MV ‘Tian Fu’ , a Hong Kong flagged vessel, saved Susie Goodall, a British Skipper of ‘DHL Starlight’, after 50 hours vigil on December 7th. Susie sent out EPIRB distress alert from her vessel while competing in the Golden Globe Yacht Race.
Specifically, the rescue operation began on December 5 when Susie warned the HMCG via emergency signals through her ‘DHL Starlight’ vessel which was 2,200nm off the coast of Chile whilst during a competition, as stated above.
Moreover, Susie was keeping contact through a sat phone communications and she managed to inform the Golden Globe Yacht Race HQ that the vessel ‘pitch polled’,rolled end over end, and was dismasted during severe weather of 7m seas and high winds.
The Chilean Coastguard, MRCC Chile, led the search and rescue operation and instantly called upon two nearby vessels to divert their course and help Susie.
During the tense wait, Falmouth Coastguard Operations Centre and the National Maritime Operations Centre also kept a vigil over Susie’s situation and was in regular liaison with the Chilean authorities and Race Control.
The MV ‘Tian Fu’ – a Hong Kong flagged vessel – reached Susie’s vessel at about 1.15pm on December 7 and Susie reported via Satphone text that they reached her. The news were assured by Golden Globe Race HQ and MRCC Chile a few minutes later.
She was uninjured and in good condition. The MV ‘Tian Fu’ is continuing its journey to Punta Arenas where Susie will disembark.
Ian Guy, Duty Controller for the NMOC stated that the situation had many challenges because of the distance Susie’s vessel had from ashore and the weather.
Finally, Don McIntyre, Golden Globe Race Chairman and Race Founder highlighted that the collaboration between the coast guards was professional and helpful.