Bristol Channel offers heavy weather
The bowsprit and topmast of a brand new Bristol Channel Pilot cutter, Morwenna 45ft, broke in heavy seas during her sailing trials. On her first full day out, after owner acceptance trials, the bowsprit got deeply buried in a very large confused sea in the Bristol Channel and both bowsprit and topmast broke under the pressure.
The crew recovering the pieces and headed for Padstow. Four days later a new bowsprit and topmast were made and fitted.
Morwenna will compete in The Fastnet Race and will give her crew the chance, on handicap, of emulating the famous victories of Jolie Brise. She is also entered into the Round The Island Race.