Cape to Rio race headquarters update 2pm 6/1/2014

"RCYC General Manager, Marcus Reuter, boarded SAS Islandwana last night as they set sail for the fleet to assist yacht Bille. Communications with SAS Islandwana have been constant and accurate and the report from Marcus were “Islandwana crew have been so professional”. The majority of the fleet were still suffering rough sea conditions last night with poor visibility and a lot of rain this morning.  The current situation on the following yachts: BILLE – All crew of have now been transferred to SAS Islandwana. Two reported injured crew, the skipper with broken ribs and one crew member with lacerations. Both have been tended to by a medical doctor and all are stable and now sleeping.Then navy managed to clear all damaged rigging and have the left the vessel to return to later. Once crew were secured, SAS Islandwana immediately left the area to go to assist yacht AVA. AVA – We have just had a report from SAS Islandwana that they have spotted yacht in very poor visibility. AVA sailing without power and communications but all well on board. SAS Islandwana now on their way to yacht Isla. ISLA reported late last night they were taking on water in the engine compartment and had an electrical fire. They have had a container vessel Bosun, standing by for assistance since early this morning. All is under control and although they originally took the decision to sail back to port now Smit Madura is on station with yacht Isla possibly to tow them back to port. BLACK CAT – NSRI Station 3 are on route to tow her back to shore due to no steerage from a broken rudder. INDABA – On it’s way back to port with on injured crew member. PEEKAY safely in harbour at Yachtport. DO DO, AVOCET, AVANTI & FTI Flyer – are currently heading back to shore. Tranquillo are only able to receive calls, otherwise all well.