GMM: The Waikiki Roughwater race is world famous, attracting the best of the best in open-water competition. Up to a thousand swimmers participate annually.
Saturday, during the race, an escort boat drifted too far into the course. The boat's driver noticed he was in an unsafe area, the path of swimmers, quickly made a turn and hit a Northern California man. The boat's propller partially severed the swimmer's hand.
Propeller injuries aren't common, but they occur enough for laws to be passed to prevent more injuries. The United States doesn't have enforceable laws on the books, but countries like Australia do, forcing boat-owners to put propeller guards, metal hoods or cages, around prop blades.
Prop guards slow boats down, but, during an open-water race, they may be the best option to ensure safety.
Prop guards cost less than $400.
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