difficult time. Sarah was much loved, and will be missed deeply by all who knew her."

Readings during the ceremony included The Sailing Ship by Bishop Brent, Sea Fever by John Masefield followed by a committal to the sea.

A full investigation is now being carried out into the full details of the incident in cooperation with the appropriate authorities. Race Officials are now supporting the Skipper and the crew through this tragic ordeal.

It was the second death to occur in the 20-year history of the clipper race, the first tragedy also involving the IchorCoal. Endit