Thanks to George from the RNLI for this update, in his own words.
Cowes RNLI lifeboat was today tasked to go to the aid of a man who had suffered a suspected heart attack while taking part in a yacht race in the Solent.
The man, from London, was aboard the Cowes-based 40 foot La Response, participating in a race organised by the Royal Corinthian Yacht Club at Cowes.
Alarm raised just after 1pm
The alarm was raised with Solent Coastguards just after 1pm when the yacht was in the vicinity of South Ryde Middle Buoy.
The lifeboat, with Patrick Moreton at the helm, was racing to the scene when hailed by a five metre RIB; it had already taken the man aboard.
The lifeboat proceeded to escort the RIB to Trinity Landing on Cowes Parade where the man, who was conscious, was given oxygen by a lifeboat member. He was then taken by ambulance to St Mary’s Hospital, Newport.
The lifeboat had been away from its mooring at Shepards Wharf Marina for just over half an hour.
