Tragedy on Marion Bermuda Race

(June 21, 2015; Day 3) – One of the sailors on the 2015 Marion to Bermuda Race now in progress has died of natural causes.

On Saturday night, June 20, the 54-foot Alden ketch Legacy V reported that crewman Bill Fasnacht of Mystic, CT fell over unconscious. The crew tried CPR for an hour, used the onboard defibrillator and all other methods at hand but without success. The boat, owned by Michael Wiseman of Stonington, CT, is returning home to the USA.

Marion to Bermuda Cruising Yacht Race Executive Director, , speaking on behalf of the entire group of organizers and volunteers from Beverly Yacht Club, The Blue Water Sailing Club and the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club said,

“We extend our deepest sympathy to Mr. Fasnacht’s wife Betsy Bowman and all of his family, crew mates and friends,” shared Allan McLean, Bermuda Cruising Yacht Race Executive Director. “We will fly our flags at half-mast in his memory and also have a moment of silence in his memory before the Prizegiving Saturday night. We wish safe voyages to all of our other friends at sea.”

For a look at wind and current predictions, go to PassageWeather.com

Race website: www.marionbermuda.com

Report by Talbot Wilson.

Background: The 20th edition of the Marion to Bermuda Race attracted 45 boats which started the 645 nm contest on Friday, June 19. Since its inception in 1977, the biennial race seeks to appeal to a broad range of cruising and racing enthusiasts. The spirit of the race is one focused on Family and Fun, and all yachts and crew are participating for the joy and pleasure of sailing, competition, and the camaraderie that accompanies an offshore event. The race is sponsored by Beverly Yacht Club, The Blue Water Sailing Club and the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club.