Sailor dies after being swept overboard during Round the World Race

A sailor has died after being swept overboard while competing in the Clipper Round The World Yacht Race.

Sarah Young, 40, a company owner from London, was washed into the sea by a wave as she tended to the mainsail aboard the IchorCoal boat and was swept away in strong winds.

The incident took place in the mid-north Pacific at around 1.44pm Irish time. Miss Young's body was recovered by her crew who tried to resuscitate her, but she never regained consciousness, a race spokeswoman said.

The cause of death is yet to be confirmed but is thought to be drowning or exposure. All other crew members are safe and well.

Race organisers said a full investigation will now be carried out, as is standard practice, in cooperation with the appropriate authorities.

Clipper Race founder Sir Robin Knox-Johnston, said: "On behalf of everyone at Clipper Ventures, I am deeply saddened by the loss of Sarah. She was a very popular and integral member of the Clipper Race family and knew our boats well, having sailed with us since London last summer.

"The safety of our crew has always been and continues to be our main priority and we shall investigate the incident immediately in full cooperation with the authorities."