Posted by Ross Cossar on August 01, 2003 at 00:12:14 from 204.92.62.135 user rlcossar.
In Reply to: Re: another plot-defining nautical mishap posted by David Bamford on August 01, 2003 at -1:25:37:
Swallow was clipping right along. "She's going faster than a motor boat" said Roger. (probably half a minute prior to the crash). The drama goes on... The boom crashed over but broke no heads. John had been pulling hard on the tiller to keep the Swallow on her course. She was moving very fast. The moment the sail lifted there was nothing to balance the rudder. a moment later and the full force of the wind caught the sail on the other side,not working against the sail but with it. The Swallow spun around out of all control and ran with a loud crash on the Pike rock. the rock stopped her dead. The mast broke off short above the thwart...I have no doubts about the forces of wind water rock and wood. It is a great teaching moment.
Ross