SailRaceWin is shocked to learn that Britain's double Olympic Star class medallist Andrew "Bart" Simpson has died as a result of Artemis Racing's AC72 capsize. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of Bart and Artemis Racing. A big, kind-hearted man, Bart was a friend to all who love sailing.
Report from Artemis Racing:
It is with immense sadness that Artemis Racing confirms the tragic death of crew member Andrew “Bart” Simpson today in San Francisco.
Andrew Simpson, a British Olympic gold and silver medallist, was one of the 11-man crew aboard Artemis Racing’s AC72 catamaran which capsized during training on San Francisco Bay ahead of this summer’s America’s Cup. All other crew members are accounted for.
Simpson, however, was trapped underneath the boat and despite attempts to revive him, by doctors afloat and subsequently ashore, his life was lost.
“The entire Artemis Racing team is devastated by what happened,” said CEO Paul Cayard. “Our heartfelt condolences are with Andrew’s wife and family.”
Video of the capsized AC72 on San Francisco Bay:
Artemis Racing
SailRaceWin understands that kiwi Olympic bronze medallist in the Finn from 1992, Craig Monk, also received injuries to his neck in the capsize of the Artemis AC72, which is believed to be related to construction/structural issues. We wish Craig, whose injuries are not life-threatening, a speedy recovery.
Statement from ORACLE TEAM USA: "Today is a sad day for all of us in the sailing community. Andrew Simpson was a great person, a terrific sailor, and a good friend to all of our team. Our thoughts are with his family and the entire Artemis team. He will be dearly missed." - ORACLE TEAM USA
Statement from Luna Rossa Challenge 2013: "Team Luna Rossa is devastated and shocked for what happened to Artemis and expresses its deepest condolences to Andrew’s family, a friend and a sportsman that no one of us will ever forget."
America's Cup
