Tony remained conscious throughout the incident and is in a stable and comfortable condition onboard.

New York has stopped racing and is currently heading back towards Durban in approximately 30 knots of wind. At 15:30 GMT New York was 220 miles south east of Durban.

The South African Coastguard is currently looking at the best option for transferring Tony safely to shore. The rest of the crew is safe and well.

Joff Bailey, Race Director: “Obviously we don’t wish this type of incident to ever happen, however, when sailing these powerful machines across the oceans of the world it is always a possibility.  Our training teaches the crew to be safe onboard, clipping on and always looking out for each other. From talking to the skipper the wave that washed over the boat was very big and unfortunately Tony banged his head as he was washed across the cockpit.  We have a tried and tested incident management plan that I activated as soon as we were informed of the incident. Tony is in very good hands and the MRCC in Cape Town is managing the situation very professionally. They are currently investigating a rescue boat rendezvousing with New York when they get closer to the coast. We are in regular contact with the boat and are monitoring their progress back towards the South African coast.’