Whale collision during yacht race

The lieutenant governor's son was not hurt in the collision

The son of the lieutenant governor of Guernsey has hit a whale during a round the world yacht race.

Sir Fabian Malbon's son Jonny is taking part in the Vendee Globe, as the single-handed skipper of Artemis.

The yacht was travelling at more than 15 knots when it collided with the whale on Monday in the South Atlantic.

"The boat stopped dead in the water, and remained there for about a minute until the animal released itself from the daggerboard," Malbon said.

Maiden race

The skipper was unharmed in the collision, but his shore manager, Graham Tourell, said some damage was done to the boat.

"Luckily it's only damaged the starboard dagger board, but it hasn't compromised the structure of the boat," Mr Tourell said.

The Vendee Globe, which is a non-stop race covering an average of 27,000 miles (43,452km), got under way on 9 November.

It is the first time that Malbon, who is currently in 17th position, has taken part in the race.

Sir Fabian told BBC News his son had always been very determined and while he was worried about him, he also realised how strong willed he is.

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