On the Sailing Anarchy front page this link: Man 'dragged under boat in race' http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/wales/7255859.stm
Horrible to think about, hope it never happens to anyone close to me. Which current emergency release hook is reliable enough to use?

Part of the problem is, it sounds like he may have taken a bonk on the head, in which case it may not have made any difference with a quick release.

Well, this topic has been covered in pretty lengthy detail here, especially after the rule changes to require this (which have been delayed from implementation).

I'm certainly not claiming to be an expert, but it seems one of the best solutions is the ball/socket device (Key Hole), which is for sale on this site.

There are pros and cons to all the options, but it seems that every year people die from getting trapped by a trapeze hook. Not sure that a rule would change that, things unfortunately happen.

Mike

Been using the Bethwaite Keyball setup for a couple of years now...I like it. Toughest part is convincing new crew to give it a try. We can easily swap back to the hooks & rings if needed, so no biggie.

A friend has one of the standard hooks, with a quick relase mount, which sent him swimming when the release was premature.

I know it's not popular, but I use the seat only harnesses (no over the shoulder/neck kind), and feel I can quickly click out of it if my hook got snagged. Much harder to do on a full harness, with a limited breath, the forces of being pinned with a bouyancy device, etc.

Even in the long on the wire races (great TX 300), etc., I find my crotchless harness with the spreader bar very comfy.

But, I do think the ball and socket style is a GREAT option, with superior safety, etc.