GEORGE TOWN: A Filipino sailor was injured in a regatta after his yacht was battered by big waves off the waters of Tanjung Tokong here today.
In the 2pm incident, Fire and Rescue Department officials say that the man identified as Mark Elison Villena, 30, and his yacht was 'flipped over’ by the waves.
Rescue teams from the Bagan Jermal Fire and Rescue Department and marine police rushed to the scene some four nautical miles east off the marina at Seri Tanjung Pinang.
Villena was then rushed to the Penang Hospital for treatment. Paramedics say he sustained injuries to his spine and knee. However, he was reported to be stable.
Villena was part of some 30-odd teams participating in the nine-day Raja Muda Selangor International Regatta, organised by the Royal Selangor Yacht Club.
According to the regatta's website, inshore races were taking place off the waters of Penang today. Tomorrow, the yachting teams leave for Langkawi for the last leg of the race.