At 1648hrs (GMT+1) the skipper of Oman Air Majan, Sidney Gavignet called to say that his boat has suffered a major damage to the leeward front beam. Oman Air Majan was sailing in headwinds of 20 knots, but the conditions were not extreme. Sidney Gavignet has activated his distress beacon. He has put on his survival suit and is uninjured. He is in the central pod and is clear of the water. Course Director Jean Maurel is in contact with the Portuguese MRCC to coordinate the rescue and is in permanent contact with Sidney and his shore team.