Disney, Sangmeister back on land after rescue in Transpac
SAN DIEGO (AP) — Friends and sailing rivals Roy Disney and John Sangmeister were back on land Tuesday rather than racing toward Hawaii after Disney’s crew rescued Sangmeister’s crew from its sinking yacht in the 50th Transpac Race.
Disney’s Pyewacket returned to Marina del Rey near Los Angeles about 24 hours after picking up Sangmeister’s crew from OEX in the dark some 200 miles off the coast.
“Rule No. 1 in the Racing Rules of Sailing is save lives. It’s not even a question,” said Disney, the grandnephew of Walt Disney.
“We’re extremely grateful for the crew of Pyewacket for their superb seamanship, gracious welcome and extra kindness at a moment in need,” said Sangmeister, who was part of Dennis Conner’s winning America’s Cup campaign in 1986-87 and sailed again with Conner in 1992.
OEX began taking on water after its rudder post was damaged.
