the right to contest Victory IV in the Jubilee Cup turned to near disaster in Hamilton Harbour.

After splitting the first two races of the best-of-three series Port Royal , skippered by Brett Wright, was almost dissected by a passing pleasure craft as the pair set off in the rubber match.

The result of the collision was a cracked bowsprit aboard the gleaming yellow craft and, rather than risk further damage, racing had to be postponed.

Yesterday, crewman Jonathan White lashed out at absent-minded boaters who failed to use caution when approaching the less manoeuvrable sailboats.

"People that don't have a clue about sailing shouldn't be out there,'' said White, still steaming over the incident. "`One thing you never do is pass close to the front of a sailboat, especially a dinghy.

"`We were sailing off White's Island and went to tack and as we tacked they (other boat) just ploughed into us and hit and bent the head of the bowsprit and made a hairline crack.

"The person was just out there ambling along without a clue as to what was going on.'' White said that hasty repairs would have to be made by Sunday when it is hoped that the two Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club representative craft will finish the series and be ready to contest the Jubilee Cup later that day.

Three races are scheduled for Sunday, with the Victory Cup and Leon D. Fox Trophy also up for grabs.

The first race is scheduled for 11 a.m., followed by the second at 2 p.m. and the Jubilee Cup at 4 p.m.

However, sailors will be keeping a close eye on the weather and postponement might be necessary if Hurricane Luis continues on its current path. Reports last night indicated the storm would be some 200 nautical miles west of the Island by late Saturday.