DECISION of CASE 6 – COMPLAINT OF 2 February 2013 –
RACE COMMITTEE AGAINST VIRBAC PAPREC 3
Findings
After suffering the loss of her keel on January 21, Virbac-Paprec 3 still carried on the race and continues sailing towards the finish line.
January 30, weather forecasts indicate winds of 30 to 35 knots in the Bay of Biscay. VP3 skipper decided to find shelter and wait for easier conditions for crossing the Bay of Biscay, to avoid capsizing or overturning.
Approaching the port of San Ciprian, JPD unsealed the engine and anchors, anticipating possible difficulties while he was mooring to a buoy.
When mooring up in the morning of January 31, JPD usedengine taken for 3-4 minutes to facilitate the maneuver.
VP3 remain moored until February 3, 7:20 Z deciding to sail again towards the finish in Les Sables d'Olonne.
Conclusion
The skipper made all docking maneuvers and starting on his own and did not receive outside aid.
In breaking the seals then using the engine at its mooring to a buoy, VP3 violated Articles 13.2 and 13.3 of the Notice of Race.
Using the engine only to secure the docking maneuver and during a very short time (3-4 minutes), the skipper acted as good seaman and did not benefit from his breach of the articles cited above.
The jury concluded that VP3 is a minor offense.
Decision
Under the Notice of Race 11.2.6 (a), the jury decided not to award a penalty to VP3.
February 3, 2013
The International Jury
Bernard Bonneau (FRA), Ana Sanchez (ESP), Trevor Lewis (GBR), Jack Lloyd (NZL; Georges Priol (FRA)
