Artemis Racing sailor Andrew Simpson dies in training accident
by Jennifer McHugh, Artemis Racing 10 May 2013 06:44 BST
9 May 2013
It is with immense sadness that Artemis Racing confirms the tragic death of crewmember Andrew 'Bart' Simpson today in San Francisco.
Andrew, a British double Olympic 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 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."
From the RYA
The RYA and British Sailing Team are devastated to confirm the death of Olympic gold and silver medallist Andrew Simpson after a training accident involving his Artemis Racing AC72 boat in San Francisco today.
John Derbyshire, RYA Performance Director:
"We're devastated by the news from San Francisco today. Andrew is someone I've worked closely with since the age of 16 – he was a great talent, and a key figure in our World Class Programme over many years culminating in his well-deserved Olympic success. He was a huge inspiration to others, both within the British Sailing Team and across the nation and our deepest sympathies go out to his family at this terrible time."
Stephen Park, RYA Olympic Manager:
"Andrew was a fantastic sailor who got the best out of everyone he sailed with. He was much loved and will be sorely missed by everyone in our close knit team. Our thoughts today are with Andrew's family."
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."