Rough Waters, Strong Winds Capsize Sculls at Regatta

Sunday's Head of the Connecticut Regatta in Middletown took a dangerous turn as several sculls capsized in the Connecticut River from rough waters and strong winds, according to Middletown Police.

Several crew boats, occupied by high school and college athletes, just north of Wilcox Island, were turned over, sending 18 members into the cold waters with a strong current.

The Middletown Police Marine Unit, Middletown Fire Department, South District Fire Department, Coast Guard, Cromwell Police, and a civilian watercraft, The Pearl, assisted in the rescue.

Officers removed crew members from the water, some of whom were brought to The Pearl for transport back to the docks at the Canoe Club, according to police. Others remained on police and fire department boats before being transported to the Canoe Club at the the Harbor Park docks.

All crew members were evaluated by Hunters Ambulance personnel at the Canoe Club. There were no injuries reported and additional medical care was not necessary, police said.

Racing was halted for a period time as the race officials assessed the water conditions. Eventually the race course was shortened for safety reasons. Several races were also cancelled as a result of the conditions.